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Thoughts From RSVP Telephone Reassurance Coordinator Debbie Mercer
When I joined the Telephone Reassurance Program, I thought I knew what the job would entail: working with volunteers to make daily phone calls to homebound or isolated seniors to provide some socialization and peace of mind. Pretty straightforward, right?
Well, it’s been a little over a year now and I can tell you this: the Telephone Reassurance Program is so much more than just a phone call. Our volunteers provide a friendly ear to folks who need someone to talk to as well as a valuable support system for families who want to make sure their loved ones are safe. It goes both ways though. Our clients are an amazing group. We have seniors who inspire us, like Sarah P, who’s not only charming and upbeat, but also 102! Others share their interests with us, like Phyllis M, a fellow book lover. I can’t tell you how many good books she’s recommended to me. And there’s the wonderful Lynn B, who never fails to give me a laugh first thing every morning by telling me which National Day it is. (As I write this, it’s National Cow Appreciation Day.)
Then there are our awesome volunteers, pictured here. Some have been with us for many years. Take Maureen D, who’s been making calls for the past 10 years. She sums it up this way: “Our clients only want to know that we care about them. We don’t have all the answers, but we can listen when others don’t.”
Kathleen C’s desire to volunteer in the TR program stems from values instilled in childhood. “As children, our mother nudged us ever so gently toward volunteerism. She said, ‘It’ll help you get over thinking about yourself all the time!!’ I’m so glad to say it does just that. Working for Telephone Reassurance and RSVP, you’ll meet a group of grateful senior souls who will look forward to your voice saying ‘good morning!’ and ‘how are you doing today?’ And you will come to find it a blessing.”
Laurie F finds the program personally rewarding. “I get as much from our senior clients as they do from us. When I’m done with my calls, I feel like I’ve made a difference in someone’s day just by listening. Connections. They’re so important.”
Here’s how the Telephone Reassurance Program works:
If you’re looking for a wonderful way to volunteer that doesn’t take too much time but makes a world of difference, please consider joining our Telephone Reassurance Program. If you have questions, please feel free to call me at 631-979-9490 x21 or email me at dmercer@rsvpsuffolk.org.
