June. Father’s Day, graduations, school vacations, and the beginning of summer. The pace of life feels like it changes somehow in the month of June. But no matter the season, what never changes is Neighbors Network’s commitment to connection. This month, we are sharing an article written by Kristin, a Board member and volunteer. She perfectly encapsulates what connection means to us. We are happy to share her article with you.
Neighbors Network is making connections that matter
When Kristin B. Abramson believes in something, she loves to share her joy and enthusiasm about it. She is a strong advocate for older adults, and we are very glad to have her talents and expertise as a volunteer and Secretary on the Neighbors Network Board. Kristin is a graduate clinical social worker and certified dementia practitioner dedicated to supporting older adults and strengthening community connection. She recently wrote an article for the TheCommunity Paper, May edition, about connecting with neighbors, particularly older ones. We’d like to share it with you here.
GROWING OLDER IN COMMUNITY
“Neighbors Network offers ordinary people the chance to show up and bring extraordinary connection to the community.
We hear the word “community” often, but we don’t always feel it.
Life moves quickly. People get busy. And somewhere along the way, many of us have lost the simple, human rhythm of checking in on one another. Not because we don’t care, but because we’re not always sure how. We are more connected than ever through our phones, our calendars and our screens. And yet, many people still experience a quiet kind of disconnection, one that technology cannot reach.
And still, the need is there. In my work with older adults and families, I’ve come to understand that what people need most is not always something clinical or complex. It is connection. It is being seen. It is knowing that someone will show up.
That is what Neighbors Network brings back.
For over a decade, this Central Florida nonprofit has been quietly building something rare. It is a community where neighbors help neighbors in ways that are real, flexible and deeply human. A place where older adults are not defined by what they can no longer do, but are supported in continuing to live full, meaningful lives in the homes they love.
And for those who feel the pull to help, but hesitate, this is a different kind of volunteering.
There is no pressure to do more than you can. No expectation to be everything to everyone. You simply offer what you have, when you have it. A ride. A conversation. A helping hand. And somehow, those small moments ripple outward in ways that matter. Something shifts, not just for the person receiving help, but for the person giving it, too.
Neighbors Network reminds us that community is not something we scroll past or schedule. It is something we practice. It is built in ordinary moments, between ordinary people who simply choose to show up.
And in doing so, something extraordinary happens. We begin to feel it again.”
Thank you, Kristin, for sharing your thoughts and for all you do for this community!
Spotlight on Volunteers
Vicki Yurso’s journey into volunteering began with a deep personal mission. After caring for her mother for 17 years—acting as her dedicated driver and companion—she witnessed firsthand the profound sense of loss that comes when someone can no longer get behind the wheel. After her mother passed away, Vicki chose to honor that experience by becoming a volunteer driver for her church ministry. In 2021, she began volunteering with Neighbors Network.
One of her favorite memories involves driving a couple, who had recently transitioned to a senior community, back to their old neighborhood. They spent the day visiting their favorite local haunts, eating at their go-to restaurant, and shopping at the stores they loved. As Vicki puts it, “It was a great day for everyone.”
These days, Vicki leans into her technical expertise to keep members connected. Whether it’s troubleshooting a computer, setting up a tablet, or explaining how to use a smartphone, she approaches every tech hurdle with patience and joy.
For those on the fence about volunteering, Vicki offers this encouragement: “Whatever you have to offer, Neighbors Network can take it and use it to make a senior’s life better. It’s time well spent and truly a gift to experience. I hope someone will be there to do the same for me one day.”
Expanding into 32714
Do you like to drive? Neighbors Network is preparing to expand into 32714 in Altamonte Springs. We have served 32701 for years. Our goal is to recruit 25 new volunteers who live in or near Altamonte Springs before we officially open member enrollment in that zip code. We want to ensure new members will receive the reliable support they deserve,
Why volunteer with us? You can provide the kinds of services you like to do that fit within your schedule. Rides to medical appointments, grocery shopping, haircuts, etc., or, if you prefer in-home tasks, our volunteers help with organizing, phones and remotes, small handyman fix-its, and more.
If you are 18 or older and comfortable using email (that’s how we communicate with volunteers), we invite you to complete the Volunteer Application at our website. All volunteers undergo an interview and background check. Come join us and experience the joy of helping older adults who may live near you or across town and are truly grateful for your time!
Thank you
We would appreciate it if you would talk about Neighbors Network with your friends and family. You are a valued part of our community, and word of mouth has always been our best way to reach new people. Every new Member, Volunteer, Donor and Friend is an opportunity to change the life of an older adult for the better. Thank you for helping us do that!