ON THE NORTHSIDE
Columnist Dona Benac says the Northside Guest Home is a bright and vibrant place.
Years ago, the old St Joseph’s School had a choir of junior and senior high students, and the older girls were recruited to volunteer at the “Old People’s Home” (the former Hamilton Hospital on Convent Street).
Their job was to deliver supper trays to the rooms, not a difficult task but one that was not enjoyed by most of us. Why? The rooms were dark and gloomy, they smelled bad and the “old” people were mad and cranky, or so we thought. Looking back now, I think they were sad and lonely people living in dark rooms with no company.
Now fast forward to the Northside Guest Home, a bright and vibrant place where not all the residents are old, music and laughter are encouraged, and volunteers are eager to take part in daily activities. Kelly Carter says that without the hundreds of people who offer their time and talent it would be a different story.
The recreation department has a small staff — Kelly Carter, Diane MacInnis, Tina Swain, Courtney Dearing and Kelly Hennessey — and they could not do all that takes place here. The guest home foundation and the ladies auxiliary are groups that primarily raise money with fundraisers of all kinds, including a gala, which allows activities to continue. All members are volunteers.
Individuals come out regularly to entertain, to visit, read, take people to church, have bible study, deliver communion, play cards, etc. Other activities are bingo, quilting, painting, pet therapy, library and gardening. Having these activities means having a link to the community.
Seasonal activities need volunteers as well, barbecues, lobster boils, Hawaiian day, decorating for holidays — the list goes on. There are no dark corners at the guest home.
Some of the residents are volunteers as well. Residents in assisted living do baking classes, lead the rosary, and make things for other residents. One lady knits fidget muffs for Alzheimer’s patients. It’s like an old-fashioned winter muff with extra things attached, so when the person feels inside they can fidget, something that many find soothing.
Youth groups play an important role in the guest home as well. What cheers someone up like a young happy face saying hello? Brownies, Sparks, Munro Academy, dancers, community college and co-op students and others visit and help in any way they can. Some groups come with handmade cards to pass out. These are treasured beyond words. In turn, the residents sometimes have a little “stash” of treats that they share with the young visitors.
Kelly says whether people give an hour a week, an hour a day, or an occasional drop-in visit, all volunteers are invaluable. They allow the recreation department to function well. Many volunteers say they get more in return than what they
give. It’s so satisfying to make someone feel better with just a kind word and a smile. If you are interested in volunteering at the guest home, or other facilities, you can speak to staff so they can see what your interests
are and where you can fit in. A police check is needed, which is free.
April is Volunteer Month, and communities are recognizing the many who give to others. The Northside Community
Guest Home has endless praise and a huge thank you for their volunteers. Take Care.