National Volunteer A Special Herald Advertorial Supplement Week April 18, 2021 Making a difference as a Montage Health volunteer After a year without vol- ic, volunteers managed talents.” unteers on site, Montage to make a difference, Montage Health cur- Health is looking forward providing 20,000 hours of rently offers these volun- to welcoming back vol- service virtually, through teer opportunities: unteers and is developing hospice and through Auxiliary — Members new opportunities for Telecare, which provides provide services in a more people who want to free daily check-in calls to range of settings, from give their time in reward- community members. the hospital gift shop ing ways that help meet A call for volunteers to to its mobile clinic that the community’s health help staff our ongoing serves the homeless. needs. COVID-19 vaccine clinics Membership is open During the COVID-19 brought out many existing to adults as well as to pandemic, in-person volunteers, as well as college students and high volunteer services were newcomers who wanted school students 14 or suspended for safety to be part of the commu- older. reasons, and the absence nity’s pandemic recovery Chaplain Services — Therapy dogs and their people, photographed before the pandemic, provide comfort and cheer to patients, visitors, and staff.- Provided photo was definitely noted. efforts. Clergy members provide Volunteers have added With volunteers them- compassion, support, and and Westland House, ably enjoyable, satisfying, staff. That patients and something extra since selves getting vaccinated, sensitivity to patients and providing warm and and rewarding,” Sambar their families are always Community Hospital they have begun returning families at Community fuzzy support. said. “I welcome wonder- gracious, warm, and very of the Monterey Penin- to familiar roles within Hospital and Westland “In addition, we are ful people and work with appreciative.” sula opened, and their Montage Health, as well House, our skilled nurs- developing new oppor- an incredibly dedicated, To learn more about vol- roles have grown over as new ones. ing center. tunities for volunteers skilled, professional, unteer opportunities, visit the years. They support “We’re thrilled to have Hospice of the Central to make a difference caring, and proud group www.montagehealthfoun- patients and staff from the longtime volunteers return Coast — Volunteers pro- beyond the hospital set- of nurses, surgeons, and dation.org/volunteer. Emergency department and to welcome new ones vide comfort, support, ting, such as with Ohana, to surgery services. They to Montage Health,” said and practical services our child and adolescent are ambassadors at the Michele Melicia Young, to patients and their behavioral health pro- front desk and through the director of Montage families. Their work can gram,” Young said. Comforts gift shop and Health , range from driving a Chuck Sambar, an Fountain Court Café. They which oversees Volunteer patient to appointments Auxiliary member since provide pastoral support Services for Montage to providing company or 2016, is looking forward as volunteer chaplains, Health. “The roles they respite to a caregiver. to putting his red coat lift spirits with visits from play are invaluable to our Therapy Dog Program back on and returning to therapy dogs, and patients and to our staff, — Dogs certified by the hospital, where he hospice patients to and and provide the kind of Therapy Dog Interna- formerly staffed the Out- from medical appoint- fulfillment people are tional — accompanied patient Surgery Center ments. usually looking for when by their people — visit Marilyn Bachik, a member of the Auxiliary, volunteers in Community information desk. Hospital’s Comforts gift shop, before the start of the pandemic. Even during the pandem- they give their time and patients at the hospital “My duty is unbeliev- - Provided photo Volunteers strive to continue to help women provided over 180 hours access to vaccines, GFW of service per week. They is pleased to see long-time in need throughout pandemic encouraged volunteers to volunteers beginning to shelter in place throughout return. The goal of the founders the pandemic which meant Thanks to tremendous of Gathering for Women’s staff stepped in, working community support and Monterey Day Center was long, hard hours. It was hard-working and com- to address the unique needs not uncommon for staff