Benevilla Connection Fall 2023

THE BENEVILLA

CONNECTION FALL 2023

Member Chuck O. attends Mary’s Place Life Enrichment Day Program

IN THIS ISSUE: Leading with Compassion

Benevilla C.A.R.E.S.

Member Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Empowering Independence

Volunteers Touch Lives.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Breaking Barriers and Building Strength: ............................................................................ 4

2022 ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT

.. . . . . . . 9

Connections to Quality Resources.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 5 Vital Home Services for Homebound Adults.. . . . . . 20

Navigating Together

The Power of Benevilla Caregiver .

Support Groups.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Veteran Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

SAVE THE DATE ®

Dinner

in the Desert

Friday, March 1 st , 2024 at 6 pm The Barn at Desert Foothills East Jomax Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85054 Proceeds from this special evening will benefit the Benevilla programs and services that enrich the lives of West Valley older adults, adults with disabilities, children, and the families who care for them.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available • For details visit www.Benevilla.org/Dinner2024

Sincerely, Joanne Thomson, Benevilla President and CEO

3 THE BENEVILLA CONNECTION

After a very hot and seemingly never-ending summer, the cooler weather is here (hopefully ), and all of us at Benevilla are busy working hard to continue serving the community by providing a variety of life enriching services to help meet the growing needs of those we serve.

Caregiving for a loved one is a taxing 24/7 job, and Alzheimer’s Disease is projected to continue its exponential rise as a health crisis in Arizona. Currently 150,000 people over the age of 65 have Alzheimer’s, and 8.9% of people aged 45 and older are experiencing subjective cognitive decline.

By 2025, the number of people over the age of 65 with Alzheimer’s in Arizona increases to 200,000, a 33.3% increase. With 2025 right around the corner, Benevilla and our cadre of senior related programs and services is needed more now than ever. Our Life Enrichment Day Programs, Support Groups, and C.A.R.E.S Resources and Information are here to help. Please reach out to our Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. resource line at (623) 526-4404 to get connected, or plan to join us on Friday, October 27th for our Caregiver Connect event.

We are excited to bring you our 2022 Annual Impact Report showcasing many of the amazing moments and memorable experiences shared, including the grand opening of Benefitness Adaptive Gym, which just celebrated their one-year anniversary.

The work we do here at Benevilla is only possible because of you and your support, thank you! And I can’t wait to see what else we can accomplish together for our community.

FALL 2023

A Note From Benevilla’s President & CEO

FALL 2023

BREAKING BARRIERS AND The Impact of Benefitness Adaptive Gym After One Year THE BENEVILLA CONNECTION

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Coach Robert Biggs works with Jackie Vega on reaction time. Tossing the medicine ball helps to develop eye hand coordination, builds core strength, and improves the cardiovascular system.

From relearning to walk after life-altering events to reclaiming mobility through innovative therapies, each achievement of Benefitness members reminds us of the resilient human spirit.

Over the last year, Benefitness members, trainers, and staff have forged a strong bond, a close-knit community of mutual support and shared aspirations. As we celebrate our one-year anniversary, we highlight a selection of our members’ incredible accomplishments.

A STROKE SURVIVOR FINDS RENEWED STRENGTH After experiencing a stroke, Jackie Vega faced the daunting challenge of relearning basic activities and regaining her independence. She embarked on a regimen of physical therapy to help her regain her strength and mobility, but she wanted more. She was determined to push herself further and explore

her limits in a safe and guided environment. It was then that she heard about Benevilla and their new fitness center, Benefitness, a place where she could not only enhance her physical capabilities but also foster confidence.

A year in, Jackie is not only physically stronger but also mentally resilient. Consistent exercise elevated her overall

fitness, significantly improving her well-being.

Jackie’s story showcases resilience and the impact of seeking the right resources.

From stroke survivor to empowered individual, we are reminded that recovery is not solely about bouncing back – it’s about moving forward with newfound strength and confidence.

cle and Benefits of boxing include building mus tion, dina coor and strength, improving balance th. heal and boos ting cardiovascular

It’s evident that the staff and equipment have played a significant role in Sean’s journey. Having access to expert trainers, such as Lorrie Karn, Director of Benefitness, provides him with valuable guidance and encouragement tailored to his unique situation.

Sean has recently started to use the Neofect Smart Glove, at Benefitness, an innovative interactive device worn on

the hand to assist in restoring function to the hand, wrist, arm, and shoulder.

