The Heart of Our Community: Volunteers Making a Difference Every Day
- stbarnabasseniorse
- Apr 20
- 2 min read
At St. Barnabas Senior Services, volunteers are more than helping hands, they are the heart of our community. Their time, compassion, and dedication allow us to support older adults
across Los Angeles in meaningful, lasting ways.
One of those volunteers is Mr. Kim, who has been serving since 2006. What began as helping individuals navigate immigration and citizenship processes has grown into something deeper. Today, he supports Korean-speaking older adults by providing interpretation, guiding them through services, and offering something just as important; connection, understanding, and care.
When language becomes a barrier, Mr. Kim becomes a bridge. Whether assisting alongside social workers or simply listening, his presence brings comfort and clarity.
For Mr. Kim, volunteering is rooted in a lifelong belief in giving back. He sees his knowledge and experience as something to share. As he puts it:
“Seeing others succeed brings me joy, that’s what makes life meaningful.”
That spirit of service is felt by everyone he helps.
And he’s not alone.
Throughout the year, volunteers show up in powerful ways, especially during moments like our annual Thanksgiving celebration. Dozens come together to prepare and distribute meals, ensuring older adults feel cared for and connected during the holiday season.
Others make an impact every day. Tech volunteers help older adults use iPads, access telehealth, and stay safe online, opening doors to independence and connection. General volunteers create welcoming spaces at our centers, while others support care management and meal programs, ensuring essential services reach those who need them most.
And sometimes, volunteers bring something even more to our centers.
Derryck and Victor lead exercise and dance classes filled with music, movement, and laughter. Their sessions go beyond physical activity, they build confidence, connection, and something our participants look forward to every week.
Together, our volunteers do more than support programs, they bring our mission to life.
But this work doesn’t happen alone.
To continue reaching more older adults, we rely on the support of donors and sponsors who believe in building stronger, healthier communities. Your investment helps expand
these programs, sustain essential services,
and ensure no-one is left behind.
If you’re looking to make an impact, there are two powerful ways to get involved:
Become a volunteer and directly support older adults in your community
Donate or sponsor to help us grow and sustain these life-changing programs
Every hour, every dollar, and every partnership makes a difference.
👉 Sign up to volunteer or support our work today.
Because when we come together, we don’t just provide services, we build a community
where every older adult can live and age
with dignity.
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