Volunteer for the Book of Life to Make a Difference

Nationally, six out of every ten nursing home residents does not have someone to visit them. To ensure that the residents within the Vincentian system and our member
ministries receives the highest level of joyful compassionate care possible, we are committed to building a robust volunteer program that engages members of
our community—churches, schools, corporations and individuals to share their time and talents with every resident in our care at four facilities in Allison Park, Greentree, McCandless, and Stanton Heights.

This year, the Vincentian system and our member ministries are launching our Book of Life program to provide new volunteers with the experience and joy of being the highlight of someone’s day on October 27 which is Make a Difference Day, the most encompassing national
day of helping others – a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors.

Volunteers will be matched to residents to lead a discussion and capture memories, accomplishments and life stories. Vincentian is providing volunteers with a
guidebook that includes photographs and sample questions to spark the recollections and conversations. Many studies on reminiscing reveal that recalling and sharing life stories has the power to lower depression, exercise the brain, and engage those with dementia. Life stories are also creating new conversations and bonds between families, staff, volunteers, students while leading to a higher sense of purpose and meaning for elders. Both the volunteer and the resident will benefit from participating in the Book of Life program.

To apply, contact Joyce Lewis-Andrews at jandrews@vcs.org by October 25.