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| Courtesy
photo |
Committee members for the Foothills Caring
Corps' "Cash & Caring Raffle" prepare
the large bags of cash that will be awarded at the organization's
annual fundraiser held April 3. Proceeds benefit the
corps' programs
including van transportation for the homebound.
(Click picture for larger image) |
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Van
for homebound to roll through town
by
Ambria Hammel
DESERT FOOTHILLS - "The wheels on the bus go round and
round, all through the town." Sounds of this childhood
song don't reverberate inside the Foothills Caring Corps'
van, but its lyrics resonate in the mission of the organization's
Van Program.
The program, which provides transportation for seniors and
other adults to social outings and shopping trips, completed
its first year of operation in January. To keep it and other
services provided to the homebound rolling, the Corps' staff
and volunteers are revving up for its annual fundraiser, the
"Cash & Caring Raffle" held in April.
The van program is supported by proceeds from the raffle and
donations from its passengers. "It has made such a difference
in the lives of those that use it," said Gail Simmons,
director of the Foothills Caring Corps. This service allows
seniors and other homebound adults to enjoy regular shopping
trips, visits to the library, restaurants, dinners, museums,
concerts, sporting events and theatrical performances.
More than 35 volunteer drivers and assistants transport passengers
from their homes in Cave Creek, Carefree, North Scottsdale
and portions of North Phoenix in a 13 passenger mini bus to
approximately 15 destinations every month. Simmons said many
senior citizens want to go places, but can't drive, a fact
illustrated by Leonard Andler who served as the inspiration
for the Van Program.
Caring corps volunteers also conduct in home visits. When
Simmons visited Andler shortly after his wife died, the widower
asked Simmons what was available to get him to plays and symphonies.
The van transportation program became the answer.
"I think it's so important for these people to maintain
a degree of self worth," said Cheryl Simmons, one of
the handful of volunteers who calls the passengers each month
to promote the outings and sign up riders. The passengers
appreciate the opportunity to experience new things. Phyllis
Perry said the trips she takes on the bus help her enjoy activities
that she would never do by herself.
They also appreciate meeting others. "I enjoy all the
people I meet on these trips. We get to know each other and
make it a real social event," said Zella Pyatt.
Debra Determan, coordinator of the van program, often hears
the participants talking about the trips as highlights of
their week. She encourages those living alone or wishing for
more social outings to join the program. |
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The
corps' director worried in the beginning about the length of the
route. Depending on who signs up for each trip, the journey can
make for a lengthy trek through the Desert Foothills. Now she realizes
the route, which volunteer Bill Budris maps out for each driver,
is part of the adventure for the passengers.
Determan said she gets a lot of compliments from the drivers, too.
They say it is a joy to take the passengers, who would not otherwise
have the opportunity, out for the evening.
Some of April's activities include an Easter pageant, a movie, concerts,
a Coyotes game, a museum trip and a library visit. Van transportation
is free and passengers only pay for event tickets, meals and shopping
purchases. Riders can make donations, but the funds do not wholly
cover the costs.
Proceeds from the "Cash & Caring Raffle" fund the
remainder of the program. Prizes are $5,000, $10,000, and $20,000.
Tickets are $100 each or three for $275. Each raffle ticket guarantees
admission for two to the drawing and reception held at El Pedregal
on April 3, although the winner need not be present to win. Guests
will be treated to an evening of cabaret music by Al Raitano, a
mini raffle, along with live and silent auctions.
El Pedregal is located at 34505 North Scottsdale Road. For more
information about the van program, raffle, schedule of trips or
volunteering, call (480) 488 1105.
Reach the reporter at ambria@thedesertadvocate.com |
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