Neighbors Care Alliance
“We“ve Got Your Back”
drove Kathleen to physical therapy appointments until she could drive on her own. Another resident, Leslie, received a walker and shower stool on loan. “It was extremely helpful and very convenient and easy to have close by,” Leslie said. Other residents have ongoing needs because of social isolation or caregiving responsibilities. Residents who are new to Park West, or who feel shy in social situations often have difficulty reaching out or asking for help. In these situations, PWNHN volunteers schedule friendly visits to check in on residents. Andrea found PWNHN a huge help when she moved here with a relative who needed care. “The caregiver relief I got was crucial and important.” Plus, Rita connected Andrea with the supports and assistance offered by PCOA. “Though I don’t need so much help now, I may in the future and I’m glad PWNHN is here,” Andrea said.
By Kathleen Reeve , Park West Neighbors Helping Neighbors Board Member Park West is a senior mobile home park with 152 homes and around 225 residents. Residents host regular and special events, and take care to help each other through a Neighbors Care Program called Park West Neighbors Helping Neighbors (PWNHN). “We work for the good of all in Park West,” says Rita Hildebrand, PWNHN’s heart and anchor. Rita has kept PWNHN running for 10 years, and is grateful for Park West Management’s support. PWNHN volunteers help neighbors with temporary needs as well as ongoing needs. Some residents have short-term needs as the result of a health crisis or medical procedure. PWNHN volunteers may assist with taking trash to the dumpster, delivering mail and newspapers to the resident’s door, or offering medical equipment loans. One resident, Kathleen, recently used a walker so she could safely water her yard. “I wish I had known the extent of what [Rita has in the donated equipment shed], and I wouldn’t have bought some things,” she said. Volunteers
Rita Hildebrand, PWNHN Program Coordinator
PWNHN offers volunteers opportunities to serve in their skill and interest areas. Bill, a Notary Public, provides notary services and assists residents with advance directives and computer support. Artie is crocheting crossbody cell phone holders so that they can call 911 in the event of a fall or medical emergency. And still others ensure that residents have access to nutritious food. Park West’s volunteer corps is small, but mighty! And they work to ensure that every resident has their needs met. This is why their unofficial motto is, “We’ve got your back!” If you are a resident of Park West Mobile Home Park and you would like to learn more about the PWNHN program, or to volunteer, please contact Rita Hildebrand, Program Coordinator at (520) 903-9094.
Resources for commmunity members
June 2023, Never Too Late | Page 31
Pima Council on Aging
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