A local nonprofit organization lends a helping hand to those ages 55 and older who need assistance
by Charlotte Skipper Neighborly
MIGHTY F or older adults, the world can become more isolating with each passing day. Simple tasks might become difficult, and reaching out to neighbors could feel awkward. Fortunately, Neighbors Network is here to help seniors combat the loneliness and isolation that can come with aging. Neighbors Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2013, connects active older adults with volunteers who assist them with remaining independent and engaged in their communities. Cathy Lieblich, president of the organization, says many older adults can safely avoid moving to senior living communities with just a little assistance every now and then. “We’re helping people thrive,” says Cathy. “More people are staying independent and staying connected to the community because of Neighbors Network.” Neighbors Network assists anyone age 55 or older who lives in Maitland, Eatonville, Winter Park, Casselberry, Fern Park, Orlando north of Colonial Drive, College Park, Baldwin Park, and Altamonte Springs below State Road 436. Volunteers are not required to reside in one of those areas. A Community-Minded Approach A fter paying an annual fee ($300 for an individual; $400 for a household of two or three people), network members gain access to volunteers who can drive them to appointments, take care of tasks around the house, or even just sit and chat. While seeking assistance from an adult care agency works in some situations, it lacks the emphasis on community togetherness that Neighbors Network offers. “We’re trying to be an intentional community,” says Cathy. “It used to be that neighbors always helped neighbors, but this doesn’t always happen, or some people may not even know their neighbor. We’re providing this community of people who will help each other when it’s needed, and they truly spend time together. It’s all about that community of belonging.” After a background check, volunteers are given a list of tasks and times that have been requested, allowing them to help out as their schedules permit. Although the main goal of Neighbors Network is to assist its members, the volunteers often benefit, too. Emily and Marty Glickstein of Maitland have volunteered for eight years with Neighbors Network, frequently driving members around town or assisting them at their homes.
< Emily and Marty Glickstein have volunteered with Neighbors Network for eight years.
The camaraderie that Marty has developed with those he helps has given him a greater appreciation for his community and the people in it. “The members trust us to come to their home or drive them around, and I trust them,” says Marty. “It’s a feel-good venture. It always feels great to help others. It’s a win-win.” In addition to providing individual visits, Neighbors Network organizes monthly outings for members and volunteers. Get- togethers have included boat tours, crafting days, and museum visits, giving everyone an opportunity to enjoy a fun day out on the town. In a world where many people barely know the folks living next door to them, Neighbors Network helps build true connections. Cathy believes it’s the simple things – from changing a light bulb for someone or chatting with them on the phone – that go a long way toward making the world a better place. “Doing a mitzvah feels just as good for the person being helped as it does for the volunteer who’s doing something meaningful for somebody,” says Cathy. “Everyone will get something good out of it.” ^ Marty Glickstein with a member of Neighbors Network
For more information, visit NeighborsNetworkFL.org.
12 J LIFE | FALL 2025
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