Hearts and Minds in Action
by Charli Depner
“Sometimes even a small act by a volunteer can contribute significantly to a member’s quality of life,” says Dr. Hilda Hernández-Gravelle, Director of Member Support at Ashby Village. In a recent conversation, Hernández-Gravelle described how the Caring and Social Care Teams are there for members. She wants readers to know about available member support programs and invites everyone to consider volunteering for them.
Healthier Aging Initiative
Live a Healthier Lifestyle: The Healthier Aging Initiative seeks to encourage “Healthy Aging” at Ashby Village by sponsoring fitness classes, hikes and neighborhood walks, and by keeping members up to date on the latest research through our Ashby Village Newsletter. They are also happy to consult with you if need help starting a fitness program.
Connection Team
Connect: Volunteers on the Connection Team regularly pair up with a member to go for a walk, read a book, share a common interest, or just enjoy a good conversation and company. “Ashby Village members are amazing people with incredible histories and fascinating backgrounds,” observes Dr. Hernández-Gravelle. “It’s a two-way street. People get together, and if they connect, it can blossom into a meaningful friendship. Some have been going on for two or three years.”
Caring Team
Get Through a Rough Patch: “Activities of the Caring Team demonstrate that we are a real community that is there for you in good times and bad,” she continues. When someone experiences injury, illness, or loss, volunteers reach out and lend a helping hand. Volunteers can water plants, walk a dog, contact people who need to be reached, or check in to see how the member is doing.
Social Care Team
Manage a Transition: Retired and semi-retired clinical professionals on the Social Care Team lend their expertise to help members cope with challenges, changes, and crises that come up as we age. The team helps members manage the situation and locate needed professional referrals, assessments, and resources both within and outside Ashby Village.
For more information, contact
Hilda Hernández-Gravelle
Director of Member Support
hildahg@ashbyvillage.org
(510) 204-9200