Residences at Vantage Point Volunteers Find Purpose and Joy in Helping

At Residences at Vantage Point, a retirement community located in the heart of Columbia, Maryland, volunteering enriches both the community and those who give their time. Residents have embraced the power of giving back, finding that their efforts make a difference in others' lives while bringing purpose and joy to their own.

Judy Dye, a longtime volunteer, embodies this spirit of service. Inspired by her son’s military service, she supports deployed soldiers through Bailey’s Bundles. And it has been a source of mental engagement and community connection for her. “Volunteering keeps me mentally active,” Dye shares. “It allows me to meet diverse people and contribute to the community.”

For Marilyn Donovan, volunteering has provided a renewed sense of purpose after the loss of her husband. She leads a trivia program and participates in the University of Maryland’s Meaningful Moments study, in which volunteers and staff engage residents in activities such as gardening or music to improve quality of life and help reduce behavioral symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

“Volunteering gives me personal fulfillment,” Donovan says. “The joy and gratitude from residents make me happy.” She also ensures that every resident’s milestone is celebrated by delivering them cakes and cards on their birthdays.

Sue and Steve Sternheimer have a long history of community service ranging from supporting seniors by driving for Neighbor Ride to aiding the homeless via the Grassroots Crisis Center. “Volunteering builds community,” Steve notes. “It brings people together to focus on something beyond themselves.”

The value of volunteering in older adults' lives is well documented. According to a recent report, older adults who volunteer experience improved mental and physical health, reduced stress and a stronger sense of purpose. Specifically, 96% of volunteers reported feeling happier, and 78% felt their volunteer work helped them manage their own health challenges.

Ann Swauger, health center life enrichment coordinator at Residences at Vantage Point, sees the impact of volunteerism daily. She matches volunteers with residents based on shared interests. “Our volunteers become like family to the residents they assist,” Swauger explains. “These connections often become the highlight of a resident's day.”

At Residences at Vantage Point, the power of volunteering is celebrated not only for the positive impact on the community but also for the profound fulfillment it brings to those who give their time. Residents continue to prove that making a difference while staying engaged is a cornerstone of a vibrant, meaningful life.

To learn more about Residences at Vantage Point, call 410-992-1241 or visit VantagePointResidences.org.