Being a N-N volunteer has opened new doors for me, introducing me to people I probably would not have had the opportunity to meet otherwise, as they spend most of their time indoors alone.  In checking my notebook, I find there are 24 people with whom I have had the privilege to be involved.  Unfortunately, five of them are no longer with us, but I so enjoyed making their acquaintance and spending quality time with them.  It is not just helping them one time, it is the regular visits that bring us close together in a lasting friendship, as we share early childhood or working career experiences and share our outlook on the world in which we find ourselves today.  Those who are considering joining N-N as volunteers would greatly benefit in many ways , and find that their daily lives open much wider and become more fulfiling - for it is in giving that we receive.  Harriet Boone

Why do I enjoy volunteering---
It is fun!  I  used to dread the day when I would become old and dependent on others to help me to do what I wanted or needed to do.  My
feelings have changed about 360 degrees! Through my involvement with
""Neighbor to Neighbor, I have the opportunity to become friends with wonderful individuals who have led and are still leading very full and
interesting lives.. I always feel that I gain more than I give. I have learned about engineering and inventions, German cooking and immigrant
experiences, and the inner strength it takes to deal with any family tragedies and still have an optimistic outlook on life. I feel so lucky to be able to to spend time with these folks.  They are vibrant,
interesting, humorous, generous, and so appreciative of the fact that
someone is interested in listening to their wisdom and their stories.  I
truly feel that becoming a "neighbor" has been a very rewarding
experience in ever so many ways.  Kathy Malley

A few reflections about visits with Helen:

Olivia and I always enjoy visiting Helen.  We love to share our news and we love to hear what Helen has to tell us.  We always bring a book and a game to share.  Over the past 2 years of visiting Helen we have learned that she loves to laugh and sing.  So Olivia selects a picturebook that she thinks will tickle Helen's funny bone and we read it aloud.  We've played a variety of games with Helen too.  We have passed many happy hours together engaged in these activities!  Also, Helen is
especially touched when we bring her little gifts from the garden such as flowers or home-baked treats (she has a sweet tooth!). Susi and Olivia Garvin

Francis C had dreams of riding around in a little red sports car convertible when she and her husband retired in Vermont. Unfortunately circumstances changed when Francis lost her husband and that dream was never realized. All that changed when volunteer Stacy DeCesare made that dream come true. Francis celebrated her 93^rd birthday recently; Stacy asked her friend to pick Francis up in his vintage red MG convertible and take her for a birthday ride. As you can see, Francis had a wonderful time. Thank you for caring Stacy…That’s just what Neighbor to Neighbor is all about.