In praise of volunteers for elderly

This year marks the 40th anniversary of National Volunteer Week (April 6-12).

ElderCARE sends a big "thank you" to all of our volunteers who have been willing to give so freely and generously of their time to help elders in our communities remain healthy, independent and in their own homes.

Some of you may have volunteered with ElderCARE in the past. Some of you may have volunteered once or twice.

Some of you may have volunteered every week. No matter what your participation has been, you have visited elders, shopped for them and provided transportation to medical appointments. Since 1998, you have helped 2,700-plus elders, provided 128,000-plus hours of service and given 18,500-plus round trips to medical appointments in northern Lake County, IL. We are very grateful for your service.

Your efforts are extremely appreciated, not only by ElderCARE, but by the thousands of elders you have helped. During the time they received service, our elders may have been isolated, unable to get nutritious food of their own choosing or unable to get to their health care providers, if it were not for you.

One of the hallmarks of a civilized society is how we treat our older citizens. Many of the elders we serve just need a little assistance. ElderCARE volunteers are part of what makes northern Lake County a good place to live no matter your age.

Thank you, again, ElderCARE volunteers. You are the greatest.

Jill A. Grubbs Director ElderCARE

Waukegan