Caring as a Village

In his Presidential Proclamation declaring November National Family Caregivers Month, President Barack Obama said "Across our country, millions of family members, neighbors, and friends provide care and support for their loved ones during times of need. With profound compassion and selflessness, these caregivers sustain American men, women, and children at their most vulnerable moments, and through their devoted acts, they exemplify the best of the American spirit."

Elders Village agrees that it can "take a village" to help care for someone during their times of greatest need, and we would like to recognize all those who do give of themselves on a regular basis to help their friends and family who need assistance. It is hard work and most definitely a labor of love; the work you do is amazing.

But what about those who have no family near? Or those who are hesitant to offer help because they fear embarrassing the recipient? That is the idea driving the development of our community. Forming our own village of people who know the importance of helping others in their time of need and who similarly acknowledge that they themselves may one day (or perhaps now) need help with some things. The purpose of coming together to create this village is to better develop the circle of people in our community who are willing to help one another or who are simply looking to spend time with others.

Just remember, everyone has something to offer - an afternoon's conversation, a helping hand at the grocery store, or explaining the intricacies of facebook. And, at some point everyone needs help with something.