News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
The Upper Cumberland Development District is seeking additional volunteers for its Public Guardianship program.
Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator Melinda Bilbrey said that volunteers would serve as companions for clients who rely on Public Guardians to manage their affairs.
“They would be visiting with clients, developing relationships with them, maybe doing small errands or small chores for them,” Bilbrey said. “Just acting as another set of eyes and ears checking on these people who may not have a lot of others in the community with whom they have a relationship.”
Bilbrey said that many clients have been victims of financial abuse or other types of elder abuse. She said that this program plays an integral part in the survival of those who don’t have others to rely on.
Bilbrey said that right now, they are serving about 60 clients throughout the Upper Cumberland area. She said that they expect that number to rise following COVID, particularly because their services are a great need in the area.
“It is essential to the survival of many of the clients because they’re unable to even manage their finances or seek appropriate help,” Bilbrey said. “They might not be able to care for themselves physically, and they might not be able to find the help they need, the appropriate help, inside the community.”
Bilbrey said that if you’re looking to make a difference in someone’s life, then this volunteer opportunity is for you. She said that those interested can contact her at UCDD at 931-432-4111
