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That is why Faith in Action, a
national network of free, interfaith, community-based services, is
sending out its very own angel to recruit volunteers in communities
across the country to help a neighbor in need.
"The holidays can be a tough time
for someone without family or friends close by," said television
angel Della Reese, national spokesperson for Faith in Action and a
singer, actress, performer, and minister -- perhaps best known for her
role as "Tess" on the hit television series, Touched by an
Angel. "Faith in Action connects volunteers to people right in
their community who need their help and friendship."
The public service announcement (PSA)
campaign featuring Reese aims to connect volunteers to those in their
communities who need help with basic daily tasks such as shopping,
cooking, and housework, or simply need someone to stop by for a friendly
visit.
According to data from the Institute
for Health Care Research and Policy at Georgetown University, more than
12 million Americans have serious long-term health conditions, which may
force them to seek assistance with everyday activities in order to
remain independent. Faith in Action addresses this need by working with
care recipients of all ages including the elderly, children with
disabilities, and those suffering from HIV/AIDS and mental illness.
"We know that these folks
desperately want to remain in their own homes and within their own
communities," said Dr. Burton Reifler, national director of Faith
in Action. "Faith in Action volunteers help their neighbors
maintain their independence and provide them with much needed
companionship."
The public service announcement
campaign will begin running in December. The television, radio, and
print PSAs star Della Reese and feature a Faith in Action volunteer and
care recipient. Reese urges potential volunteers to take the first step
and find a Faith in Action program in their community. "A
neighbor's independence depends on you," Reese intones in the PSAs.
"Just a few hours of your time
can make a world of difference," said Reese. "This holiday
season, give the gift of independence and companionship to your neighbor
in need. Volunteer with Faith in Action -- try it and find out how good
it feels."
Through the campaign, Faith in Action,
a national program of The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, aims to
increase awareness of its current programs and to increase the number of
volunteers participating across the country. The Foundation began its
interfaith caregiving initiative in 1984 by establishing 25 pilot sites
and continued in 1993 with the introduction of Faith in Action. To date,
the Foundation has committed more than $75 million to establish programs
in communities throughout the United States.
To find a Faith in Action program in
your community, call toll free at (877) 324-8411 or visit the Web site
at http://www.faithinaction.org. |
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