The public is invited to visit the new offices of South Whidbey at Home at an open house Oct. 3 from 3 to 5 PM. The inspired group is dedicated to providing quality of life for folks aging in place.
The non-profit has offered services since 2016 to members 55+ who may need a ride to an appointment, light gardening, simple home repairs, companionship and more.
Ross Godwin, a retired home repair man, has volunteered with South Whidbey at Home since its creation in 2016. He is currently the non-profit's vice president. In a current phonecall, he mentioned that South Whidbey at Home works with other organizations such as Hearts & Hammers, Island County Seniors, and hosts educational programs such as rePurpose--a South Whidbey non-profit dedicated to reducing the load at our landfill.
Derik Hoshiko, co-founder of re-Purpose on South Whidbey, has hosted classes for SW@Home. Photo from SW@Home webpage
"We serve 90 to 100 members, and we have about 70 volunteers," Ross noted. "We do everything from driving people to appointments, grocery shopping, reading books to a blind lady-so her daughter can do what she needs to do. I have installed grab bars, smoke detectors and lights."
South Whidbey at Home was founded by the late great Lynn Willeford, whose energy and enthusiasm is responsible for some of the best community organizations on South Whidbey.
Lynn Willeford, founder of South Whidbey at Home, has since passed away. Her legacy lives on with non-profits such as South Whidbey at Home and Hearts & Hammers. Photo from South Whidbey at Home webpage
I've volunteered for South Whidbey at Home and am a better person for having become friends with Urashan from 2018 to 2021, until she passed from her body. Nowadays, when I'm not on a road trip with my husband--as I am now through Dec. 21--I walk with Rachel Swett and enjoy her company.
South Whidbey at Home is now located at 1796 Main Street, Suite 104, in Freeland. The office is located near the elbow of the building that houses State Farm Insurance.
For more information, visit this website.