mitted volunteers, in 2020 of homeless and housing to work 10-hour days as GFW served more than insecure women on the they jumped in to make 400 guests, provided over Monterey Peninsula. GFW breakfast, greet guests 1,300 case management provides nutritious meals, at the reception desk, or visits, 16,000 meals, shower facilities, clean assist in the clothes closet. nearly 1,900 clothes closet clothes, and case man- Slowly the volunteer base visits, and nearly 3,000 agement, as well as a safe grew as they reached out showers. One guest said place to regain some badly to AARP, Community she was thankful for the needed dignity and self-re- Builders, and the Junior “unconditional love all spect. A woman’s basic League, as well as staffing the ladies gave to every needs must be met – only a table at the Farmer’s woman that would walk then can she begin to think Market. From April 2020 through the door.” GFW about her future. to March of 2021, they is so grateful to their new, Since opening in April added 69 volunteers. New continuing, returning, and of 2014, GFW has been a and continuing volunteers retired volunteers who volunteer-driven organiza- worked 6,500 hours from make the world a better tion. Until the pandemic, April 2020 to March 2021. place by dedicating them- they had over 160 volun- With COVID-19 restric- selves to serving others in Provided photo of GFW Cafe teers, who alongside staff, tions lessening and greater need. Volunteers remain the heart of the Monterey for the Aquarium,” says Executive Director Julie Bay Aquarium Packard. “I can’t thank our volunteers enough for Beginning before its lection, and contributing the way they’ve supported opening in 1984, the to research published by us throughout our history contributions of volun- Aquarium scientists. Other -- and especially during teers were vital to the volunteers, to the tune of such a challenging year. success of the Monterey 618, stayed connected ”With our Sea Otter Pro- Bay Aquarium. Volunteers remotely, offering service or gram, they provided crit- continued service through- connecting virtually through ical support so our work out 2020 and into 2021, 1100 hours of weekly en- to rescue, rehabilitate and even when the aquarium richment sessions on marine release stranded sea otters was closed to visitors for animals and ocean conserva- could continue during the nearly 14 months. Though tion. They found new ways pandemic. “We’ve been more than 1,500 people to support the operation, overwhelmed by the sup- Provided photo of Marlon Cabrera-Olvera (taken before the closure of the Aquarium due to Covid-19) sharing -- some in their teens, notably by making masks port of our volunteers,” the wonders of the ocean with area youth. others in their 80s and 90s for Animal Care staff so they explains animal care -- serve on the volunteer could work safely, in close supervisorSandrine Haz- contributions, in different 1,900 dives Aquarium inspiring to see how our team, COVID-19 limited proximity to colleagues, an. “We knew they were ways. Barry Elkins has been exhibits. Youth recipi- volunteers’ passionate the numbers to just 112 during the pandemic. As the vital to the success of our an invaluable part of the ent Ruksheen (Rukie) support for the Aquarium active onsite volunteers Aquarium reopens, they’re program before, and the Sea Otter Program, while Kasad coaches new Teen endures,” says director after March 12, 2020. preparing to welcome guests pandemic has proven they Cari-Esta Albertsupported Conservation Leaders of Volunteer Engagement They continued with vital back into the galleries. “My are truly essential. “The the Aquarium’s Member- while Marlon Cabre- Laraine Lomax. “They work, helping care for res- mother, Lucile Packard, volunteer recipients of our ship and Development staff. ra-Olvera designed props continue to offer their cued sea otters and exhibit was an active community annual Lucile S. Packard Charter volunteer divers for Aquarium school time and talents to help us animals, diving in exhibits volunteer all her life. She Memorial Award and Lynn Moncher and Steve programs that educators inspire conservation of the to perform maintenance knew how important a Packard YouthVolunteer Benoit have 36 years of ser- use to help students learn ocean in our region and and feed the living col- volunteer program would be Award have made lasting vice apiece and a combined about marine life. “It’s around the globe.

