Who Are The Incredible "Interfaith Caregivers" of South Jersey?

If you've been following along our social accounts, you've probably noticed a few special guests that will be featured on our second episode of the American Dream TV's "Selling South Jersey" series. Of these local guests are the amazing Interfaith Caregivers!

If you've never heard of this organization, you may be wondering why we're featuring them on National TV. Here's everything you need to know about this Haddonfield-based non-profit and how they are changing the lives of senior citizens in our local communities:

Who Are The Interfaith Caregivers?

"Interfaith Caregivers was started in 1990 by Dr. Joan Gault to meet the needs of isolated senior citizens. In its first year of operation, Interfaith Caregivers served 80 clients with the help of 62 volunteers. While Interfaith Caregivers has evolved from its grassroots beginnings, the original vision of neighbors helping neighbors through simple kindnesses hasn't changed. From the beginning, Interfaith Caregivers has relied on community support and volunteers to provide basic free-of-charge services; transportation, shopping, and companionship, that enable residents who are aging or disabled to remain independent."

How Exactly Do The Interfaith Caregivers Help Our Local Seniors?

"Our goal is to provide simple, yet vital services that enable seniors to maintain their independence. The trained volunteers at Interfaith Caregivers:

• Provide door-to-door transportation to and from medical appointments, stores, senior centers, libraries and other destinations.
• Assist clients with vision problems or physical limitations.
• Shop or run errands for those who are unable to do so on their own.

Their Mission Impacts The Lives Of Many Local Seniors

"The seniors in our community have done so much for us. They raised us, taught us, kept us safe and happy. Now’s our chance to return the favor. Our mission is to facilitate independent living by providing supportive volunteer services for people who are 65+ or have disabilities. With a ride and a friendly face, we can support and give thanks to our older neighbors.

What Makes Their Mission So Important In Our Communities?

• Transportation is one of the most concerning issues for seniors, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.
• More than half of all non-driving seniors do not leave their homes because they do not have transportation.
• Seniors want to stay independent. But, more than 20% do not drive at all.
• Without transportation, health may decline. Seniors who do not drive make 15% fewer trips to the doctor and 59% fewer trips to the grocery store.
• Having transportation reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness. Seniors are more likely to have regular contact with friends, family and community members.

Get Involved and Make A Difference

Want to make a difference in the lives of our local communities? Here's their guide on how you can help:

"Volunteers are the heart and soul of Interfaith Caregivers. Our volunteers work in our communities to help our neighbors live independent lives. Interfaith Caregivers’ volunteer opportunities allow you to decide your level of participation based on your schedule. Whether you have a few hours to give each month or are looking to share your professional talents, we have a path to help you #GiveLocal.

Your generous donation of time and talent helps us fulfill our mission and makes a tremendous difference in the lives of your neighbors.

Find out more about the volunteer opportunities available (of all types and skillsets) on their website here: https://www.ifchaddons.org/volunteer 

The path to building a better tomorrow within our incredible local communities, starts today! Join us in supporting the amazing work of the Interfaith Caregivers by getting involved or spreading the word to friends and family! A little goes a long way. And don't forget to tune in to PHL-17 on Sunday, January 29th (time TBD) in support of the Interfaith Caregivers, our South Jersey communities and our team! Stay tuned!