Article by Tanya Erway, Recruitment Manager, Volunteer Solutions
(Posted 2020 October)
Acts of kindness are uplifting—especially now during the pandemic. Volunteer Fairfax (a private, non-profit) has an initiative called Good Connects Us. It is an idea generator with an infographic that people use to record acts of kindness, giving or volunteerism.
A few examples are: you can shop for a neighbor, mow lawns/rake leaves, donate to a food pantry, paint rocks with inspirational messages and leave them along paths on your walk, or make a sign for your front lawn that thanks essential workers. Find more information, fill out a short survey and mark your good deed on the map.
Good Connects Us is a creative way to show the strength of the human spirit in Fairfax County. During this time of social distancing, we can still join together and show how we care about each other.
If you’re eager to begin volunteering, on Saturday, Oct. 24 and Sunday, Oct. 25, Volunteer Fairfax will host VolunteerFest. It is a community-wide event that engages volunteers across the county in a weekend of service.
Given current size restrictions for in-person gatherings, they are expanding volunteer opportunities to include at-home projects, virtual activities and some limited in-person options.
VolunteerFest is an opportunity to mobilize and introduce volunteers to various organizations that rely on volunteer support. By giving volunteers a range of service activities, the hope is that there is something for everyone. Learn more about VolunteerFest.
GrandInvolve – Tutoring Fairfax County’s Most Vulnerable Students
GrandInvolve, in partnership with Fairfax County Public Schools, places active, older adult volunteers in Title I classrooms. With the closing of schools, the switch to distance learning has prompted them to pivot their program to virtual tutoring. If you are interested in exploring this virtual volunteer opportunity, learn more at GrandInvolve or send an email.
Mount Vernon At Home – Drivers, Home Repair and Tech Help
Mount Vernon At Home is a non-profit organization serving older adults in the Mount Vernon and Alexandria areas of Fairfax County. Volunteers are needed for grocery shopping, minor home repairs/assistance, and computer and technical support. Licensed and insured drivers (who have their own cars) are especially needed to transport people to medical and other appointments. Mount Vernon at Home will supply volunteers with necessary personal protective equipment, and will even reimburse or provide a donation receipt for car mileage. Schedules are flexible. Contact them by email or call 703-303-4060.
PRS, Inc. – Donations and Virtual Advocacy
PRS, Inc. provides behavioral health, crisis intervention and suicide prevention services. PRS CrisisLink staff and volunteers are handling crisis calls and texts around the clock. Clinical staff provide behavioral health services through telehealth and in person (when necessary). Stress relief kits are needed and should include: coloring books and colored pencils, stress balls, journals, nonperishable snacks, cards with messages of hope, etc. Kits can be mailed or dropped off at PRS (10455 White Granite Drive, Suite 400, Oakton, VA 22124) between 9:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday, or items can be donated via their Amazon Wish List. Learn more about PRS.
The Shepherd Center is a non-profit interfaith organization sponsored by area congregations, community groups, and individuals to serve older adults. Its purpose is to provide services to assist older adults to live independently and offer programs for enrichment, learning and socialization.
- Annandale/Springfield, 703-941-1419
- Fairfax/Burke, 703-323-4788
- Great Falls, 703-586-9696
- McLean/Arlington/Falls Church, 703-506-2199
- Oakton/Vienna/Reston/Herndon, 703-281-0538
- South County, 703-799-0505
- Western Fairfax County, 703-246-5920
A medical appointment or trip to the pharmacy is a challenge if you no longer drive. Consider becoming a volunteer driver or office assistant/ride-scheduler through one of these non-profit organizations:
- Herndon Village Network, 703-375-9439
- Mount Vernon at Home, 703-303-4060
- Reston Community Center, 703-390-6198
Submit county volunteer opportunities to Tanya Erway by email.
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).