Family to Family Farm Discovery Fire Safe Council for Monterey County Monterey County Nonprofits First Mayor’s House First Night Monterey Many local nonprofit organizations offer volunteer opportunities. If you would like First Tee of Monterey County to find a way to contribute your time or make monetary contributions or learn more Fomukong Health Foundation, Inc. about what these wonderful nonprofit organizations do, we have put together a list so Food Bank for Monterey County Forest Theatre Guild you can see what’s out there that might interest you. Foundation for Monterey County Free Libraries Foundation of California State University MOB Action Council of Monterey County, Inc. Carmel Bach Festival Frank Sollecito Jr. Leukemia Fund Active Seniors, Inc. Carmel Foundation Friends of Carmel Forest Ag Against Hunger Carmel High School Foundation Friends of the Harrison Memorial Library, Ag Land Trust of Monterey County Carmel Music Society Friends of Marina Library Agricultural and Land Based Training Association Carmel Public Library Foundation (CPLF) Friends of Monterey Public Library (ALBA) Carmel River Watershed Conservancy Friends of Moss Landing Marine Labs (MLML) AIM for Mental Health Carmel Valley Angel Project Friends of the Fort Ord Warhorse (Marina) Al and Friends Carmel Valley Women’s Club Friends of the Salinas Public Library Alisal Center for Fine Arts Carmel Youth Center Friends of the Sea Otter All Saints Episcopal Day School Casa de la Cultura Center Fund for Homeless Women Alliance of Monterey Area Preservationists (AMAP) CASA of Monterey County Future Citizens Foundation Alliance on Aging Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey G.I. Josie American Cancer Society - Salinas Center for Community Advocacy Gateway Center of Monterey County, Inc. American Cancer Society Discovery Shop (Salinas) Center for Photographic Art Gathering for Women American Cancer Society Discovery Shop (PG) Central Coast Art Association Gen Giammanco Foundation American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) Central Coast Lighthouse Keepers Gil Basketball Academy American National Red Cross Central Coast Quality of Life Programs Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast American Red Cross, Monterey Bay Area Chapter Central Coast Veterans Cemetery Foundation (CCVCF) Girls, Inc. of the Central Coast Animal Friends Rescue Project - (AFRP) Central Coast Visiting Nurses Asso. (VNA) & Hospice Global Majority ARIEL Theatrical Cesar Chavez Foundation Golden Oldies Cat Rescue Arms of Angels Chamber Music Monterey Bay Goodwill of the Central Coast Arthritis Foundation Chartwell School Greenfield Cultural Arts Center Artichoke Festival (Castroville Artichoke & Wine Fest) Child Mind Institute GRID Alternatives Arts Council for Monterey County CHISPA - Community Housing Improvement Systems Guitars Not Guns Arts Habitat and Planning Assoc, Inc. Habitat for Humanity Asian Cultural Experience (ACE) Citizens for Sustainable Marina Hands to Help Seniors Azore, Inc. Coalition of Homeless Services Providers Harden Foundation Bay View Academy (BVA) Coastal Kids Home Care Harmony at Home Big Sur Arts Initiative Colleagues of the Arts (COTA) Hartnell College Foundation Big Sur Charter School Communities for Sustainable Monterey County Healing Partners of the Central Coast Big Sur Health Center Community Emergency Response Volunteers (CERV) Helping Our Peninsula’s Environment (HOPE) Big Sur Land Trust Community Foundation for Monterey County Henry Miller Library Big Sur Marathon Foundation Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula Hidden Hills Ranch Big Sur Volunteer Fire Brigade Community Human Services Hidden Valley Music Seminars Birch Bark Foundation Community Partnership for Youth HOPE Services Blind & Visually Impaired Center of Monterey County Confidence Pregnancy Center Hope, Horses and Kids Bob Hoover Academy Dan and Lillian King Foun. for Constitutional Studies Hospice Giving Foundation Boy Scouts of America Dance Kids of Monterey County Hospice of the Central Coast Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County (BGCMC) Deaf and Hard of Hearing Service Center, Inc. Housing Authority of the County of Monterey Breakthrough Men’s Community Dentistry For Vets Housing Development Corporation (HDC) Breast Cancer Assistance Group Door to Hope Housing Resource Center of Monterey County California Native Plant Society - CNPS Dorothy’s Place ILCF - International Language and Culture Foundation Camerata Singers Ecology Action IMPOWER Camp SEA Lab Education Foundation for MPUSD Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program (I-HELP) Cancer Patients Alliance El Camino Real Futbol League Canine Companions Elkhorn Slough Foundation Interfaith Outreach of Carmel Cannery Row Foundation Ensemble Monterey Interim, Inc. Carl Cherry Center for the Arts Epicenter of Salinas International School of Monterey Carmel Art Association Equine Rescue Center Carmel Arts Festival (CPAF) Everyone’s Harvest Continue on page 4 HAPPY NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK

