REAL Services announced the launch of their very popular program, Elves for Elders today. Volunteer Elves adopt an area senior (s), purchase much-needed gifts from a wish list, and then share the joy of the season as they deliver the presents and watch the sheer joy on the faces of these wonderful women and men who sometimes are neglected during this time of year. Elves for Elders is a great opportunity for individuals, groups or organizations interested in making an elder’s holiday brighter with gifts and kindness to seniors who may not have family or friends who can provide for them. Elves for Elders reach seniors in Elkhart, Kosciusko, LaPorte, Marshall, and St. Joseph Counties.
Now through Friday, November 16, REAL Services is encouraging area businesses, groups, and individuals to make this a very merry Christmas by adopting one or more seniors. For about $50 per senior, the Volunteer Elves work behind the scenes as they fulfill the elder’s simple wishes for blankets, slippers and other basic items that will help them stay warm throughout the sometimes harsh Midwest winters.
According to REAL Services Volunteer Manager, Allen Holt, “The Elves for Elders Program is one of our most popular events, and we are so grateful for the community support. We have 900 seniors waiting to be adopted by generous individuals, groups and organizations throughout the five counties. It is rewarding to know how much joy you are offering this sometimes forgotten population during the Christmas season. I still remember the first time I delivered the gifts to seniors, it was magical, and so appreciated.”
Interested ELVES should contact the REAL Services Volunteer Department by phone at 574.284.7138 or click here to complete a volunteer application, or send an email to allen2@realservices.org.
