Fishing. That’s always the activity of choice when 9-year-old Tyler gets together with Bill.
Tyler’s mom – Jennifer — had been homeschooling her three kids. Their current study focused on community service. They looked through the options, and when Tyler heard that Mental Health America of Fredericksburg (MHAF) offered a Senior Visitors Program, he wanted to find out more immediately.
While it’s required to be 18 years or older to be a visitor, Jennifer found out that families could volunteer. She and Tyler took the volunteer orientation together, and were excited to be assigned a senior that needed a friend.
After being referred to the Senior Visitors Program, Bill wasn’t sure what to expect. He felt lonely, and was grateful that someone had taken notice. His grandkids lived across the country, so it was a welcome surprise when he was informed that his visiting friend would be a 9-year-old boy with a heart for service.
Once Bill was identified as a good match, Jennifer and Tyler went on their first visit to Bill’s home. A kind and caring gentleman, Jennifer had no reservations when Bill asked to take Tyler fishing on their next visit.
As fishing buddies, Tyler and Bill often spend their weekly visits on the Rappahannock River. Tyler told Jennifer that he’s lucky, because not many kids get to have an extra grandfather.
To extend your family and become a senior visitor, check out our volunteer application.
Or, read more stories about the people that have been changed through our Senior Visitors Program.
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