SUMMER - A GREAT TIME TO VOLUNTEER

BY CHERYL LEDGERWOOD

t The Glebe Centre, July and August bring sunny days and warm weather and an increased need for volunteers. Whether helping with resident activities as regular volunteers take their holidays or with special summer activities, caring and committed volunteers are critical to success of programs promoting physical, mental and social wellness of our 265 residents.

Indoor and outdoor walks and friendly visiting offer a great degree of flexibility for those limited or varied time availability. Small and large activities, weekday mornings afternoons, as well as some evenings and Saturday morning, require regular commitment but offer a wide range of possibilities.

Opportunities are numerous. Here are just some:

• twice a month on Mondays to escort frailer residents on van trips;
• Thursday afternoons, help with crafts and baking;
• talking about events past and current and discussing of kinds of topics are needed for the "Tea and Chats" on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday;
• playing one-on-one games like cards or puzzles would be very welcome;
• work with residents to establish and maintain balcony gardens;
• a group of three or four to host a monthly resident tea;
• help with Monday & Friday morning stretching and strength classes for our most frail residents
• help with Tuesday morning sing-a-longs
• host Wednesday evening informal social
• "Mom and Tot" team for a special program of baking, games and reading.

While volunteers are needed and recruited on an ongoing basis, because of the time required to screen, orient and place volunteers, anyone wishing to volunteer over the summer months should call by June 23 to schedule an interview and orientation date.

For more information or to schedule an interview, call Cheryl Ledgerwood, Volunteer Services, 239-2727 ext. 323.