Reflections from Sophia (17) - EFS Volunteer

June 8, 2025 was a day filled with both joy and bittersweet goodbyes for me. The day

signaled an end to a 7-month long journey of volunteering with a local senior in my area.

Eastside Friends of Seniors provides housekeeping, yardwork, and even digital services to local seniors via a large web of volunteers. My senior no longer

needed the services, so it was time to part ways. We spent that final visit reflecting on

the time we had shared.

Over the past nine months, I have developed a deep understanding of the challenges

many seniors, and other vulnerable populations, face in our communities. Isolation,

difficulty maintaining a home, and navigating financial matters are just a few of the

hurdles they encounter. Even in communities with programs designed to help, these

needs often go unmet. Through Eastside Friends of Seniors, volunteers can help

alleviate these hidden burdens by providing services and building relationships with

them.

By visiting my senior every other week, I transitioned from simply a temporary volunteer

to a confidant. We shared conversations over Hallmark movies, family stories, and

cherished memories, giving me a glimpse into her life and experiences. Paintings and

photos hung on the walls are little mementos that sit collecting dust waiting for someone

to tell their stories.

Ironically, I also learned a little more about myself through this experience. I honed

practical skills, from time management and efficient cleaning techniques to problem-

solving for unique challenges, such as working around medical conditions or tackling

stubborn stains to even pest control.

This experience has transformed my outlook on aging and community care. Eastside

Friends of Seniors not only helped my senior maintain her independence but also gave

me the opportunity to connect, learn, and grow in ways I never expected. I’ve been able

to experience the joy in giving back to my community, and I’ve gained a humbleness

and respect for the hidden lives of others. I am deeply grateful for this chapter of my life

and look forward to the next time I can serve a senior in need.

Interested in a fulfilling volunteer experience? Explore opportunities at eastsidefriendsofseniors.org/volunteer and discover how you can make a difference.