JF&CS News Winter 2011
Posted by Sy Friedland, Chief Executive Officer

Every year, JF&CS touches the lives of more than 30,000 people in 80 communities throughout Greater Boston. We do this important work through the coordinated efforts of professional staff, dedicated board members, generous donors, and committed volunteers. Each year, almost 1,600 volunteers reach into their hearts to give something of themselves to those in need. Yet over and over again I hear from these compassionate men and women that they feel they receive as much as they give.

Like our clients, our volunteers come from all walks of life, but they share a desire to improve the lives of others. Libby Doubilet (pictured on right) from Brookline recently began volunteering for our Friendly Visitor program. A physical therapist with three grown children, Libby visits a 91-year-old woman each week for lunch, shopping, walks, and friendly chats. "I enjoy her personality, what she has to say, her life story, and the fact that we're both mothers. We're a good match. I feel she's given me as much as I've given her," said Libby.

I am grateful to Libby and to all of our volunteers and donors who make JF&CS programs and services possible. Whether you enjoy spending time with new mothers, young families, people with disabilities, fragile elders, or others in need, I hope that, like Libby, you will find some time this year to help a neighbor.

For more information, call 781-647-JFCS (5327) or email your questions via our contact us page.