The camaraderie and support Sean receives from fellow members has given him a sense of purpose and a platform to encourage others thereby enhancing his own mental resilience and positivity. “Everyone who comes in here is trying” says Sean, “and they have my heart.”

TURNING DIAGNOSIS INTO DETERMINATION In September 2022, David Tondini’s life took a new trajectory when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). The diagnosis coincided with his retirement from a career as a RN Anesthetist. However, this diagnosis didn’t deter him – instead, it became a catalyst for his transformational journey at Benefitness.

Fueled by determination to maintain his quality of life, David embraced physical fitness as a cornerstone of his health journey. Attending three classes a day, he found himself immersed in a routine that not only challenged his limits but also provided him with a renewed sense of purpose.

With retirement marking a new chapter, he jokes that his commitment to Benefitness has become his new job.

Beyond the classes, David has explored the gym’s array of

equipment and free weights, crafting a comprehensive fitness regimen tailored to his needs.

David appreciates the structure that the Benefitness program brings to his training.

At the heart of what draws him back day after day lies in the exceptional staff and the vibrant community of fellow members.

The trained professionals not only guide him through workouts but also provide him with the support and expertise necessary for managing his condition effectively.

David’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of physical activity and community support. In the face of a Parkinson’s diagnosis, he didn’t merely adapt; he thrived. His story underscores the importance of finding spaces like Benefitness, where trained guidance, camaraderie, and personal determination converge to uplift individuals in their pursuit of a healthier and fulfilling life.

David Tondini attends three classes per day in addition to training with free weights and using the gyms adaptive equipment.

5 THE BENEVILLA CONNECTION

FROM CHALLENGE TO TRIUMPH Sean Willy maintains a positive attitude in the face of multiple challenges. Dealing with a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis, (MS), can be extremely tough, but Sean’s strength and determination shine through.

MS symptoms can vary widely, and Sean’s symptoms primarily effect the right side of his body. Despite these obstacles, Sean’s decision to participate in Stretch and Boxing classes shows his commitment to “fighting back” against his diagnosis.

FALL 2023

BUILDING STRENGTH:

Benefitness Looks to the Future FALL 2023

New Technologies Offer New Possibilities in Recovery and Fitness

THE BENEVILLA CONNECTION

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“Benefitness is consistently advancing our offering of specialized services, in addition to classes, to help improve the quality of life for our members and improve their strength, balance, and agility, which in turn improves their abilities to perform routine tasks of daily life” says Benefitness Director Lorrie Karn. “We look forward to helping you start your health and wellness journey.”

SMART GLOVE This interactive device, the Neofect Smart Glove, is worn on the hand to improve hand, wrist, and finger agility as well as shoulder mobility. It measures movements of the forearm, wrist, and fingers using sensors which provide a quantitative measurement of dexterity and mobility. The Smart Glove works interactively through entertaining games and activities on a tablet to increase hand and arm movement as well as functionality.

BIO-IMPEDANCE ANALYSIS (BIA) TOOL The BIA tool is a non-invasive, fast, and easy test used to monitor health by looking at body composition, specifically the percentage of body fat, lean body mass, and water content in a person’s body. You simply stand on the device and hold the hand electrodes. The device works by passing a safe and low-level electrical current through the body. The electrical current travels through the water present in muscle, fat, and other tissues at different speeds due to variations in their density and water content. By measuring the impedance (resistance to electrical flow), the BIA device can estimate the proportions of the body (e.g., lean tissue, fat tissue, water content, skeletal mass, etc).

For more information: call (623) 584-0065 or visit www.Benefitnessgym.org

Leading with Compassion

r e e t n u l o V

7 THE BENEVILLA CONNECTION

Darlene Turner’s journey with Benevilla began as an employee, but her passion and dedication soon propelled her into the role of program director. For 22 years, she served the organization and the community it supports. In 2018, Darlene decided to retire, but her bond with Benevilla endured. As she puts it “Benevilla is in my blood,” and she soon found herself volunteering.

Darlene’s volunteer work is driven by her genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others. From being a supportive phone pal for homebound older adults to ensuring that grocery essentials reached those in need, and providing transportation to medical appointments, Darlene seamlessly transitioned into various roles.

She readily steps in to assist at the Life Enrichment Programs when extra help is needed, demonstrating her flexibility and dedication. Her involvement extends to serving as an exercise coach, impacting the lives of individuals across various programs, including Benefitness.

