About Us
South Whidbey at Home is modeled after Beacon Hill Village, a member-based nonprofit started in 2002 in a middle-class Boston neighborhood. Having learned of this successful aging in place model, local legend, Lynn Willeford, decided to create a similar program here on South Whidbey. The goal was to help residents age in place, in the homes and community they loved, by fostering both independence and interdependence – neighbors helping neighbors!
South Whidbey at Home covers South Whidbey from Clinton through Green Bank (zip codes 98236, 98249, 98260, 98253). We provide support for members age 55+ in ways that are a level above the real essential needs, but are necessary for people to continue to age in place, like rides on island (medical and non-medical), grocery shopping, minor household repairs, hauling recycling, social visits, walking buddies, assistance with technology, caregiver respite etc. We also offer fun social events and empowering educational programs. Come into the village now and take advantage of our programs and perhaps volunteer. Then when you need a little help, we’ll be here for you! Neighbors helping neighbors!
Our Mission
South Whidbey at Home is a membership-based nonprofit dedicated to helping older (55+) South Whidbey residents remain in their homes and active in the community they love by providing access to a variety of volunteer services, empowering educational events, and social activities. We are committed to improving the well-being of our members by connecting people in a mutually beneficial way.
Our Vision
SOUTH WHIDBEY AT HOME: Staying active, connected, and in charge
Values
- We focus on our primary mission—to support those aging in our community to live healthy and rich lives.
- We believe the second half of life can be as rich and rewarding as the first half, and that older people have a need and desire to stay active and engaged.
- We operate with integrity and impeccable ethics.
- We depend primarily on local donors. Their support is a measure of how the community values our work.
- We express gratitude to our volunteers by training them well, listening to their needs and suggestions, and thanking them often.
- We collaborate and partner with other organizations so that gaps are filled and services are not duplicated.
- We strive to do the best we can with an attitude of compassion, respect, dignity, and acceptance.
- We respect the privacy of our members and volunteers and maintain the confidentiality of all personal information provided us.
- We work to ensure the personal safety of members and volunteers.
- We recognize when a situation is beyond the scope of our mission.
- We strive to create a community of care in which we take care of our own.
Work on South Whidbey at Home started in March of 2015 and we opened on July 5, 2016. Find out more about the Village model below.
Who We Are
South Whidbey at Home is a neighbor-run nonprofit. Our volunteer board of directors guides our mission, and our small staff team keeps the village running day to day. Together, they’re here to make aging in place possible for everyone on South Whidbey.
“As a volunteer I can say without doubt that my Mom was right: The gift is to the giver. My interactions with Members of SW@Home have been heartwarming and interesting. I think we miss the richness of the many lives lived by some of our most isolated seniors if we don't interact. It's all to easy to become invisible, and a simple conversation lifts the veil and shows us our common humanity.”
Melissa L.
SW@H Volunteer