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Give Local: Offering a Ride and a Listening Ear

By October 29, 2020Connections, Volunteer

Eastside Friends of Seniors

Eastside Friends of SeniorsI started volunteering for Eastside Friends of Seniors (EFS) more than three years ago after retiring from my work as an emergency room nurse. I worked for over 40 years and felt retirement was not just about playing and enjoying personal activities, it was also an opportunity to serve others in need. My children have grown and now have families of their own, and although I do play an active part in their lives, I also know God calls me to serve others.

As an EFS volunteer driver, I can work driving appointments into my schedule, taking seniors to the grocery store, doctor’s appointments, hair appointments, or any other need they may have. Their life stories are interesting and many of the elderly people I volunteer with just need a person to listen to them.

Through EFS, I meet a variety of people, which is super rewarding. I hear so many stories, I could write a book. Over the last two years, I have driven and become good friends with an elderly man who is 95 years old and has lived in Issaquah most of his life. I feel blessed with this relationship and would not trade it for anything. Many times, I have told my friend he is the “Forrest Gump of Issaquah” because he knew so many of Issaquah’s prominent residents.

I encourage anyone who wants to help others and enjoys connecting with people to consider volunteering with EFS.

For EFS volunteer information, visit eastsidefriendsofseniors.org/volunteer.

Photo: Nedra with her friend, Leo. As a volunteer for Eastside Friends of Seniors, Nedra has driven Leo for the past two years and enjoys hearing his stories of “old Issaquah.” Photo provided by Eastside Friends of Seniors. 

As published in November 2020 Connections >>