Volunteering with Purpose:
How Willing Hearts, Helpful Hands Is Changing Lives

At the Parker Jewish Institute of Health Care and Rehabilitation, we believe compassion is just as powerful as clinical care. Our Willing Hearts, Helpful Hands program pairs trained volunteers with individuals living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive challenges—offering companionship, stimulation and a sense of connection that enhances quality of life. June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of brain health and the impact of Alzheimer's disease. But what many don’t realize is that the impact flows both ways.

The Matching Process: Training with Heart

Volunteers in this program receive specialized training to ensure they understand the nuances of dementia care and emotional sensitivity. From there, we thoughtfully match each volunteer with a care recipient based on interests, communication style and personality. This creates space for genuine connections to form—something we see again and again.

A Spotlight on Marinette Flores

One shining example is Marinette Flores, who has been volunteering since 2017. Witha background in therapeutic recreation and experience working with elderly individuals with dementia, Marinette understands the power of purposeful engagement.

Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, Marinette focuses on each person’s interests and past joys—whether it’s music, games, or sports. One of her most memorable matches is with Angel, a man living with early-onset dementia who, unlike most of her past clients, is close in age to her.

At first, their connection was challenging. But Marinette quickly discovered Angel’s enduring love for baseball. He may not remember everything, but here members the game. Marinette now researches stats, player updates, and game history so they can share meaningful conversations. They also play Dominos, a game Angel enjoys especially because he often wins—a reminder that confidence and joy don’t vanish with diagnosis.

“Even if it’s just a smile or a gleam in their eyes—you know you’ve made an impact, ”Marinette says. “That moment stays with you.”

She especially cherishes the times when families get involved—joining games or providing helpful memory cues that bring even more joy and celebration to each visit.

The Ripple Effect: Benefits for All

· For Care Recipients: Emotional comfort, social connection, cognitive stimulation, and less isolation.

· For Families: Respite and reassurance that their loved ones are engaged and cared for.

· For Volunteers: Personal growth, purpose and the joy of knowing you’ve made someone’s day brighter.

Marinette puts it best: “If you’re thinking about volunteering, just try it. Everyone needs love. And when you give it—you feel it right back.”

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