Helping Hands of Yuma needs volunteers to help seniors
YUMA COUNTY, Ariz. (KYMA) - Helping Hands of Yuma says a shortage of volunteers is making it harder for seniors in the Foothills to get rides to important appointments.
The nonprofit provides free transportation to medical, legal and financial appointments for local seniors. Volunteers say the service is about more than rides, it's also about building relationships and helping seniors stay independent.
Susan, a volunteer driver, says volunteering is a way to give back to the community while getting to know people and making new friends. She says working with seniors has helped her better understand their abilities and support their independence.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, about 25 volunteers helped provide rides. Today, Helping Hands of Yuma says that number has dropped to just 10 drivers. Because of the shortage, the organization says it can only provide about 20 rides per week, even though around 100 seniors are signed up for the service.
Executive Director Amy Obney says it is difficult to turn people away when they call for help. She says there is much more need than the organization can currently meet.
Helping Hands of Yuma says people who cannot drive can still help in other ways. Volunteer opportunities include office help, assisting with donations, helping at fundraisers, making friendly phone calls, and writing notes of encouragement to seniors.
The organization says even volunteering one day a week can make a difference.
People who want to volunteer as drivers can contact Helping Hands of Yuma by phone at 928-305-9974, by email at helpinghandsaobney@gmail.com, or online at helpingyuma.org.
