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Arlie is 96 years old. He is also, remarkably, still an avid golfer. Only one thing stands between Arlie and the links: a ride to the golf course. Thankfully, Arlie is a member of Partners In Care Maryland, Inc. (PIC), a service exchange organization that connects older adults with a variety of services that allow them to not only live independently, but to thrive. In Arlie’s situation, a PIC volunteer driver provides him with safe, reliable transportation to play a few rounds.
Today there are 1.4 million people over the age of 60 living in Maryland, a number that continues to grow. The vast majority will age in their homes. PIC is a nonprofit organization that helps those individuals age in place with dignity and respect by providing vital services like transportation, home repairs—even access to personal connections to combat loneliness. The organization offers all generations the opportunity to support the independence of older adults either as volunteer service providers—driving PIC members to appointments is just one example—or by making a donation.
What makes PIC unique is that it is an organization powered by volunteers who directly engage with members. It’s a great way for volunteers to make meaningful connections with older residents in the community while providing essential services to someone in need.
For a PIC member, something as simple as changing a light bulb or fixing a broken storm door can be difficult, even potentially dangerous. PIC’s Repairs With Care program will dispatch a friendly handyman to take care of those seemingly ordinary routine maintenance issues so members can stay safe in their homes.
Through its member care programs, PIC offers everything from expert advice on how older adults can stay safe online to programs that combat social isolation. Its Phone Buddies program, for example, connects volunteers with members ready to hear a friendly voice on the other end of the line. Its Veterans Helping Veterans program fosters multigenerational connection between members of our armed forces.
Imagine the difference it makes in the life of someone living alone, perhaps with no remaining family or none nearby, to have someone who will call and check on them to see how they are doing. Or who will come over to fix a dripping faucet or pick them up and take them to a lunch with friends they may otherwise have missed. PIC is there to provide compassionate, respectful support that gives older adults the quality of life they deserve.
It is a nonprofit fueled by its volunteers and there are many ways to donate. Those able to volunteer their time can fill out the online volunteer application. PIC recently surpassed more than one million volunteer hours exchanged. That’s over a million hours of kindness, care, and community building.
In addition to volunteering as a repairperson, driver, or a subject matter expert for special programs, PIC operates upscale resale boutiques in Frederick and Anne Arundel counties (in Frederick and Pasadena, respectively) that accept donations of items for sale. They’re a great destination for sustainable shopping that benefits the organizational mission. The boutique, its donation intake center—even the PIC office—are predominantly staffed by volunteers.
PIC also offers supports for family members or friends who are caregivers, connecting them to resources that can alleviate some of the stress of caregiving or offer beneficial guidance. And as an organization that has the health and wellbeing of seniors at its heart, PIC acts as an advocate on behalf of older adults.
PIC provides service in Anne Arundel, Frederick, and Mid Shore (Talbot & Caroline County). Ready to get involved? Visit PIC online to learn about services or to volunteer or donate.