“Each and every resident, gets something out of going to chapel,” said volunteer Debby K., who started volunteering when she retired. “If they hear a familiar hymn, all of sudden they are singing.” Volunteering at Shorehaven gave Debby an opportunity to not only help with chapel but spend time with her mother, a Shorehaven Tower resident since 2011.
Debby escorts residents to Lutheran chapel services every Wednesday, where she said she explores “the opportunity to serve my Lord as I care for these special people…This is also my opportunity to hear His word.”
“I feel for what they’re going through. The residents have to use patience to ask others to help them,” said Debby. “When they are so used to helping themselves.” “If I can give of myself, and really provide a small part of making someone’s life happy, I know I’ve made a difference.” The volunteer said she’s worked a full life as a now retired nurse practitioner. “And now it’s time for me to give back. I do this because it’s a part of me, and an example that my mother set forward.”