THANK YOU

TO ALL OF OUR AMAZING VOLUNTEERS

WHO HELP US CARE FOR OUR COMMUNITY

montagehealthfoundation.org/volunteer Non Profits...continued Monterey Hostel Society Restorative Justice Partners from page 2 Monterey Institute for Research in Astronomy (MIRA) Return of the Natives Monterey Jazz Festival Rice Plus Project Italian Catholic Federation Monterey Museum of Art Sabu Shake Sr. Memorial Foundation ITN MontereyCounty Monterey Peace & Justice Center Salinas Area Modelers, Inc. Jacob’s Heart Monterey Peninsula College Foundation Salinas Barrios Unidos Josephine Kernes Memorial Pool (MPC Foundation) Salinas-Kushikino (Japan) Sister City Association Junior League of Monterey County Monterey Peninsula Foundation Salinas Reading is Fundamental (RIF) Keep Monterey County Clean Monterey Peninsula Volunteer Thrift Shop Salinas Valley Food & Wine Festival Kernes Adaptive Aquatics Monterey Public Library Friends & Foundation Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital Foundation Key for a Cure Foundation (MPLFF) Salvation Army Kinship Center Monterey Rape Crisis Center Santa Lucia Conservancy Kiwanis Club of Monterey Monterey Regional Waste Management District Save Our Shores Land Watch Monterey County Monterey State Historic Park Association (MSHPA) Service Learning Leadership Program, CSUMB Service Legal Services for Seniors Monterey Symphony Learning Institute Life After School Program Monterey Zoo Shakespeare Society of America Loaves, Fishes & Computers (LFC) MPUSD Fund for Arts SNIP Bus Luke’s Legacy Foundation Nancy Buck Ransom Foundation Sol Treasures Lyceum of Monterey County National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Sea Otter Classic Foundation Mandell Gisnet Center for Conflict Management National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI) Sophie’s Heart Marina Foundation National Steinbeck Center Foundation South County Animal Rescue (SCAR) Marina in Motion (Marina) Natividad Foundation South County Out Reach Effort (SCORE) Marina Tree & Garden Club (Marina) Naval Postgraduate School Foundation Southern Monterey County Center for the Performing Marina Youth Arts Nonprofit Alliance of Monterey County - NAMC Arts Inc. (Greenfield) Marine Life Studies Northern California Golf Association Foundation SPCA for Monterey County Max’s Helping Paws Foundation (NCGA Foundation) Special Kids Connect (formerly Special Kids Crusade) Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula Occhiata Productions (Monterey) Spector Dance Meals on Wheels of the Salinas Valley The Offset Project (TOC) St. Vincent de Paul MEarth Carmel Old Monterey Foundation Steinbeck Center Foundation Middlebury Institute of Intl.Studies at Monterey (MIIS) Oldtown Salinas Foundation Steinbeck House Restaurant / Valley Guild Mission Trails ROP Operation Give Back Suicide Prevention Service Montage Health Orchestra in the Schools Sun Street Centers Montage Health Foundation Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) @ CSUMB Sunset Cultural Center Monterey Academy of Oceanographic Science (MAOS) Outreach Unlimited (IHELP) Surfrider Foundation Monterey Audubon Society Pac Rep Theater Tandy Beal & Company Monterey and Salinas Valley Model Railroad and Pacific Grove Art Center Tatum’s Garden Foundation Historical Society (MSVRR) Pacific Grove Hyperbaric Chamber TCOPS International, Inc. Monterey Bay Aquarium Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History Teddy Bears with Heart Monterey Bay Charter School Pacific Grove Pops Orchestra The Friends of the Pacific Grove Public Library Monterey Bay Educational Center Pacific Grove High School Alumni Association Transformational Coaches Monterey Bay Heritage Alliance Pajaro Valley Community Health Trust UnChained Monterey Bay Sports League Pajaro Valley Shelter Services United Way of Monterey County Monterey Bay Users Group (MBUG) Palma School Valley Health Associates Monterey Bay Veterans Pacific Grove Public Library Foundation Ventana Wilderness Alliance Monterey Beach Sportsfest Panetta Institute for Public Policy (Seaside) Ventana Wildlife Society Monterey County Business Council Papillon Center for Loss & Transition Veterans for Peace, Inc., Chapter 46 Monterey County Committee for Employment of Parenting Connection Veterans Transition Center People with Disabilities (MCCEPD) Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays Victory Mission Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau (PFLAG) Village Project (MCCVB) Partners For Peace Visiting Nurse Association Monterey County Fair Heritage Foundation Partnership for Children VNA Community Services Monterey County Film Commission Pass The Word Ministry Voices of Monterey County (formerly CASA) Monterey County Historical Society Peace of Mind Dog Rescue Volunteer Center of Monterey County Monterey County Interfaith Alliance Peacock Acres Watsonville Wetlands Watch Monterey County Police Activities League (PAL) Pinnacles National Park Foundation World Affairs Council of the Monterey Bay Area Monterey County Pops! Pinnacles Partnership Yellow Brick Road Benefit Shop Monterey County Rape Crisis Center Planned Parenthood Mar Monte Youth Arts Collective Monterey County Scholarship and Awards Program Point Lobos Foundation Youth Music Monterey County Monterey County Sheriff’s Advisory Council Pride of Monterey County Youth Orchestra Salinas (YOSAL) Monterey County Sheriff’s Posse Professional Women’s Network of the MOP YMCA (Central Coast YMCA) Monterey County Theatre Alliance Project Sentinel YWCA Monterey County Monterey County Veterans Employment Committee Rancho Cielo (MCVEC) Read to Me Project While we have done our best to capture the name Monterey County Young Professionals Group Rebuilding Together with Christmas in April of all Monterey County nonprofits, if you know of Monterey County Youth Museum (MY Museum) Redwings Horse Sanctuary one that is missing, please email Dana at darvig@ Monterey High Instrumental Boosters Relay for Life montereyherald.com or call 831-726-4343.

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK • APRIL 18-24, 2021

The Meals on Wheels of the Salinas Valley, Inc. Board of Directors and Staff recognize our dedicated volunteers who provide an essential service to homebound seniors in the Salinas Valley. Throughout the entire COVID-19 pandemic, they have worked tirelessly. Volunteers: the driving force of our organization for 49 years! Volunteer service from 4/1/20 - 3/31/21.

