Work life, for too long, was life. My identity was strongly tied to and centered around my job. And do not misconstrue this as a blanket admonition; I have a great position at a company providing valuable services to the community, with some wonderful associates I can call friends. I have earned and been given much, and I needed to give back.
As a human condition, there is a universal search for a purpose, to define a meaningful life. For myself, a fantastic opportunity presented last year, wherein I was gratefully accepted to serve on the Board of Directors for Seniors First.
“Our mission is to enhance the quality of life of seniors by maintaining their independence and dignity.”
–Seniors First – Who We Are
After initial introductions and meetings with executive members of this organization, and prior to joining the Board, I was afforded the opportunity to assist in a delivery route for one of their well known services offerings, Meals on Wheels.
This was a truly rewarding experience. It brought me back to my late teens – with my great-grandfather in his upper nineties and no longer driving, it was my honored duty to bring him over to our house for dinner each night, and take him to his weekly grocery store trips. My family was fortunate, but many others are not. Seniors First steps up with great strength to fulfill this critical need.
Another great offering from Seniors First is the Stepping Stone Medical Equipment Bank. As my father grew ill after his stroke, he required several assistive devices to resume daily living activities. These included walkers, shower chairs, manual and powered wheel chairs, and ultimately an in-home hospital bed. Upon his passing I was able to donate some of these items, but not all. I want to help spread the mission of Stepping Stone, so that others in my position will be able to help as many others as possible.
Seniors First provides several other services, including In-Home Care, Guardianship, and a Food Pantry.
Donations are a significant lifeline to the sustainability of these operations. If you are of the heart and ability, monetary pledges can be made directly here, or you can text FeedaSenior to 76728. Food Pantry and Personal Care Items are additional ways you can support, and can be dropped off at the below location, 5395 LB McLeod Road, Orlando:
Lastly, I extend a huge thank you to the exuberant and compassionate servitude of the staff and leaders of Seniors First. You truly help define what a community is.
Cameron's space 