Caregivers and volunteers join the Care Teams Program for Caregiver Respite at Full Life Care for varying reasons, but what often develops is a deep connection forged by a willingness to commit. Care Teams requires a couple of simple time commitments from volunteers: 4 hours per month for 12 months supporting an unpaid family Caregiver… Read More
CJ and Erica: Just go with the flow From grief to friendship In 2024, CJ was grieving the recent loss of her wife, Carol. A caseworker in her building suggested Full Life Care’s ElderFriends Volunteer Companionship Program as a way to stay connected during an especially isolating time. CJ smiles when she talks about how… Read More
Hi! I’m Ridhi and this summer, I had the wonderful opportunity to serve as an intern for the Adult Day Health program at Full Life Care through the Teens in Public Service (TIPS) program. Even before my first day at Full Life Care this June, I found myself unsure of what exactly I’d be doing.… Read More
The willingness and compassion of the volunteer’s heart is truly amazing, it can even be life-changing for both the volunteer and the recipients of their service. When an enthusiastic volunteer teams up with another and visits a frazzled Caregiver and their loved one, there is a possibility of powerful connection. When volunteers Katie Mahaffey and… Read More
By volunteer Virginia As a volunteer at Full Life Care for over two years, I’ve seen how Full Life is committed to the spirit of community and uplifting its clients, mainly elders and people with chronic or terminal illnesses and disabilities. This year, I had the pleasure of being part of the Social Committee that… Read More
During National Volunteer Appreciation Week, April 21-27, 2024 we honor Full Life’s committed community volunteers. Staff often marvel at their dedication and we’re always curious to know what motivates them. Full Life volunteers come from all walks of life — the retiree, the college student, the midlife professional, the stay-at-home moms and dads, service veterans.… Read More
“What seems quite by chance is never by chance.” – Patricia Hanrahan The smell of freshly baked scones and brewing coffee filled the air as ElderFriends pair Patricia (Patty) Hanrahan and Caroline Horsford sat down to reflect upon their friendship in Patty’s home in West Seattle. After being matched in March of 2023, the two… Read More
In my sixties, a widow, with all my children having moved on to their own lives, I found myself working in a nursing home for the elderly. I couldn’t help but ponder the questions I had about my own reactions to those facing the end of life and the remarkable resilience of those who maintained… Read More
November is National Family Caregiver month — a time to recognize and honor unpaid family caregivers. Full Life is dedicated to the independence and well-being of older adults and adults with disabilities, including respite for caregivers. Our Care Teams program, funded by the King County Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy, is one example of… Read More
It was a clear bright July morning in the First Hill neighborhood where a modest community hub was being prepared to host a quaint weekend Garden Party. The guests — volunteers and participants in Full Life Care’s volunteer-based ElderFriends and Care Teams programs. Decorations in place, lavender centerpieces arranged, refreshment table overflowing, and soft music… Read More