May is a lovely time of year. We hope you’re enjoying the many beautiful signs of Spring. New growth is all around us, even here at Neighbors Network. Read on for some exciting news and how you can help.
Members receive a birthday cake on their special day
Neighbors Network’s Bake n Take team has a tradition of baking and delivering a small homemade cake to each Member on their birthday. It’s a treat the Members enjoy receiving and the Volunteers enjoy doing.
On a Member’s first birthday with Neighbors Network, when she saw what the Volunteer was delivering to her, she put her hand to her heart and said, “This is the first birthday cake I’ve had in 12 years, since my husband died. I’m 90 today. You have no idea how good this makes me feel.” The Volunteer was deeply touched. It was one more example of the heartwarming memories our Volunteers get to experience.
Of course, we respect that some Members cannot or don’t want to receive a traditional birthday cake. They may be gluten free, reducing their sugar intake, or will be away on their special day. If a Member prefers not to have a small traditional home-made cake delivered on their birthday, our Bake n Take team will bring flowers or a small plant or gift instead.
This Member was delighted the Volunteer made her the kind of cake she can eat.
Spotlight on Donors
Janice Nisbett, a relatively new supporter of Neighbors Network, first learned about our mission through her close friend and board member, Melanie Lee. Their friendship dates back to 1985, when Janice and her husband Joe moved to College Park. After receiving an annual appeal letter from Melanie and following our work on Facebook, Janice was inspired to invest in our mission.
Janice’s own career path is one of inspiration and “second chances.” After raising three children and dedicating herself to the PTA, Boy Scouts, and her church, Janice pivoted to law school. Today, she uses her skills to help people get criminal cases sealed or expunged, helping those with dismissed charges clear their records so they can move forward with their lives. She recalls a client who was falsely arrested; even after the charges were dropped, he could not find work or housing until Janice helped clear his name. “Helping him changed his life,” she says. “He was finally able to get a job and a place to live.”
When she isn’t advocating for others, Janice enjoys traveling, reading, and running. She and her husband are also celebrating some major family news: their second granddaughter arrived last month, and a grandson is on the way!
Janice’s advice to our community: “Tell your friends about Neighbors Network and ask them to tell their friends! It’s the best way to grow our mission and help more people.”
Expanding our service area to 32714
Neighbors Network is preparing to grow! We have served the 32701 area of Altamonte Springs for years, and now we’re expanding into the 32714 zip code. To ensure new members will receive the reliable support they deserve, our goal is to first recruit 25 new volunteers who live in Altamonte Springs before we officially open member enrollment in this area.
By becoming a volunteer, you can provide vital rides and in-home services on your own schedule. If you are 18 or older and comfortable using email, we invite you to complete the Volunteer Application at our website. All volunteers undergo an interview and background check. Join us and experience the joy of helping neighbors who are truly grateful for your time!
Life Enrichment Manager position opening
Neighbors Network is entering an exciting new chapter as we transition from a volunteer-led operating Board of Directors to a staff-supported model. For years, our Board members have skillfully managed the daily operations as volunteers, essentially filling staff-level roles to keep our programs
running. As dedicated leaders like Activities & Programs Chair Laura Capp, a conscientious Board member and volunteer for years, conclude their service, we recognize that the level of work required to maintain and grow our mission is significant.
To ensure Neighbors Network builds on the high standard already set, we will hire part-time, contract staff to manage critical responsibilities when a volunteer is not available for a specific role. Since we have been unable to find a volunteer to assume the essential role of Activities & Programs Chair, we are changing it to a paid staff position to ensure our programming remains vibrant, consistent, and well-supported for our Members.
The Life Enrichment Manager will be a flexible, remote contract position (approximately 15 hours/week at $20/hour). It’s a perfect fit for someone passionate about Neighbors Network’s mission and eager to play a key role in our growth.
It is listed on the open employment opportunities page at the Edyth Bush Institute website if you or anyone you know is interested. Thank you for helping us spread the word by forwarding it to friends you think would be a good fit.
Thank you
That’s our news for now. Thank you for being a valued part of our Neighbors Network community. You can help us grow by telling your friends and colleagues about us. Every new Member, Volunteer, Donor and friend is an opportunity to change the life of an older adult for the better. How amazing is that?
Your friends at Neighbors Network