Urban Herman- iVolunteer
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D02_ylh5cQU
We had the opportunity to check out the iVolunteer event in NYC. iVolunteer is a dynamic visitation program that sends volunteers to the homes of Holocaust survivors, providing them with companionship and much-needed assistance. Volunteers are carefully matched with survivors who live nearby and share common interests. Through weekly visits, volunteers build rewarding and enduring friendships with survivors. They are given the privilege of hearing extraordinary stories, and the inter-generational bonds that inevitably form ensure the experience of the Holocaust will not be forgotten.
In addition to providing assistance with shopping and personal organization, the volunteers read to survivors, accompany them on walks, and escort them to doctor visits. iVolunteer creates a sense of community by providing both our survivors and volunteers with social events and special programs. These programs include monthly Friday night dinners for our volunteers and luncheons for our survivors.As Holocaust survivors age, errands and household tasks become more challenging., and maintaining a fulfilling social life is increasingly difficult. Volunteers offer survivors the opportunity to share stories and hobbies, and to trade opinions on current events. They can also be a valuable helping hand for survivors who need an escort to the store or to the doctor’s office, or could simply use some help organizing household items. Volunteers feel extremely gratified when they see how much survivors value their companionship and assistance. You can learn more @ http://www.ivolunteerny.com/