Neighbors Care Alliance
In Her Own Words, Barbara Price, ICS Senior Services Participant
One particular experience stands out to Gerry. He says that one day, when delivering a food box to a program participant, the woman answered the door looking upset. Thinking he may have done something wrong; he asked her if there was anything he could do to help. She told Gerry that she was about to be evicted. Concerned, Gerry immediately came to ICS and informed the program staff. Thanks to his quick action, ICS’ Emergency Financial Assistance team was able to connect with the client and offer support to keep her from being evicted. Gerry’s story is a perfect example of how volunteers make a profound difference in the lives of those ICS serves.
“After a devastating car accident left me with a traumatic brain injury, my life changed completely,” Barbara Price recalls. “Suddenly, everyday tasks became hurdles I never imagined I'd face. One of the biggest challenges was losing the ability to drive. For a long time, I worried about how I'd get to crucial medical appointments or even something as simple as the grocery store. That’s when ICS stepped in." "From the very first ride, my driver, Susan, became more than just someone behind the wheel, she be- came a lifeline. She’s always on time, making sure I never miss an appoint- ment. Her reliability and safe driving help me feel secure and relaxed, something that’s hard to come by these days. And over time, Susan has become more than just my driver; she's become a true friend. She listens, cares, and has been there for me in ways I’ll always be grateful for." "I honestly don’t know what I’d do without ICS and Susan. They’ve made a difficult journey feel a little bit easier, and they’ve reminded me that kindness and compassion still exist in the world. Thank you so much for this incredible service. God bless you!” For more information about ICS programs call (520) 297-6049 or visit icstucson.org
How ICS Helps People Thrive in Their Homes Interfaith Community Services (ICS) helps older and disabled adults live independently in their own homes, without the need for institutional care. ICS volunteers provide essential support services such as mobile meals, senior food box delivery, transportation, and ICS Help at Home, while also offering social contact that helps keep recipients healthy and connected. Last year ICS provided 630 older adults with one or more services: providing 4,190 rides to medical appointments or the grocery store and delivering more than 17,000 mobile meals. ICS volunteers donated 28,215 hours and drove more than 205,000 miles. But the deeper, significant impact of ICS’ Senior Services Program lies within the lived experiences of our volunteers and the older adult participants. Volunteer Goes Above and Beyond Gerry Kuhnke is a long-time Senior Services volunteer who transports clients to medical appointments and helps them grocery shop. Referred to ICS through his faith community, Ascension Lutheran Church, he also delivers food boxes to homebound and older or disabled adults.
Gerry Kuhnke
Page 28 | March & April 2025, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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