Canyon Sages Seeks Volunteers

By Linnea Richards

One of Topanga’s best kept secrets is the Canyon Sages shouldn’t be a secret and now it’s time for residents to rally to its noble cause.

The Canyon Sages’ roots go back to 2009 when it got its official name. Before that it was a handful of folks volunteering to offer fun activities for seniors and watch over Topanga’s most vulnerable residents, the elderly, the infirm and the homeless in some cases.

COVID hobbled the Sages, shrinking its numbers as many of our volunteers are retirees who have moved away, developed health issues, or passed away, so we find ourselves short of Topangans who are willing to share their expertise and good-hearted service.

Volunteer Meeting, March 16!

Meet the Board members and volunteers in the beautiful Sages classroom at the Topanga Community Center (TCC), enjoy refreshments, meet new friends, connect with old friends, learn about volunteer opportunities and bring your ideas for new programs, classes and services. Coffee, tea, cookies and cake will be served.

If you are recently retired, semi-retired and want to join or volunteer:canyonsages@gmail.com; or Linric10@hotmail.com.

Why You Should Volunteer.

Today the Canyon Sages is a fullservice, dues-free organization for seniors that is facilitated by current Board Members, President James Grasso, Velvet Marshall, Susan Clark, Wendy Forrester, Karen Dannenbaum, John Coffer and Susan Wiebusch.

Social Services: One of the founders, Michele Johnson, began her career in social work and was President for the first years. Susan Clark now leads the social services effort with volunteers Tam Taylor, Wendy Forrester, Linnea Richards and Michele Johnson.

Most of us offering services are retired professionals—Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, Family Law, Health Care and Home Care.

Most cases are temporary until solutions are found and involve support for elders recovering from surgery, needs for housing, transportation or help navigating the Topanga terrain. However, no expertise is required, just good-hearted willingness to serve by offering transportation, meals, shopping or research into County services. Handyman skills are also in demand, especially after the recent deluge.

There was one case where the Sages stepped in to help an elderly Topangan in the early stages of dementia who was being scammed.

In an emergency, call 9-1-1 first, but assistance is available at the Sages emergency hotline for seniors at: (310) 455-7268, or thecanyonsages@gmail.com

Sometimes it is frustrating to work with our County services; the