Alvarez, Franklin Ettinger, Steve Kirkpatrick, Pamela Reclusado, Andrea Vazquez, Natalie Andrus, Jeff Fanoe, Catherine- Kooroshfar, Maria Reclusado, Steve Villanueva, Sabas Arunasalam, Sandra Fausto, Elizabeth Kovacs, Bev Richardson, Erika Virrueta, Tony , Michelle Folliard, Tom Lawson, Kim Richardson, James Wheeler, Habiba Barrera, Chris Freeman, Elia Louie, David Riehl, Ron Wilcox, Russ Bassett, Ginger Frizzell, Louis Lurz, Victor Riehl, Virginia Williams, Tom Bend, Kyle Galleguillos, Julita Mahoney, John Rodriguez, Anahi Winant, Cliff Boilard, Diane Galleguillos, Luciano Massie, Dan Rose, Tim Wotherspoon, Steve Boyle, Cayle Garza, Connie McNiel, Gianna Ross, Michael Wrightman, Pat Boyle, Eileen Gianelli, John Metzer, Sharon Rubbo, Gordon Yanez, Jesus Brandt, Jon Gomez, Nito Mier, Rebecca Samuels, Steuart Zapata, Daniella Brown, Helena Gonzalez, Don Moore, Miles Schreckengost, Byron Zuniga, Maria Carroll, Cindy Green, Marsha Morganthaler, Mark Seeley, Marilyn Zuniga, Monica Cervantes, Christina Groves, Barry Murillo, Graciela Selvidge, Mervyn Cheney, Phoebe Guerrero, Cecilio Nelson, Rich Skager, Nancy Chishum, William Guzman, Nora Nunes, Kristy Southerland, Bruce Conrad, Donald Hale, Kathleen Oliva, Joseph Steinbeck Rotary Corlett, Michael Hedgpeth, Tony Ortez, Peter Sun Street Center Davis, Jeanne Henchcliff, Cheryl Park, David N. Swensen, Cary Davis, Jonathan Higginbotham, David Park, Karen Ann Tibbetts, Arlene Day, Jane Hitchcock, Alice Payne, Sharilyn Tokubo, Rod DeMarco, Marcie Houmes, Cleda Perdriel, Raymond Vaden, Luther Dodson, Cecilia Hughes, Maria Plunkett, Betsy Vasquez, Elise Dodson, Korina Ipong, Manuel Plunkett, Jerry Vasquez, Gabriel Duby, Marilyn Khieu, William Plunkett, Kim Ettinger, Aya Kimber, Mark Plymesser, Carla

www.mowsalinas.org | 831.758.6325 | [email protected] Thrifting your wardrobe is one of the best ways to lighten your impact as a

need to be bought, dis- farther by shopping sec- items from local landfills. one way we can work to carded … What a waste ondhand. Every brand, By shopping at Good- minimize our own carbon consumer of time and money!” size, style, and color under will, customers can reduce footprints and make small As consumers world- 22), it’s important to Of course, thrifting the sun can be found along the need for valuable steps towards a better wide buy more clothes, recognize the hidden en- is one of the best ways Goodwill’s aisles — at a natural resources in the future. the growing market for vironmental costs of fast to lighten our impact fraction of the price found production of new fabrics. Finally, think about what cheap items and new fashion, and obvious al- as a consumer. Every on new items. Consider this amazing your Goodwill styles is taking a toll on ternatives to help reverse purchase you make at Buying secondhand fact: To grow the cotton means all along the chain. the environment. The these trends. Goodwill Central Coast is clothing is by far the most required to make a new You reduce clutter and plain truth: Fashion pro- Zero-waste advocate a practice in sustainabil- sustainable choice we can T-shirt and pair of jeans the stress it brings, and duction makes up 10 per- Bea Johnson makes a ity, fair working condi- make. When we purchase takes more than 5,000 gal- you help the environment. cent of the world’s carbon good point about the tions, good prices and items that already exist, less lons of water, so choosing But by giving someone emissions, dries up water current consumer culture: great style. finite resources are needed. to buy items secondhand else that opportunity to sources, and pollutes “Disposability is a modern While there are some Thrifting also delays exist- has a powerful environ- purchase your items, it rivers and streams. What’s concept, something that amazing brands that care ing clothes and other prod- mental impact. strengthens the commu- more, 85 percent of all was invented by the about the environment ucts from ending up in the Switching to thrifting nity through Goodwill’s textiles end up in landfills manufacturers and their and their workers, it landfill. In fact, each year isn’t going to completely employment training and each year. (The equivalent powerful marketers out can be hard to navigate our Goodwill stores divert solve all of the problems opportunities. of one garbage truck full of financial greed … they fashion standards. And approximately 70,000 tons within the fashion and And that’s the power of of clothes is burned or promise us time savings frankly it’s expensive to of clothing and household textile industry, but it is thrifting. dumped in a landfill every in our life, so we can be shop for new brand items. second). more productive, but don’t New clothes can be With Earth Day right the products they sell rath- pricey, so make your around the corner (April er hinder efficiency? They wardrobe budget stretch

