Faith In Action-Ashland County

Faith In Action-Ashland County connects senior citizens with caring volunteers who provide a variety of services to help the seniors live independently. Faith In Action was started in 2003 with a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Since that time, Faith In Action has built a network of volunteers throughout the county to help seniors. The community civic groups, churches, businesses, and individuals are very supportive of the program. The program is thriving and helping many seniors to remain in their homes.

Faith In Action-Ashland County (FIA-AC) volunteers indicate how much time they would like to volunteer and what services they would like to provide. Volunteer assistance with basic household chores, such as vacuuming and mopping, for an hour or two a week can make a substantial difference in the lives of many seniors. Volunteers with fix-it skills who are able to assist with projects such as painting a handicap ramp, mounting shower grab bars, weatherizing windows, fixing leaky faucets, or programming a special phone for a person with low vision are welcomed. Many youth groups take on community service projects through FIA-AC helping with seasonal chores. Groups and individuals assist with raking, yard clean-up, and window washing in the spring as well as the fall. Volunteers who want to help with snow removal or mowing are matched with one senior to assist throughout the season. Many of those served are primarily home-bound and quite isolated without family members in the immediate area. Some volunteers provide companionship by going weekly to play a game of cards or cribbage, or just to chat with the senior. The program partners with the Pets 'N Pals club which provides volunteers to do home visits with their therapeutic dogs. FIA-AC's Arts & Sports Buddies program links seniors with volunteers who are willing to take the senior to area events and keep them connected with their community. FIA-AC has volunteers who provide occasional respite so caregivers have an opportunity to attend to other duties or replenish their energy. FIA-AC helps seniors in need of assistance with their shopping, either taking the person to the store or doing the shopping for the senior. Seniors can request help with transportation as well. Seniors are very grateful for the help they receive, and volunteers find their time with FIA-AC very rewarding.