Village by the Shore Fall/Winter 2015
Staff Spotlight Eileen Dillon-Gantert As Community Initiatives Coordinator, Eileen DillonGantert serves as the leader to more than 250 volunteers ranging in age from 5 to 95 years old. Eileen joins JFS with a background in event management and planning. She utilizes her organization skills and creativity to ensure JFS volunteers have a meaningful and fun experience, whether stocking pantry shelves or spending time with seniors. In her role, Eileen manages all aspects of Volunteer services including Friendly Visitors, meal/grocery delivery and events. Recognizing the importance of giving back in the community, Eileen is a volunteer for Gilda’s Club South Jersey in their Noogieland program which offers ongoing support for children affected by cancer.
Samantha McManus Samantha joins JFS as Coordinator for the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), which engages adults (55+) in volunteer services. She is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the program including matching volunteers with community members and fulfilling thousands of hours of volunteer service through friendly visits, transportation, grocery delivery, cancer support and more. By mobilizing seniors to give their time, Samantha helps maintain and strengthen the community while enriching the lives of volunteers and community members. With a background in case management, Samantha has a strong knowledge of social service and community programming. A graduate of Stockton University, Samantha is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Work at Rutgers University. She is also currently training to become a companion for seniors with Dementia.
JFS Village Expands Staff and Services W
hen Village by the Shore welcomed its first member in 2013, the concept of neighbors helping neighbors was introduced to the community. Over the past two years, dozens of members, volunteers and service partners have embraced the Village movement which provides services and socialization to adults 50+. Village by the Shore staff has grown from four to ten employees. This expansion of staffing enables the Village to serve Atlantic County adults and older adults through a variety of programs including transportation, meal delivery, friendly visitors, care coordination and educational workshops. In addition to a highly-qualified team of care coordinators, Village by the Shore management team includes nurses, hospitality service liaisons, Community Initiatives Coordinator and drivers. In fall 2015, Village by the Shore expanded their offerings with representatives located at both Shalom House in Ventnor and Margate Terrace. The hospitality services offered to residents at both locations allows for more integrated services including socialization events, service partner coordination for cleaning services, educational workshops as well as concierge-style support. In the upcoming year, the Village is looking to add activities including luncheons, Card Party, nutritional workshops, health seminars and social events. As the volunteer base continues to grow, members will enjoy more complimentary services including trash valet, technology assistance, pet walkers, and snow removal. To become a part of Village by the Shore as a member, volunteer or service partner, please call 609-822-1109 or visit www.jfsvillagebytheshore.org
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I Special Events I P rogram Spotlight I Winter Preparations 1