Special Steps Walking Program
March 20, 2019
Good Morning,
I am reaching out to you today hoping you’ll be able to help in spreading the word of our need for volunteers. I thought of the Avon Trail group since I feel there may be some shared interest.
The VON Perth Huron (non-profit charity) founded the Special Steps program in 1988. The objective of the program is to provide activity and companionship to the person living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Participants are matched with community volunteers on a one-to-one basis. Volunteers offer support and friendship through ongoing regularly-scheduled walks. These walks support the individual and offer a brief break for the caregiver.
For the volunteer it is a flexible schedule, 1 to 2 hours a week and can be seasonal. The VON Perth Huron offers all necessary training and support.
The program participant vary in age from mid-60s to mid-80s, both male and female and are able bodied. The is a need for volunteers across Perth County in particular Stratford and St. Marys.
Client profiles #1: Female in her mid-60s, diagnosed with early stage dementia (Mild Cognitive Impairment), living with her husband west of Stratford, she is fit and loves walking – goes out 3 or 4 time a week, she enjoys, conversation and shoes. Her family is hoping for a walking companion to ensure she doesn’t get turned around and then has difficulty finding her way home.
Client profiles #2: Female in her mid-80s, living with her husband in Stratford, one child lives out West and the other in Toronto. She enjoys short walks and spending time outside. She can be described as chatty and happy-go-lucky.
Thank you very much in advance for time and effort in this matter.
Please do not hesitate in reaching out should you have any questions or require additional information.
Regards,
Jay Bodrog
Program Coordinator, Community Support Services
T: 519-291-5898 press: 3 (Listowel)
T: 519-271-7991 ext: 4237 (Stratford)
T: 1-800-265-5176 ext: 4237 (toll free)
975 Wallace Ave. N., Listowel, ON N4W 1M6
111-40 Long Dr., Stratford, ON N5A 8A3
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