BROUGHT TO MONTEREY COUNTY BY:

Provided photo Copyright © 2021 Blue Zones, LLC and Sharecare, Inc. All rights reserved. THANK Y U VOLUNTEERS

Our incredible volunteers at Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System have made such a difference over the years in the lives of our staff, patients and community. To them, we express our deep appreciation. Learn how you can get invovled at svmh.com/volunteer or by calling 831.755.0772

CELEBRATING NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK APRIL 18–24, 2021 A Heartfelt THANK YOU! To Our Amazing Thankyou Volunteers! volunteers! During this unprecedented year, our dedicated When the Aquarium closed its doors last spring, corps of volunteers kept our wheels turning by many of our volunteers continued to lend a helping hand. From making masks to caring for rescued working tirelessly to provide home delivered sea otters, our volunteers have been essential to meals to those who needed them most. the Aquarium throughout this past year. We are so grateful for all that they do.

    

Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula 700 Jewell Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950

Out with the old — and hope begins anew. From clutter find simplicity… and joy in helping others through Goodwill’s job training and education.

ccgoodwill.org Carmel Foundation’s vital services for local seniors continued throughout pandemic Thanks to the many with a friendly visitor its offerings and found Seaside and Marina. and physically engaged, Carmel Foundation and helping hands of vol- program. A decade later, new ways to serve as In addition to provid- as well as providing an how you can make a unteers, The Carmel the Foundation acquired a valuable resource for ing for basic needs, the opportunity for people to difference by Foundation has contin- its first of several hous- basic needs, like food Foundation has helped connect with others. The or making a donation to ued to be an integral re- ing complexes enabling and shelter. Because with the overall health campus is currently still help them continue this source for seniors in our low-income housing to their campus was closed, and wellbeing of those closed, however, more important work. community. Founded in be available to seniors in they reinvented their they serve. The staff than 60% of the classes A membership organiza- 1950 by a group of com- our community, eventu- onsite lunch program by called each of their are still meeting either via tion, The Carmel Foun- passionate individuals ally serving 50 people. creating a new Curbside more than 3,400 mem- Zoom or socially dis- dation serves over 3,400 who valued their aging Years later, the Tech To-Go meal program. This bers offering options tanced offsite. Zoom hap- people in our community, neighbors, The Carmel Center was added in re- ensured that affordable to relieve the social py hours, a virtual “Artist ranging in age from 55 Foundation offers a host sponse to the increasing food could still be easily isolation associated with of the Month” display, and – 105. As The Carmel of vital services. role technology plays in and safely accessible the pandemic, and the filmed presentations and Foundation doesn’t accept Initial services were our world, and a mobility so that this particularly Foundation’s support performances are avail- government grants, they limited, but as the equipment loan program vulnerable population services department has able for members. rely on the support of Foundation took root, was established provid- could continue to receive provided assistance to an Visit carmelfoundation. individuals, businesses, the programs offered and ing walkers, wheelchairs, nutritious meals. Since average of 200 people org to learn more about and foundations. the number of peo- and other mobility devic- this new program began, per month. Almost 100 ple assisted increased es free of charge. The Carmel Foundation one-on-one appointments significantly. In the The Carmel Founda- has served an average of were held between a tech beginning, a welcome tion’s mission then, as 949 meals per month. instructor and a senior so center provided a place it is now, is “to provide The Foundation also ex- those isolated could learn for anyone in need of a place for members panded its meal delivery to use technology, like companionship. At that to gather and enjoy a program to include those FaceTime and Zoom, time, classes, movies, variety of activities in an that are particularly sus- to keep connected with lectures, concerts, and a environment of respect ceptible. Both the number friends and family. formal tea service were and camaraderie; it’s a of recipients as well as Voted “Best Hangout offered. Soon, a monthly place to call home.“ the number of meals each for Seniors” for 19 years potluck became a regular As seniors have relied could order increased, in a row, The Carmel activity. on the Foundation more providing another layer of Foundation is a wonder- Recognizing that not all than ever during the defense by having healthy ful place to spend time. were able to come onsite pandemic, vital services meals delivered directly to Prior to the pandemic, to enjoy good food, meal have continued to be one’s door. Recently they the Foundation offered delivery to homebound provided. The Carmel also expanded their geo- 60+ classes and activities seniors began along Foundation reinvented graphic reach to include to keep people mentally Provided photo Community members invited to participate in National Volunteer Month Blue Zones Project Monterey County (BZPMC) invites the community to find purpose in sharing their gifts, skills, and talents with others during National Volunteer Month from April 1-30. All month-long community members from across the county can join their neighbors and the BZPMC team in a variety of service experiences. Together we can make our community a better place to live, learn, work, and play. Visit https://montereycounty.bluezonesproject.com to view and register for local volunteer opportunities. All volunteers will be required to follow the latest COVID-19 preventative mea-

sures recommended by the County of Monterey Health Department. Web photo Gratitude Celebrating the Spirit of Volunteerism Since 1950 Despite our doors being closed, our hearts are open. We’ve missed the backbone of The Carmel Foundation ~ our dedicated volunteers. With appreciation for the meaningful difference you make, The Carmel Foundation Staff and Board of Directors

