Sharing the Vision Parish Goals & Objectives 2007-2008 Goal Team 3 Report

GOAL 3:  Establish an outreach ministry to provide services to the homebound, elderly and other parishioners in need, which would include visitation, transportation, home repair, and additional support.
(Team Leader - Pat Beckett) 893-1837
beckettp@gs.ptdiocese.org

In response to the objectives for Parish Goal 3 listed below, the Goal 3 Implementation Team is kicking off a new ministry to the elderly and homebound. Sign up Sunday will be held on April 19, 2008.

MINISTRY FOCUS

The ministry will focus on visits and phone calls to parishioners who would enjoy a regular friendly contact. It will serve those who are unable to actively participate in parish events, but would like to be in touch with other parishioners. Homebound parishioners can also be volunteers in the phone ministry and be a friend to others even though they cannot leave their homes.

Recent studies have shown that the greatest need of seniors and the homebound is companionship - someone to listen, to share stories, to talk about hobbies or family. Other needs such as transportation and repairs will be addressed as the ministry grows.

Family members or friends are encouraged to sign up on April 19 or call the parish office if they know someone who would benefit from a phone call or visit. We will also seek to identify parishioners through contacting other Good Shepherd ministries, such as Communion for the Homebound and Young at Heart.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The Goal Team is working with Elder Care Services and volunteers will be trained and must meet the Diocesan requirements for working with vulnerable people, including fingerprinting and background checks.

Volunteers are needed to make regular phone calls, visit those who are homebound and to serve on the Coordinating Team.

This is a truly rewarding ministry. It affords the reward of helping others, of enriching one's life through new interests and of making a difference in the life of someone who truly does need and appreciate the companionship of the visitor or phone buddy.

Small Christian Communities may want to adopt one or more fellow parishioners and take turns visiting and providing small gifts and cards for celebrations.

GOAL 3:  Establish an outreach ministry to provide services to the homebound, elderly and other parishioners in need, which would include visitation, transportation, home repair, and additional support.
(Team Leader - Pat Beckett)

1. By February 2008, identify parishioners who are homebound and elderly.
   
   
2. By March 2008, identify services and opportunities that are provided by non-profit community organizations for the homebound and elderly.
   
   
3. By June 2008, implement a ministry that reaches out to the elderly and homebound through visitation and telephone calls.