A Friend to Friendship House

Jennifer Starr’s path to volunteerism with the VNA vividly illustrates how the organization is making community connections. After devoting her days exclusively to parenting, Jennifer found herself feeling a bit isolated when her daughter was ready to attend the Dennis B. O’Brien Elementary School full-time. She was considering volunteering but unsure how to get started until she stumbled upon a posting for the VNA through the school principal’s web page.

When Jennifer expressed a desire to help with crafts and provide companionship to the elderly, Volunteer Coordinator Brian Pastor put her in touch with Mayelin Ravelo, Manager of Community Services at Friendship House, the VNA’s adult day center.

“I truly believe that I receive more than I give at Friendship House. This volunteer assignment has been a blessing and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful program,” said Jennifer, who now goes to the center three mornings each week. “I thoroughly enjoy the time I spend with the clients and it’s a pleasure to lend a helping hand to staff members who create such a caring environment and make everyone feel welcome.”

If you’d like to explore volunteer opportunities at Friendship House, please visit vnannj.org or contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 973-451-4128. Friendship House is located in Boonton and volunteers who can spare as little as a couple of hours each week between 8:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. are needed.

Volunteer Jennifer Starr enjoys chatting with the clients. Through her work at Friendship House, she has learned that reminiscing about the past is actually beneficial in helping seniors preserve their cognitive skills.

Friendship House welcomes individuals and groups who want to assist with an array of activities including meals and snacks and therapeutic activities such as pet therapy.