BEREA—Volunteers are the fuel that runs Berea Home Village. The non-profit is part of a village-to-village network that connects volunteers to community elders age 50 and older so they can thrive in their own home as they age.

Berea Home Village's aim is to help prevent isolation, while promoting independence, health, and a sense of purpose in the lives of its members. Studies have shown these are the factors which help to reduce overall cost of care in the elderly, while contributing to their quality of life.

Berea Home Village is seeking enough volunteers to help create teams of two volunteers per every member. Currently, the organization has 63 members and 93 volunteers, or about 1.5 volunteers to every member we serve.

The roles volunteers fill range the gamut from helping with tasks around the house, to making weekly calls on behalf of our members, or providing rides.

At this time, Berea Home Village's top priority is finding individuals to assist with transportation. Many members need help getting to doctor’s appointments in Lexington, or may even just need a ride to the grocery store. Some members do not have the ability to drive or may not own a vehicle.

Volunteers provide the vehicle and transport service, but Berea Home Village will train you on how to assist members, depending upon their specific needs.

To volunteer, please register to attend the next volunteer orientation at Berea City Hall on Thursday, August 27th, from 9:45 am to 1:00 pm. Lunch will be provided.

For more information, call Berea Home Village's director, Katie Heckman, at 859-358-8610 or email her: