TBS social action is in the planning stages for an on-going project to care for the members of our congregation and of our community, who have long-term health needs.  We are looking to partner with Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers of Greater New Haven (IVCG), an organization founded on the ideal of community volunteerism of neighbors helping neighbors to foster independent living and reduce isolation. 

With this volunteer assistance, we can relieve some of the anxiety and loneliness for members of Temple Beth Sholom and of the greater community.   Volunteers, for example, can help by

assisting with grocery shopping
helping with small chores such as yard work or light cleaning
providing a ride to the doctor
being a friendly visitor (to the home or to a nursing home)
making a weekly phone call
reading to those with impaired vision
helping to pay bills
preparing meals
driving someone to services.

Volunteers can specify the types of activities with which they can assist and the amount of time they can offer.  For most volunteers this will probably be a maximum of  two hours per month.  Those able to drive can define the times of the day, week, or month when they are available and the areas where they would be willing to go.  Not all services must happen on a weekday, and I encourage those who are working or caring for young children to think about volunteering.

We hope to begin this program in January 2008.  In order to get organized, we need to know that we have volunteers available.  Once we have a group established, volunteers will meet and IVCG will provide training.  The needs in our congregation and in the greater community are very real.  If you are interested in being a volunteer or need more information, please contact Diane at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at 248-8319 (evenings and weekends).