Getting from one destination to another is something we all do a daily basis, but for some individuals, this can be a real challenge. Verde Valley Caregivers Coalition was created to address this crucial need. “Verde Valley Caregivers got started 31 years ago, all with a very firm intent of making sure people with the greatest needs had somebody paying attention to them. Giving them rides to the doctor’s appointments and giving them rides to get groceries and all those essential services,” says Kent Ellsworth, the executive director of the Sedona-based nonprofit. We “make sure our services are appropriate for everybody, regardless of the stage of their mobility challenges, and so we provide over 30,000 trips a year.”
The organization has three paid drivers and many other volunteers that can take those in need to medical appointments in Flagstaff and Phoenix, among other tasks. Although most of their clients are senior citizens, anyone 18 and older can utilize Verde Valley Caregivers services. In addition to supplying transportation to those in need, Verde Valley Caregivers also provides other community services. Since some of the people they serve have pets that provide an important social connection, the organization also has a program that helps provide pet food and funds for veterinary care. The nonprofit also has a Guardian Angel Program. This is a medical alert system that calls 911 with the push of a button. Many of their clients don’t have robust social support networks. “They tend to be very isolated, and oftentimes getting connected with the right kind of care can help them come out of that isolation and be a part of the community again,” says Kent. To address this need for connection, Verde Valley Caregivers offers social outings for its clients. About a year ago, the Coalition started organizing monthly outings to place like the Lowell Observatory. Lunch is also included in these outings.
Kent tells us that 150 to 180 people volunteer with the organization. Volunteers are an important part of what the nonprofit does. “The people we help, about 1,800 people in the given year,” he says. “They say that the best part of our program, when we asked them, is the volunteers, and they have a new friend now. They have somebody to talk with. That connection really is so important.” – Teresa K. Traverse
