Catholic Social Services (CSS) announced a bold new community-led initiative in response to recent government funding reductions that have forced the suspension of two long-standing direct service programs for older adults. The “Super Neighbor” volunteer initiative is a renewed call to action inviting everyday Ohioans to become powerful agents of hope, compassion and service to vulnerable neighbors across the 23 counties of the Diocese of Columbus.
AmeriCorps Seniors has historically funded stipends and travel costs for income-qualified seniors to serve as Senior Companions and Foster Grandparents in four counties in central Ohio. These programs have offered seniors a way to give back while earning a little extra money to support their own needs. Due to severe cuts to federal initiatives like AmeriCorps, these programs as structured are no longer possible.
“This is not the path we wanted, but it’s the reality we face,” said Kelley Henderson, president and CEO of Catholic Social Services. “We are prayerfully choosing to respond with faith, creativity and community as we look beyond this moment.”
As of August 20, services for Senior Companion and Foster Grandparent will be suspended in Franklin County. We will continue Senior Companion operations in Delaware, Fairfield and Licking Counties through September 30. If funds are ultimately appropriated in Congress, further updates will be shared.
We are grateful for the more than 100 Companions and Foster Grandparents who have generously served in recent years and continue to explore other ways to engage their knowledge and experience in Ohio. While deeply saddened by the need to scale back certain programs, we remain committed to serving those who rely on us. Over the past 12 months, over 650 isolated seniors relied on weekly visits from CSS companions, and 400 students benefited from grandparents in the classroom.
“We are using this moment as a call to action and to reimagine what compassionate care and accompaniment can look like when backed by the good will of our neighbors,” Henderson said. “This ministry never happens alone, and the Super Neighbor initiative gives us a way to support each other as neighbors serving neighbors. “
The Super Neighbor initiative is a volunteer-powered model that equips local individuals from churches, schools and our community to provide essential services to isolated seniors, students and our neighbors in need. The activities could include:
• Friendly phone check-ins and home visits to isolated seniors
• Assistance to non-emergency medical appointments, the grocery store or a haircut
• Help navigating local resources
• Homework support in a local school
Our Super Neighbor volunteers receive background checks, training and support through CSS to serve safely and effectively. The initiative seeks to reignite the spirit of being a neighbor, one that is core to our Catholic faith tradition and essential to healthy communities.
Anyone 25 years old or older with reliable transportation and willing to give a couple hours a week can become a Super Neighbor. Catholic Social Services is actively recruiting Super Neighbors — you can make a difference.
“You don’t have to wear a cape to be a hero,” Henderson said. “You just have to be the one who shows up when a neighbor needs a hand!”
To learn more or to become a Super Neighbor, visit https://colscss.org/services/senior-services/