“I Have A Friend” getting to know you

By Laurie Black

smile, and a conversation, can make a huge difference to both the person giving and the person receiving.

Cecelia says, "It is bringing positivity to others. I want to always leave Susan with a good feeling."

I could not help but feel brightened and positive around these two new friends and I look forward to hearing more about the hobbies and activities they enjoy together over time.

Laurie Black is the Senior Visitors Program Coordinator at Mental Health America of Fredericksburg

Meet Cecelia and Susan. I chatted with these new friends at the Fredericksburg Food Coop Card Making Project night in February. The card making project was a community event making cards to give to older adults in our community who are participating in Mental Health America of Fredericksburg's, Senior Visitors program The program matches a volunteer with an older adult who for a variety of reasons may be feeling lonely or isolated. Volunteers visit once a week for about an hour. Cecelia is a volunteer with the Senior Visitors program and Susan is a program participant. Cecelia and Susan met through the program in February and started an easy, comfortable friendship right away.

Cecelia says, "It was recommended to me that I volunteer with the Senior Visitors Program as a way to make connections and feel less lonely. It has certainly done that. It is also my way of giving to the community and serving my God by sharing a little of myself. Susan told me one of her goals was to pick up a hobby and to have a sense of completion in finishing a project. I want to help her with that and help her get out and be more engaged in activities."

Susan says, "Cecelia is always happy and cheerful. Her Tuesday visits give me something nice to look forward to. I love hearing about the things she's done in the past, and just getting to know her."

It certainly seems that their friendship is off to a good start. It was wonderful seeing them smile and laugh while making cards to share with others. Small and simple things such as a card, a

If you know a senior who could benefit from having a weekly, friendly visit or if you would like to volunteer to visit a senior, call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-22704 or visit our website at mhafred org Refer a senior or sign up to be a volunteer! The Senior Visitors Program is a free community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg

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