Darlene also takes on the role of a welcoming presence at the reception desk,

FALL 2023

There are many rewarding, creative, and exciting ways to partner with Benevilla in service to the community. People helping people, supporting neighbors and friends, is our foundation.

where she warmly greets children and their families, program members, and caregivers.

Her friendly demeanor and genuine care brighten the days of those who walk through Benevilla’s doors.

Darlene’s lifelong commitment to serving others stands as a testament to the core values and mission of Benevilla.

In embracing her calling to give back to the community, she has not merely retired, but rather transformed her retirement into a vibrant journey of compassion and service.

Her legacy as a Benevilla volunteer is etched in the lives she touches.

Become a Partner in Hope

Benevilla has many volunteer opportunities to make a meaningful difference and develop close relationships that will enrich your life and the lives of others.

To become a Benevilla volunteer apply online at Benevilla.org or email our Volunteer Services Department at volunteers@benevilla.org or call 623-584-4999.

Member Spotlight

FALL 2023

A Colorful Life with Passion and Purpose

THE BENEVILLA CONNECTION

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won the lottery she would love to travel to Ireland.

HOME AND COMPANIONSHIP A part of the Helping Partners Life At home, Maeve shares her life with Enrichment Day Program (HPP), her sister and brother-in-law. Also Maeve Rooney has been a vibrant adding warmth and companionship and valued member since 2010. to their home are two dogs.

Although she enjoys a variety of activities at HPP, her favorite is painting.

Maeve’s journey within our program is Maeve’s father, driven by his own love for enriched by her artistic pursuits, intellectual painting, introduced her to this captivating world. interests, and the bonds she has formed. We are Maeve paints a variety of subjects, but many of delighted to have her in the Benevilla family and her paintings feature nature and animals. Most of look forward to her many future creations. the time she paints on canvas with acrylic paint, but occasionally challenges herself with watercolors.

She finds inspiration on Pinterest, through photos and with her imagination.

BEYOND THE CANVAS Maeve’s visual creations are not limited to painting. She uses patterns to create intricate colorful needle work designs.

Maeve is also intrigued with word and puzzle games. She is a daily player of Wordle. Other interests include watching TV dramas such Needlework in process as NCIS and CSI. And she says if she

A collection of Maeve Rooney’s acrylic paintings.

The Helping Partners Life Enrichment Day Program is designed specifically for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Benevilla strives to provide each program member with life-enriching, fulfilling and purposeful programming to help them accomplish their goals.

MPAC

A N N UA L I M PAC T R EP OR T

®

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Enriching Lives.

2022 BENEVILLA ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT

ENRICHING LIVES:

Through Service to the Community

LIFE ENRICHMENT DAY PROGRAMS

Benevilla’s four programs provide respite for family caregivers while caring for older adults with dementia, adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, stroke survivors, and those with Parkinson’s Disease. Members have the opportunity to connect with others in meaningful and enriching ways, including the intergenerational program at Lucy Anne’s Place.

C.A.R.E.S. INFORMATION & RESOURCES

The Community Assistance, Resources, Education & Support, (C.A.R.E.S.) department has highly trained Resource Coordinators who use an extensive community resource database to find solutions for issues affecting seniors, families, caregivers and others in need. In addition, they facilitate a variety of support groups, educational workshops and events.

HOME SERVICES VOLUNTEER-BASED

Home Services, provides home bound, isolated or disabled older adults with a little extra assistance and resources to help maintain their independence. Our volunteers help with free home services including: rides to medical appointments, grocery shopping, emergency errands, friendly visitor & phone pals, business assistance, and light handyman services.

WIRTZIE’S PRESCHOOL & CHILD CARE

Wirtzie’s accredited preschool and childcare program provides a safe and nurturing environment for children ages six weeks to five years old to learn and discover through play.

The intergenerational program provides structured time for the children to spend with older adults at Lucy Anne’s Place through meaningful interactive activities.

79% of caregivers surveyed feel

emotionally drained caring for a loved one.

89% of caregivers surveyed who have a loved

one in Benevilla’s Life Enrichment Day Programs felt it improved their quality of life.

98% of Benevilla members and their

spouses/caregivers surveyed would recommend Benevilla programs and services to a family member or friend.

85% of the Home Services members surveyed believe that the program has helped maintain their independence.

97% of parents of Wirtzie’s Preschool &

Childcare children surveyed say their child is generally happy, relaxed, and engaged in activities while attending the program.

