An elderly friend needs a ride to doctor appointments but no longer drives. A neighbor is 91 years old with no family in the area to help her get to the grocery store or pharmacy. These are some of the people the Shepherd’s Center helps every day by providing rides to medical appointments and necessary errands.

 

The mission of the Shepherd’s Center of McLean-Arlington-Falls Church is to help older adults stay in their homes and continue to live independently by providing rides to medical appointments, the grocery store, the pharmacy or bank. The loss of the ability to drive as we age impacts all of us. It can lead to isolation and inactivity.

 

We also have a Friendly Visitor/Caller program where we pair a client and a volunteer for an ongoing friendly relationship. They decide the schedule and frequency of calls that are designed to make sure they are doing well and to provide friendly conversation on a regular basis.

 

We are an all-volunteer organization supported by local church congregations, synagogues, businesses, individuals and community organizations in McLean-Arlington-Falls Church.  Volunteers select as few or as many rides as they wish after reviewing the rides that are needed. Our ride scheduling system notes the location and day and time of the ride pick-up, drop off and expected duration of the ride so the volunteer can select a ride that fits his or her schedule. There is no minimum requirement of time for our volunteers.

 

Volunteers are always needed! With the increase in the aging of the population, the demand for our services is outpacing our ability to provide support. We need drivers, friendly visitors and people to help with publicity, fundraising and speaking to local organizations.

 

The Shepherd’s Center of McLean-Arlington-Falls Church is a 501 (c3) non-profit organization and all services are provided at no cost to the recipient. Our office is located at 1205 Dolley Madison Blvd., McLean, VA, 22101-3019

 

To volunteer or to contact the Shepherd’s Center, please call 703-506-2199 or e-mail us at info@scmafc.org.