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ElderServe
Opportunities
for Students
ElderServe is designed to establish a bridge of care between
Ouachita students and older senior adults of the Arkadelphia
community. Judy Duvall, ElderServe coordinator, sees a need for this
connection. "The senior adults in our community need the energy and
joy young people can share with them, and the young people need the
insight and wisdom from the life experiences of this older
generation. The relationships formed are mutually beneficial."
Individuals
ElderServe works closely with nursing
homes, churches and local agencies to identify those senior adults
who could benefit from a relationship with a student. The student is
asked to commit to a friendship with a senior adult over the course
of a college semester. They meet every week, mainly to just visit.
The student will sometimes help with various tasks such as light
cleaning, reading correspondence and even washing a dog. Each
relationship is unique and is guided by the needs that become
apparent as the friendship develops. In most cases, a genuine
friendship is formed between the student and senior adult.
The team of ElderServe volunteers is
composed of males and females who are from all disciplines of study
on Ouachita's campus. "A servant's heart and a willingness to listen
are all you need to be equipped to be a part of this program," says
Duvall. Howeve, an ongoing instruction is offered throughout
the year as well as meals together to form community among students.
Groups/Social
Clubs
Social clubs are involved with
ElderServe as well. The EEE women's social club has worked with the
older residents of the Arkadelphia Housing Authority, cleaning
apartments and sponsoring a Christmas party. The Tri Chi women's
social club did surveys for the Meals on Wheels program in Clark
County. A power washer team from a men's social club is being formed
to power wash home exteriors, windows, porches, and sidewalks for
older residents of Arkadelphia.
The Classroom
There are also opportunities for
students to be involved through Ouachita classes. Students in the
communications department have created a promotional video about the
Meals on Wheels program in Clark County to assist them in their
fundraising efforts. Opportunities for students in the sociology
department and school of business will be available in the future.
Faculty members and their families are
also encouraged to be involved with ElderServe. Many times these
relationships can help children have a grandparent model if their
extended family lives far away.
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