The Shepherd's Center of Richmond Email Format
Civic and Social OrganizationsVirginia, United States2-10 Employees
The Shepherd’s Center is run almost entirely by the work of our dedicated volunteers. We currently have only four paid staff members – one full-time and three part-time – who work closely with our volunteers to provide the Center’s programs and services. Our most popular program, Open University, is a lifelong learning opportunity featuring volunteer instructors from Richmond’s university and professional communities. Eight-week sessions offer courses and lunch speakers – with subjects varying from history, arts, and languages to science and chair yoga - during the fall, winter and spring. The Center also organizes and offers Lunch & Life; a free and open-to-the-public, four-week lunch speaker series that coincides with Open University. The Shepherd’s Center of Richmond’s primary service is providing free, round-trip transportation for seniors 60 and older to medical appointments and grocery stores. The Center’s volunteer drivers use their own cars to pick clients up, drive them to their appointments, wait for them, and then return them home. This vital service is much-needed in our community. Drivers say they get a deep sense of meaning and reward from volunteering, and clients share how this transportation service greatly improves the quality of their lives. The Center also organizes and provides member events: opportunities to get together, socialize, and learn about our community by visiting local museums, restaurants, and historical sites. And last, but not least, volunteers provide leadership and serve on committees to direct and grow the Center. Volunteers are truly the heart and soul of The Shepherd’s Center – our programs and services would not exist without their selfless and considerable contributions.