Rosemary Alderson Fred & Karen Crummey David Hart Ken Muers Janet Tezak Linda Andreae Barbara Darrah Ted Hill Ann Nelson Carolyn Thomas Carol Arana Steven Davalos Roy Hilts Lloyd Nolan Illia Thompson Rosemarie Axton Cristy Dawson Mary Hogan Cindy Onufer David Thon Marilyn Bachik Edward Detrick Jen Hollingsworth Jack Pappadeas J. Todd Shirley Ballew Carol Deuel Susan Hovermale Gerald Park David Tomlinsson Yolanda Barnett Johanna Dimitrov Kenneth Hunter Joan Parkinson Nancy Twomey Jim Barr Eva Doelman Janet Jacinto Larry Parrish Joan Beller Mary Lou Donegan Schatzi Joy Agnes Pontius Carolyn Uchiyama Maria-Litka Bennett Mary Lou Donnegan Shala Kashfi Peter Powles Serena Underwood Steven Bergman Gin Donohoo Alyne Lawler Donna Pribble Daniele Vagnini Darlene Berry Mary Jane Dziedzic Pamela Lawther William Richards Herman Van Gansen Robert Blade James Emery Leah Leppert Chris Robertson Andy Walker Satya Bradshaw Ahna Forman Merrill Leslie Don Ruble Rose Welch Emilija Breznikar Janie Franklin Katherine Lewis Susan Sailow Mary Wells Ina Brisley Allan Freidson Lori Lewis Ann Denise Sallee Cate Whitaker Terry Burns Grace Gambucci Renati Mannan Cynthia Schmidlin Emile Wilkinson Rick Butterworth Consuelo Georis Johanna Martin Claus Shelling Jacqueline Williams Martha Campbell Karol Gleason Keyte Marui Adrienne Shimoda Maryellen Wilson Patricia Carlson Michael Go Lois Lynne and Rick McCarthy Sharyn Siebert Marty Wolf Clara Cherry Bill Graessley Nancy McGraw Margaret Simmons Geoff Cocks Hannah Graessley Therese McNevin Ilona Simone Ralph Wolfe Sarah Cocks Sabreh Gross Frances Milford Jeanet Sivas Sue Wulfmeyer Jay Cook Melody Guice Susan Miller Marta Szemes Joan Wynar Joan Crenshaw Barbara Harrison Helen Monteith Joyce Tarter Rideout Cathy Wytmans Monci Crosby Carol Harrison Sue Mosolf Flo Terdy Rachel Zepeda

The carmel foundation 831.624.1588 P. o. Box 1050, carmel, ca 93921 sE corner of 8th & Lincoln

