Volunteering: Helping Others Creates a Stronger and Better Community
A recent study conducted by the American Psychiatric Association found one-quarter of Americans are lonelier today than they were before the pandemic. The World Health Organization has categorized loneliness as an official global public health concern.
The risks posed by the skyrocketing epidemic of loneliness are emotional and physical. Studies have correlated feelings of loneliness with an increased risk of depression. Among seniors, loneliness has been linked with cardiovascular disease, dementia, declines in motor functions, and frailty. Research has shown that loneliness, social isolation, and living alone increase the risk of premature death at a rate similar to that of cigarette smoking or obesity.
At Westchester Jewish Community Services, one of the largest human service agencies in Westchester County, we aim to ensure that no one in Westchester feels alone. Our programs and services help seniors who are struggling with isolation, LGBTQIA+ youth, people with disabilities, individuals and families dealing with mental health problems and substance use, survivors of trauma, youth experiencing educational challenges, victims of crime, and many others facing significant obstacles.
Our dedicated community of volunteers plays an active role in easing isolation, bolstering social connections, and helping people feel cared for. WJCS is fortunate to have a committed corps of volunteers who contribute to our back-to-school and holiday drives, deliver food to homebound seniors, provide companionship to those who are recovering from mental health challenges, and much more. By volunteering, they make our community stronger.
Murray Forseter is one such WJCS volunteer. He estimates that he has delivered 1,600 home-delivered meals to senior residents in Yonkers, Scarsdale, Mount Vernon, White Plains, and Hartsdale since he began volunteering in the WJCS senior food program 15 years ago. Forseter, 75, describes his years of volunteering as “delivering food to the Greatest Generation.”
Forseter marvels at the resilience and courage of the seniors he has met. We, in turn, are deeply grateful for his years of devoted service to WJCS and the care and compassion he has shown our clients. He provided meals…and so much more. He eased their loneliness and provided support and companionship. His commitment to volunteering at WJCS helped so many people in Westchester. What a difference one person can make!
Aristotle wrote, “What is the essence of life? To serve others and do good.” Volunteering is doing good. And doing good feels good!
If you’re interested in volunteering at WJCS, visit https://www.wjcs.com/get-involved/volunteer/ to review our many volunteer opportunities. Contact Michelle Siegel, WJCS Volunteer and Event Associate at (914) 761-0600 x2209 or msiegel@wjcs.com if you have any questions. If you’re interested in having your company participate in WJCS’s Corporate Volunteer Program, contact Jennifer Kaplan, WJCS Director of Development, at jkaplan1@wjcs.com or 914.761.0600 x2227.