Senior Companion Program
HONORING OUR VETERANS PCOA and AmeriCorps Seniors are proud to recognize three service-minded stars among our Senior Companion Volunteers. These Veterans once stepped up to serve our country and now continue giving their time and friendship to isolated older adults, as Senior Companion volunteers. We are grateful for your service to our country and honored to work beside you and witness the impact you are making in our community. We asked, “Why is serving others important to you?”
Left to Right – Ralph Shaw, Jose Hernandez, Dan Fleming Ralph Shaw
Jose Hernandez Army 6 years (Vietnam War), Navy Reserves 3 years– People were dodging the draft and I was inspired by the words of JFK, “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” I took an oath and that oath doesn’t expire. The American Legion also says that we should serve our community, our state and our nation. My hobbies weren’t enough.
Dan Fleming Air Force 11.5 years (Operation Desert
Storm) – I was looking for something similar to my work as a SunVan driver. I couldn’t work full time but love working with people. I like doing something worthwhile.
Army Signal Corps 3 years (Cold War Era) – Fear of disintegration. I volunteered at the Pima Air and Space Museum for over five years but I wasn’t doing well when the volunteer program stopped due to COVID. I needed to be active again and it’s very motivating because I feel that humans were designed to move and it’s rewarding to help others get out and about to do the same.
If you would like to serve your community and be a lifeline to homebound older adults, please call (520) 305-3453 to learn more about becoming a Senior Companion Volunteer!
Page 26 | November 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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