Pasadena Village Visitors – Another Benefit of Community

Ron Scott, one of our Village Visitors, has been visiting some folks for several years. At the latest meeting of Visitors, he said, “I love doing my visits; I get so much out of it. I get more out of it than anyone.”

As part of Pasadena Village’s large volunteer training event that took place in September, volunteers were asked how they might like to get involved. Some Villagers indicated an interest in becoming a Village Visitor. Not only do they visit fellow Villagers who would like to have some company, they gain the benefit of getting to know another interesting Villager and forming a very special relationship. “It’s a way for the Village to make sure everyone remains connected,” said Ron.

Participants in the Visitor training session learned about and discussed activities, procedures, and safety precautions. The training was planned by Diane Kirbis, Board Member and retired nurse, Sue Kujawa, Village Board President, Priyanka Kumar, Volunteer Coordinator, and myself, a Villager and retired educator. The group shared stories and ideas. Sue Kujawa said, “I enjoy it and feel strongly it’s good for both people. Hearing the stories is so interesting.”

Sue and Ron shared some tips for new Visitors: Be an active listener. Take your time. Don’t think you have to fill up all the quiet time. Look around and ask questions about photos and treasures. Let the relationship develop over time.

In addition to information, procedures, and safety tips, the participants took home tea bags and small packages of cookies to share with the folks they will be visiting. We are hoping that Village Visitors serve to enrich the sense of community for both Village Visitors and those they will be visiting.

Make-up training is being scheduled in November and ongoing quarterly meetings of the Village Visitors will also be planned. The group opted to continue to get together to chat, share ideas, and “have holiday parties.” If you are interested in volunteering as a visitor, please contact Priyanka Kumar at 626-795-6037 or priyanka@pasadenavillage.org. Members who are interested in having visitors can also contact Priyanka.

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