Nonprofit takes older adults on their errands
Verde Valley Caregivers Coalition provides accessible transportation and programs to support older adults.
Through several programs, organizers of the Sedona nonprofit help older adults maintain their independence and quality life at home. Their transportation program takes seniors to health care appointments, grocery shopping and social events free of charge to them.
Executive Director Kent Ellsworth said the coalition provides more than 30,000 trips to 2,000 older adults and individuals unable to drive due to health conditions. The service involves the support of 300 volunteers.
Verde Valley Caregivers Coalition received a $10,000 Season for Sharing grant for the program last year. To contact the organization, visit its website at www.vvcaregivers.org or call 928-2041238.
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How was the program
VVCC engages volunteers from all areas of the Verde Valley and Sedona region to assist seniors who need assistance with transportation and other minor supports to continue to live in their home and community of choice.
We have a small staff dedicated to coordinating the work of our volunteers through our call center. VVCC delivers approximately 900 services each week to seniors in need.
How many individuals does your nonprofit help each year?
A total of 2,000 seniors each year, the average age is 86 years old and we currently serve 15 seniors over 100 years old.
How do you gauge your success? We complete a pre- and post-survey for our clients. We measure well-being and changes in their ability to access health care services and their ability to continue living in their home.
❚ Use the coupon on Page 4A of The Arizona Republic and mail donations to P.O. Box 29250, Phoenix, AZ 850389250.
❚ Text “sharing” to 91-999 and click on the link in the text message.
❚ Click on the “donate” button at facebook.com/seasonforsharing.
Where the money goes
One hundred percent of donations and matching funds go to nonprofits primarily located in Maricopa and Pinal counties, but also around the state, that supports teachers and students, help struggling families and aid older Arizonans. Last year, $2.1 million was raised and given back to 162 charities. All overhead and fundraising costs are paid by The Arizona Republic/azcentral.com.
Support our supporters
❚ Nina Mason Pulliam Trust provides Season for Sharing matching funds. ninapulliamtrust.org.
To become a supporter, contact Season for Sharing director Stacy Sullivan, ssullivan@azcentral.com or 602-4448749.
How have?
We have 10 paid employees. What is your greatest need? Our greatest need is to have the capacity to provide more trips and other services as the need for our services grows. We need additional funds to support transportation expenses, recruit 50 or more new volunteers and purchase an additional accessible vehicle.
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