UR Community Cares - November Newsletter 2024

We are full of gratitude, full of turkey and full of ideas on how to continue to serve the community.

Our volunteers are fostering connections, helping to decrease isolation and loneliness.

One of our Manchester volunteers named Pam started with us in June 2019. She started working with Sonya, who lived in a congregate living community but due to health issues was unable to clean her small apt., Pam provided warm conversation as she was doing house chores, a bright smile when Soyna needed it the most. She then started volunteering with Joyce, to organize her cluttered home, one pile at a time. Pam also worked with Susan who was downsizing, helping her box up her home of 20 years, then helped her unpack in her new apt. Pam worked with Susan for 4 years, they became friends, their connection benefited both parties. This work gave Pam’s life a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. Pam accumulated over 900 hours of volunteer time!

The Power of Connection: How Our Website Brings Communities Together

In an increasingly digital world, it’s easy to feel isolated, especially for older adults and individuals with disabilities. At UR Community Cares, we’re harnessing the power of technology not just to connect people online but to facilitate real-life, face-to-face connections that make a lasting impact. Our website is more than a digital hub—it’s a bridge to meaningful relationships and life-changing opportunities. You can see all of our upcoming programs and we welcome you to get involved today!

Building Bridges Between Generations – Neighbors Helping Neighbors

Our innovative platform connects volunteers with older adults and people with disabilities who need support in their daily lives. Whether it’s helping with household tasks, providing transportation, or simply offering companionship, these connections go beyond transactions. They foster trust, friendship, and mutual understanding. Volunteers report feeling more fulfilled, while participants gain the help and companionship they need to thrive.

All of our Programs Promote Mental Health and Well-Being

Social isolation is a significant challenge for many in our community, leading to feelings of loneliness and even depression. Our programming directly addresses this by bringing people together. Through face-to-face interactions and meaningful conversations, we’re helping individuals feel seen, valued, and supported. These connections often lead to improved mental health and a renewed sense of purpose for both participants and volunteers.

UR Community Tech Center – Empowering Through Technology

One of the most transformative aspects of our work is helping older adults and individuals with disabilities harness the power of technology. Through our website and hands-on training sessions, participants learn how to connect with family and friends online, access vital resources, and explore new hobbies. These skills open up a world of possibilities, helping them stay connected and engaged in ways they never thought possible.

UR Vision Resources – Improving Vision Resources

For those with low vision or blindness, navigating life’s challenges can be daunting. That’s why we’ve developed resources and programs specifically tailored to this demographic. From providing assistive technology to offering our comprehensive Blind/Low Vision Resource Directory, we’re ensuring that everyone has access to the tools they need to live independently and confidently. Our UR Vision Station will open January 23 and we welcome you to our Eye Health Fair from 10:30am-2:30pm that day!

Cycling Without Age Manchester – Free Recreation and Mobility

Through our Cycling Without Age Manchester program, we’re bringing joy and freedom back into the lives of older adults and those with limited mobility. Our e-bike rides are more than just a chance to get outside—they’re a celebration of community, nature, and the simple pleasure of moving through the world. These outings not only improve physical health but also create cherished memories for all involved. You can sign up to be a volunteer pilot for 2025 or invite us to an event you are hosting, we are mobile!

In home and Community Support – A Positive Impact on All Involved

At UR Community Cares, we’ve seen firsthand how these connections transform lives. Older adults and individuals with disabilities feel empowered and supported, while volunteers gain a deeper understanding of community and the joy of giving back. It’s a win-win that strengthens neighborhoods and fosters a culture of care and compassion.

Join Us in Making a Difference

The power of our website lies in its ability to bring people together for a common purpose: creating stronger, more connected communities. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, seeking support, or simply want to learn more about our programs, we invite you to explore our website and see how you can be part of this incredible journey.

Together, we’re proving that even in a digital age, real-life connections remain the heart of a thriving community.

When we hear the phrase “It takes a village.” we think of East Hampton, CT. It is a town wide Volunteer Success story!

Their municipal Commission on Aging, chaired by Eric Rosenberg, has incredible people volunteering together and launched our neighbors helping neighbors program for their residents. They fundraised to cover the expense of the program. They even have a volunteer that signs up people that don’t have access to our website and she’s running their accounts so if they need a ride to a doctor or they need help with someone raking the leaves they call her and she schedules it and then when a Volunteer accepts the appointment she calls them back and let them know, when Volunteer is coming.

The volunteers are writing articles to the local newspaper to let the town know what is happening and that is driving continued interest in the program. It’s been awesome to see the network of Good Samaritans that want to help their community. We now have 97 people working together in East Hampton for the better of older adults to not be lonely and isolated.