Enriching LivE s for 71 Y E ars

if interested in volunteering, please contact Melissa McKenzie at [email protected] Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System back adult volunteers svmh.com/volunteer or in some key roles, with call Volunteer Services appreciates their volunteers other opportunities for Department at 831-755- adults and students 16 and 0772. businesses, and At Salinas Valley Memo- our community through patients, and community. volunteers helped with older opening over the foundations. rial Healthcare System, their commitment of time, During the past year, volun- office projects, and crafting next couple of months. volunteers are appreciated talent, and compassion. teers have not been visible volunteers donated thou- To learn more about how and valued every day. Volunteers are your within the hospital setting; sands of items including you can join this team of During National Volun- neighbors, friends, and however, they continued to hand-made masks, cards, amazing volunteers while teer week, they take time family members, giving serve the healthcare system hats, booties, and comfort providing support for pa- to say a special thank time in a variety of service in vital ways. Lifeline and pillows. tients, families, and staff, you and celebrate volun- areas which provide op- Telecare volunteers helped It is exciting that our com- enjoy the healthy habit of teers’ contributions to the portunities for self-enrich- clients stay connected to the munity’s health status has volunteering, make new quality and availability ment while supporting the support and assistance they improved to the point that friends, learn new skills, of healthcare programs in SVMHS healthcare team, have come to trust, clerical SVMHS is able to welcome and more, please visit Volunteers are the heart of VNA sis. Wanting her to spend compassionate and fiscally a year or more, and a lot fills your soul with good- visits with certified pets. her final days at home, responsible manner. of the volunteers become ness,” Junghans said. “It’s Therapy Volunteers, like Sapien turned to VNA & During National Volunteer almost members of the a profound person-to-per- Sapien, provide services Hospice. “I saw how great Week (April 18-24) and all family,” she said. “They’ve son experience that can and support through giv- the nurses were at provid- year long, VNA salutes its been sitting there every change your life.” ing haircuts, massages or ing services we couldn’t volunteers for making an week for a few hours. They From the initial phone playing music. provide,” she said. Re- invaluable difference in the create a bond with the call and in-person inter- VNA first began provid- membering her promise lives of patients and their patients, but they become a view, VNA works with ing comprehensive and Provided photo of Connie Sapien “to do whatever I could to loved ones. respite for family members, prospective volunteers compassionate services make a bit of difference,” But ask any VNA volun- too. For a lot of them it’s a to find the right fit. VNA back in 1951. This year Back in 2006, Connie Sapien began to volunteer teer and they will report 24-hour job.” provides an orientation VNA & Hospice cele- Sapien faced open-heart at VNA. huge physical and emotion- When Junghans first and team training, where brates 70 years of pro- surgery by recalling Sapien had not cut hair al rewards. speaks with families about volunteers can learn viding the highest quality the inspirational words since her retirement. “I “What I always hear from the possibility of having a more about hospice, the health care to residents of written by German-born wanted to try, but found it volunteers is the connection volunteer companion, they interdisciplinary team, the Central Coast. In light diarist Anne Frank. “If challenging because some they make with families,” often politely decline. and how to work with of that milestone, VNA God lets me live ... I shall of the patients could not said VNA volunteer coordi- “When I tell them about patients. has announced plans to not remain insignificant. get out of bed.” she said. nator Quinn Junghans. “The our program and let them Volunteers are drawn honor and celebrate its I shall work in the world She worked with VNA giving comes easy and they know we have a wonderful from every age group and employees and volun- and for mankind.” Frank nurses and caregivers to come away feeling like they group of fully vetted vol- background. The only teers, and create a special fell victim to the Holo- effectively prop up the received all the companion- unteers, and that they can qualification is a real Movie Night caust, but through her patients into a sitting ship and comfort.” have a nap, take a shower, desire to make differ- on June 26 at Monterey posthumous book “The position, allowing her to Studies show that vol- leave the house to see a ence in the lives of their County Fairgrounds. Diary of Anne Frank,” work around her partial unteering can improve friend, or sit in the sun- neighbors. The VNA family and she inspired countless paralysis. mental and physical health. shine, I can almost hear the Visiting Volunteers pro- supporters will gather at others - including Sapien. “I could continue to use A selfless act of giving sigh of relief.” vide direct, non-medical the fairgrounds from 5-7 The Salinas resident my talent, also socializing can reduce stress, combat Bringing comfort or even support services to palli- p.m., for a drive-in style made it through her with patients and their depression and provide a distraction to a patient is ative and hospice patients experience, including surgery, but a subsequent caregivers,” she said. “I sense of purpose. immensely rewarding. A and their families. Office food trucks and beverag- stroke left her left hand love making people feel To be eligible for hospice, volunteer can listen, read Volunteers provide skills es. For more information partially paralyzed. That good, by looking good. a patient must be diagnosed aloud, hold a hand, keep and abilities that can on VNA, visit www.ccv- forced her to give up That is the best medicine.” with a life-limiting condi- vigil, do light housekeep- be utilized in an office na.com. Those seeking her love of cutting hair A dedicated team of tion with a prognosis of six ing, run errands, or just setting. Pet Therapy volunteer opportunities as owner-stylist at Hair volunteers helps VNA months or less. Junghans brush someone’s hair. Volunteers provide com- with VNA should reach Unlimited. & Hospice maintain its says that’s not always the “The connection, sharing panionship and enhance out to Junghans at (831) Then came her mother’s mission - to provide care case. personal stories, even with the quality of life for 751-5500, or email volun- terminal cancer diagno- in an ethical, effective, “Sometimes it becomes someone who is not awake, hospice patients through [email protected].

V OLUNTEERING IS A W ORK OF HEART

OF THE IMPACT ON @ VNA & HOSPICE THE MISSION IS

At VNA & Hospice, we have the cause and you can have the effect! Join our amazing team of volunteers who give so much yet get so much more in return. VNA offers a variety of volunteer opportunities that help enhance a patient’s quality of life and provide needed respite for family members. Hold a hand. Read aloud. Keep vigil. Run errands. Prepare a meal. Give a smile. Just two hours a week makes a huge difference — in their lives and yours!

Those seeking these rewarding experiences should call (831) 751-5500.

We are a non-profit agency serving Monterey, San Benito, and South Santa Clara Counties. P.O. Box 2480 • Monterey, CA 93942 CCVNA.COM