92% of spouses/caregivers of Benefitness

members surveyed say that Benefitness has helped them keep their loved one at home longer.

BENEFITNESS ADAPTIVE GYM

Benefitness provides specialized individual and group fitness instruction serving those in our community with different abilities, special considerations, and ongoing clinical needs.

BENEVILLA 2022 IMPACT IN THE COMMUNITY 48,807 Acts of Care and Compassion | 6,998 Individual Lives Enriched

IMPACT We share some highlights along the bottom of each page

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2,643

HOME SERVICE ACTS PROVIDED BY BENEVILLA VOLUNTEERS

Grocery Shopping, Transportation, Friendly Visitors/Phone Pals, Handyman Services, Errands, Business Assistance, and Holiday Meal Delivery

2022 BENEVILLA ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT

VOICES OF GRATITUDE :

Stories from Lives Touched

“I would highly recommend the Life Enrichment Day programs to anyone needing a break from caregiving. Just knowing your loved one is being treated with kindness, caring, and respect makes a world of difference.”

“I’m amazed at the improvement I’ve seen with several areas of concern in just 2 weeks of attending classes at Benefitness.

These classes are just what I’ve needed.”

“I was so nervous to drop off my 6 month old daughter at daycare for the first time. Wirtzie’s took all of that worry away our first day. Their staff is so caring and attentive, they treat the children as their own. The staff is fabulous and are always providing updates throughout the day. I can’t thank the Wirtzie’s team enough for giving me piece of mind throughout the day and for treating my baby as their own.”

“Thanks to all for making mom so comfortable and giving her the opportunities to laugh and share happy moments with others. Mom loves coming to Mary’s Place, and I love bringing her, knowing she will have a better day just for being there.”

“The support group is a good place to share ideas and to know I am not the only one who is going through these challenges.”

“Wirtzie’s Preschool and Child Care is fantastic, and we are so blessed to have found them for my daughter!”

“My sister loves to participate in the Intergenerational activities. She always says that each child is a precious granddaughter or grandson, and they always have so much fun!”

“Thank you for your assistance over the last 3 years in helping me keep my independence at home. Your Home Services Staff and Volunteers have been extremely kind and helpful during my times in need.”

“The Benevilla Helping Partners Day and Group Supported Employment Programs are truly facilitating my sons’ growth of becoming a higher functioning adult in our society. Benevilla and the donors that help fund these programs are blessings in our lives for which we are forever thankful.”

IMPACT C.A.R.E.S. WALK-IN’S AND CALLS

Families and Individuals Who Received Resources

2,527

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2022 BENEVILLA ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT

FINANCIAL OVERVIEW SOURCES OF SUPPORT Participant Fees Grants Donations Other (Employee Retention Tax Credit, Other Income) In-kind Donations Investment Return

80%

$2,639,509 $2,223,262 $1,247,458 $496,418 $141,375 ($754,915)

of every donation directly supports Benevilla programs and services.

$5,993,107

HOW YOUR SUPPORT HELPED Program Services: Life Enrichment Programs Child Care Center Family Resource Center Food Services Home Services Benefitness Adaptive Gym Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. Volunteer Recruitment & Training Community Garden Supporting Services: Management & General Fundraising (Sustaining and Expanding Our Services) Total:

$2,627,734 $1,019,771 $720,767 $348,279 $242,984 $240,750 $181,125 $96,853 $5,523

$916,188 $506,183

$6,906,157

OUTSIDE ACCREDITATION

IMPACT

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126,130

LIFE ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS

Hours of Caregiver Respite

2022 BENEVILLA ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT

THE POWER OF MOMENTS FUN AND ENRICHMENT

Our four programs, Lucy Anne’s Place, Mary’s Place, Helping Partners, and West Valley offers our members the opportunity to experience a variety of engaging daily activities including exercise, entertainment, education, games, creative expression, and celebrations.

DANCE AT LUCY ANNE’S PLACE

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION AT WEST VALLEY

PARTNERS

: A LO O K B A 202 2 C GRAND OPENING

The Benefitness Adaptive Gym opened it’s doors in July of 2022 with the goal of serving and improving the health and wellness of those in the community with different abilities, special considerations, and ongoing clinical needs.

A

CE

GAMES AT HELPING

GROUP SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT

K AT

THE

BRE AKFAST AT

M

’S AR Y

PL

I M PA C T M A D E CELEBRATING TOGETHER

Benevilla hosted their first “Dinner in the Desert” fundraising event held in March 2022. Proceeds raised at the event went to support the Benevilla mission of enriching lives.

