Caring Carroll Needs You!
"My relationship with my care receiver, "Miss Pat", lasted for over 2-1/2 years. When I first volunteered with Caring Carroll, my goal was to help a care receiver remain independent in their own home and to productively fill-in some of my spare time. What I did not expect was the wonderful relationship that developed between "Miss Pat" and I. Although, age-related physical problems kept Miss Pat from completing the task that she had previously done, her desire to be productive and to enjoy life did not subside. That is where I came in. The two of us fell into a very personal and comfortable relationship. I would take lunch to her every Tuesday and would then spend the rest of the afternoon with her. We did whatever she felt like doing. The afternoon might consist of weeding a garden, planting flowers, going to a movie, sorting through her family pictures, putting up Christmas decorations, making a trip to Walmart, or simply watching old TV shows and visiting. If the weather permitted, her preference was to be outside.
There was an approximate 30 year age difference between us, but she was very knowledgeable about current events, and her memory of past events was very sharp. Her physical limitations were frustrating to her and I am thankful that I could be her "helper". I believe that we all need to view our elder population as a very valuable resource and to appreciate the experiences they can share with us. She was a strong believer in the Catholic faith, who loved life and her family dearly. The simplest things made her happy. It was very rewarding to learn that giving just a little bit of time and energy can make an incredible difference in someone's life. I feel privileged to have known her and hope that she enjoyed our time together as much as I did."
L.D. 11/18
Some volunteers are retired or work part-time, and have time during the day to make a friendly visit or drive someone to an appointment. Some are stay-at-home moms who volunteer while their kids are in school. Some are college students looking for some real world experience. Others are parents who want to volunteer with their kids. Kids in 6th grade and up can earn service hours. Many volunteers work full-time but help with small home repairs or yard work chores on the weekends.
*All volunteers must attend a volunteer training and submit to a criminal background check*
Caring Carroll helps meet the following non-medical needs of our care receivers, including:
✦Friendly Visits
✦Shopping/Errands
✦Light Meal Prep
✦Light Housekeeping
✦Yard work
✦Minor Home Repairs
✦In-County Transportation (Healthcare & Basic Needs)
Reassuring Social Phone Calls
Most volunteers are matched with someone who lives close to them, so it's convenient and easy to volunteer. Other volunteers choose to help multiple care receivers with one-time tasks when they have free time. Volunteering with Caring Carroll is flexible and rewarding! You determine your own availability. Volunteers must be adults 18 and over. Groups and families are welcome.
Many more people are waiting for help – for a ride to the doctor, help with housekeeping, or just a friendly visit. Caring Carroll wants to help – but we can’t do it without you! If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, or volunteering with your church or youth group, please contact Becky Smith at 410-775-5596 or email caringcarrollinc@gmail.com.
If you would like more information about volunteering with Caring Carroll, please click here.
Click here for information on our volunteer training sessions.
Volunteering with Caring Carroll
