In its first “real” year of operation, Here to Stay in Wintergreen was the driver behind thousands of different interactions that involved its members, volunteers, the Wintergreen community, and others. Some of these efforts in 2022 were one-on-one, and others were small gatherings. A few were big meetings. All were worthwhile.
The impact of any and all of this is immeasurable.
“Here to Stay in Wintergreen is thriving. It’s clear this new organization is here to stay because it is making it practical for more people in our community to age in place.”
What value can one put on our wonderful volunteer drivers who offered dozens of rides to appointments? Some were regularly taking members to appointments north of Charlottesville or Augusta Medical in Fishersville.
How can we measure the usefulness of our speakers who have enlightened our community on complex issues such as hospice, wills, financial planning, and managing dementia?
Our members got help with a wide variety of “little” home projects from HSW volunteers. Is that a small thing?
How important is having friendly help with computers, TVs, and smartphones?
What is the value of the fun and friendship that our writers’ group and monthly coffees regularly offer?
Those involved in our Thoughtful Food program are ready to offer meals to those who need a little support, but they also supplied refreshments and snacks at HSW social gatherings. Who would say that is a minor thing?
How important was HSW's huge Care Fair in November?
What is the value of the HSW Support Group that meets once a month, and is open to the entire community?
Some things simply cannot be measured. But, we do have some numbers that make it clear we are on track.
The number of HSW member households is steadily growing, with some 143 individuals now registered as members. The number of our active volunteers has grown as well, numbering over 50. Attendance at our programs is strong. We have over 500 subscribers to our free email newsletters.
In short, Here to Stay in Wintergreen is thriving. It’s clear this new organization is here to stay because it is making it practical for more people in our community to age in place.
Looking ahead, expect more of the same from HSW, only better. For example. the HSW Care Fair held at Rockfish Valley Community Center is likely to be repeated.
Along the same lines, HSW will be working on expanding and refining its network of service providers for members in the coming year. We'll be seeking out reliable professional enterprises interested in serving those here who want to age in place.
Our effort to have a UVA pharmacy in Nellysford has not been forgotten. It is still in play, but… we’ll be keeping you posted in the coming months.
What else? We’re listening to our members and volunteers, looking for more opportunities to cooperate and innovate. We are looking for ways to fine-tune how HSW members and volunteers connect with each other.
This time last year our community was still in COVID lockdown. Here to Stay in Wintergreen started up cautiously. We are where we are now thanks to our generous supporters and ever-growing membership. We will always be grateful for that support.
More importantly, the many volunteer hours from so many caring individuals have made 2022 a success, no matter how you might measure it. Thank you.
-Kaye Pietrowicz