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

SPECIAL CONNECTIONS

The Benevilla Family Resource Center held Community Baby Showers for expectant and new moms.

Benevilla received a generous grant from the Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation to support our Intergenerational Program.

The program brings members of Lucy Anne’s Place and Wirtzie’s together to share activities and cherished moments.

DISCOVERING FUN AND LEARNING

At Wirtzie’s Preschool & Child Care, a new rug inspired fun and learning, children searched for treasure at the Easter egg hunt, and infants explored new spaces.

IMPACT VOLUNTEERS

Total Volunteer Hours Serving Our Community

11,011

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2022 BENEVILLA BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR

Shannon R. Arriola, MC Arriola & Associates, Inc. Wellness Coaching for Healthcare Professionals, Systems and Organizational Consulting

VICE CHAIR

Pastor Kim Sterner Lord of Life Lutheran Church

PARTNERING FOR GOOD Congratulations to The City of Surprise who was presented with the 2022 Benevilla Business Leadership Award. The City of Surprise has been highly supportive of Benevilla for over 20 years. Through grant funding, sponsorship event support, and in-kind space use, they consistently support the Benevilla mission and encourage our work within the City of Surprise.

SECRETARY

Brian Laurie Edward Jones Financial Advisor

TREASURER

Michael A. Zongolowicz CPA Retired, Community Volunteer John P. Bridgford Merrill Lynch Senior Vice President Merlyn E. Carlson Community Volunteer Oana Constantinescu FirstBank Vice President Joseph V. DeBlasi Community Volunteer Erica Dorward Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center Chief Operating Officer Conrad J. Graff Aviation, Retired Lora G. Johnson Johnson & Associates, PLLC Attorney at Law Birt Kellam A.G. Edwards Corporate Vice President, Retired Dr. Richard E. Stuckey Council for Agricultural Science & Technology Executive Vice President, Retired Dawn Tompkins Arizona Public Service Manager, Customer Technology Product Delivery

Council Member Ken Remley, Council Member Jack Hastings, Council Member Patrick Duffy, Benevilla President & CEO Joanne Thomson, Mayor Skip Hall, Vice Mayor Chris Judd, Council Member Aly Cline, Council Member Roland Winters, Benevilla Vice President of Donor Relations Sara Villanueva

Mayor Skip Hall and the City Council members are dedicated ambassadors for Benevilla and continually look for ways to partner in creative ways. When the City had to shut down their in-person meal program at the Senior Center during the Covid-19 pandemic, they engaged Benevilla to help prepare and deliver hundreds of hot, freshly prepared meals to those in need in the community. The City of Surprise has also partnered in a community initiative with Benevilla and Rio Salado in support of the Surprise Community Garden, on Benevilla’s main campus.

While presenting the award, Benevilla President and CEO Joanne Thomson said: “We are so grateful that the City of Surprise is so generous and are strong advocates and supporters of the work Benevilla does in the community. I sincerely thank them for everything they do for us.”

IMPACT

Larry H. Vering, CPA, CGMA Community Volunteer

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334

HOMEBOUND OLDER ADULTS

Were Supported and Remained Living Independently With the Assistance From Benevilla Home Services

2022 BENEVILLA ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT

A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP Jane Willis was awarded the 2022 Benevilla Bill Wolfrey Community Service Award which is named in memory of one of the founding members of Benevilla, Bill Wolfrey. Jane was honored for her outstanding commitment, support, and service to Benevilla and to our community. Her passion for helping others has been unwavering.

Jane was introduced to Benevilla by her late husband, Noel Willis, and through the years their support and advocacy for the organization grew. She has been known to say, “I married into Benevilla”.

Jane began her personal involvement with Benevilla by serving on a task force. She then joined the Benevilla Board of Directors and later served as Board Chair from 2015-2016.

Benevilla COO Anthony Valencia, Board Chair Shannon Arriola,

As an occupational therapist who worked with Honoree Jane Willis, President & CEO Joanne Thomson, Vice individuals with developmental disabilities and President of Donor Relations Sara Villanueva pictured. children, she brought unique experience to development and oversight of Benevilla programs such as Wirtzie’s Preschool and Child Care, and the Intergenerational Program. When the former Benevilla President & CEO, Michelle Dionisio, announced her retirement in 2016, Jane was able to continue to advance the agency as well as lead the search committee for Michelle’s replacement.

Jane expressed her service to Benevilla and the community best: “My late husband, Noel, and I have been strong supporters of Benevilla by giving our time, our talents, and our financial resources throughout the years. We reaped the benefits of being volunteers with a terrific organization and learned new skills, made good friends, and shared the warm fuzzies of doing something useful for our community.”

We are extremely thankful to Jane for her support, volunteerism, and friendship over the years!

Please consider leaving a lasting legacy to Benevilla as a recipient in your will or estate plan. To learn more, please contact Sara Villanueva, Vice President of Donor Relations at 623-584-4999 or svillanueva@benevilla.org

IMPACT SUPPORT GROUPS

Attendees Who Found Comfort While Caring For or Grieving For a Loved One

1,634

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BENEVILLA C.A.R.E.S.

FALL 2023

Connections to Quality Community Resources

THE BENEVILLA CONNECTION

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Benevilla works hard to connect you to the highest quality community resources. The Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. Department provides resource-based assistance by accessing and managing an extensive database of seniororiented support services, products, and providers throughout Arizona. Our coordinators use these resources to find tailored solutions for issues and challenges affecting older adults, families, caregivers, and others in need.

As part of the C.A.R.E.S. Program, the Preferred Partner Program was started in 2014.

It consists of local senior-centric organizations supporting the Benevilla mission, who have been carefully vetted, are ethical to the best of our knowledge, and are leaders in their professional community. When you are connected to a Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. Preferred Partner you can be assured you will receive high quality and professional service.

Hospice of the West was the first organization to join the Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. program and has continued to be a great community partner. Their Senior Community Liaison, Sylvia Butler, has been a huge supporter of the Benevilla mission in the

community since the beginning. She has facilitated support groups, led educational workshops, assisted many of our members and partners and has worked side by side with Benevilla to support older adults in our community in need.

“I love helping people and have developed a wonderful relationship with Benevilla, which began many years ago” says Sylvia. “I am honored to serve the community and very blessed to work alongside Benevilla.”

EMPOWERING INDEPENDENCE Five Free Vital Home Services for Homebound Older Adults

As we age, certain daily tasks and responsibilities become increasingly challenging to manage on our own. For homebound older adults, these challenges can be particularly daunting. Benevilla C.A.R.E.S volunteers provide a variety of free services to help older adults remain in their homes.

1. Grocery Shopping: Home Service Coordinators match volunteers with clients in need of assistance.

Volunteers take care of the entire process from collecting the grocery list to shopping at participating grocery stores.

2. Assisted Transportation: Older adults who can no longer drive often face challenges reaching important appointments like medical visits. Our reliable volunteers offer door-to-door transportation, ensuring members reach their appointments safely and return home.

3. Business Assistance: As we age, managing personal, business, and financial matters can become complex. Our trained volunteers visit

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17 THE BENEVILLA CONNECTION

members at home, providing assistance with paperwork and bill management, reducing the stress of handling these tasks alone.

4. Handyperson: Need someone to replace an air filter or change that lightbulb? Volunteers make minor home repairs for those who are unable to manage these tasks themselves.

5. Friendly Visitors & Phone Pals: Loneliness and isolation can affect your well-being. Friendly Visitors offer home companionship, including activities and chats, while Phone Pals make regular calls for enjoyable conversation and wellness checks, fostering a sense of connection.

By connecting homebound older adults with caring volunteers, these services not only meet their practical needs but also foster meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging within the community.

NAVIGATING TOGETHER

The Power of Benevilla Caregiver Support Groups

FALL 2023

Often the best thing caregivers can do for their loved one is to take care of themselves both physically and emotionally. Benevilla support groups are a great place to recharge and connect with other caregivers.

THE BENEVILLA CONNECTION

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As the silver wave of aging continues to crest, the impact of Alzheimer’s and dementia is becoming increasingly pronounced. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, a staggering one in three seniors meets their twilight years with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.

This statistic underscores not only the prevalence of these conditions but also the profound burden placed on the shoulders of caregivers. In Arizona alone, there are 261,000 unpaid caregivers who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to caring for loved ones battling Alzheimer’s or dementia.

However, amidst these sobering statistics, there is a ray of hope that shines brightly: caregiver support groups. These groups provide a lifeline for those navigating the turbulent waters of caregiving, offering a

“261,000 unpaid caregivers in Arizona caring for a loved one”

— Alzheimer’s Association

sense of community, understanding, and a safe space to share their experiences.

First and foremost, support groups offer a sense of belonging. Caregivers often feel isolated, as their unique challenges can be difficult for others to comprehend fully. In support groups, they find individuals who are walking a similar path, facing similar trials, and celebrating similar triumphs. This sense of community can alleviate the loneliness that often accompanies caregiving, providing comfort and reassurance.

Caregivers are the unsung heroes of the Support groups also provide valuable healthcare world, their devotion often hidden education. Caregivers can learn about the latest beneath the weight of their responsibilities. advancements in Alzheimer’s and dementia Many of them struggle silently, facing a care, discover effective coping strategies, and range of physical and emotional challenges. gain access to resources they might not have The statistics paint a grim picture: 53.5% of otherwise known about. Knowledge is power, caregivers have chronic health conditions, and for caregivers, it’s a tool that can make their 15.4% battle depression, and 9.9% find journey more manageable. themselves in poor physical health, according Perhaps most importantly, support groups to the Alzheimer’s Association. These are a safe space for emotional release. numbers are stark reminders of the toll Caregivers can openly express their feelings, caregiving can take on those who selflessly whether it’s frustration, sadness, anger, or give of themselves day in and day out. even moments of joy. This emotional catharsis

BENEVILLA IS HERE TO HELP YOU ON YOUR CAREGIVER JOURNEY.

The Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. department offers free friendly and professionally run support groups. Taking care of someone can be difficult. Experiencing the end of a loved one’s life can be lonely. Connecting with peers who are going through similar experiences can make a positive impact on the caregiver’s life. Caregivers also benefit from hearing speakers who can educate and provide answers to many questions.

To learn more about the Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. department and find a list of current support groups visit Benevilla.org/community-resources or call the direct C.A.R.E.S. resource line (623) 526-4404.

FALL 2023

through the trials of caregiving.

In the face of a variety of caregiving challenges, support groups offer a glimmer of hope and a lifeline to those in need. These groups provide a sense of belonging, education, emotional release, and shared experiences that can significantly improve the lives of caregivers and the quality of care they provide. Together, we can navigate the journey of caregiving, one support group meeting at a time.

19 THE BENEVILLA CONNECTION

can significantly reduce stress levels and help caregivers better manage their mental health.

Moreover, the power of sharing experiences cannot be underestimated.

Caregivers can learn from each other’s triumphs and challenges, gaining new perspectives and practical advice. They can also form lasting friendships that extend beyond the support group meetings, creating a network of emotional support that endures

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SURPRISE MAIN OFFICE 16752 N. Greasewood Street Surprise, AZ 85378 SUN CITY WEST C.A.R.E.S. OFFICE 13576 Camino Del Sol #22 Sun City West, AZ 85375 MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 8450 Surprise, AZ 85374 Phone: (623) 584-4999 Fax: (623) 546-1589 TTY: 711 Benevilla is a 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law. Benevilla is partially funded by the Area Agency on Aging Region One, the City of Glendale, the City of Peoria, Dept. of Veterans Affairs, and the City of Surprise. Benevilla is an equal opportunity provider.

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V E T E R A N S P OT L I G H T Joseph Leggio Jr., born in March 1929, in Brooklyn, New York, was drafted into the Armed Forces on January 30, 1951. He completed basic training at Ft. Leonardwood, Missouri, and was then stationed in Marysville, California. Joseph’s previous experience in a men’s store led to his assignment in the Supply Co. A few months later he flew back to Brooklyn and married Roberta Beckman. Following their wedding ceremony, they journeyed back to California in a 1935 Packard and found an apartment in Marysville. Joseph’s dedication and hard work earned him promotions to Corporal and eventually Supply Sergeant.

During their time in California, Joseph’s company played a vital role in the construction of Camp Beale Air Force Base. On January 29, 1953, he was discharged from service. Joseph and his wife returned to Brooklyn where they purchased a home on Long Island, and lived until retirement.

Joseph and Roberta eventually moved to Sun City West, AZ where they have savored their retired life. Joseph developed a passion for lawn bowling and loved to drive his golf cart to the lawn bowling greens every day.

Joseph is a member of Lucy Anne’s Place Life Enrichment Program at Benevilla. He is one of several veterans that we are honored to serve. For more information on the Benevilla Life Enrichment Programs call 623-584-4999 or visit Benevilla.org.