Living through 2021 was a lot like riding a roller coaster. The rush to get the Covid-19 vaccine in the winter paved the way for in-person gatherings - without masks! - in the spring and summer. But new variants, a push for boosters, and the question to mask or not to mask took us through a series of ups and downs throughout the year.
Through all of the uncertainty of the 2021, our Village community remained resilient and maintained our commitment to support one another. Here are some highlights from 2021:
- Caring Support – Our volunteers provided over 6,000 hours of direct services - delivering meals to members who were home for the holidays, providing rides to critical medical appointments and social visits, and keeping members connected through regular phone calls and visits.
- Equitable Access - NNV eliminated membership fees for lower-income seniors, providing over $15,400 in membership subsidies to address significant unmet needs among older adults in our community. Now 4 in 10 of our Full Members are enjoying the benefits of membership regardless of their ability to pay.
- A Trusted Resource - Our Village has become a trusted resource for timely information on Covid-19 and helped hundreds of older adults access the vaccine as soon as it became available. Our new website includes up-to-date information on a variety of topics important to our community, as well as archived information so you never miss a thing!
- Bridging the Technology Gap - NNV took multiple approaches to bridge the generational technology gap and help keep members and the broader community connected. Our Village partnered with the DC Public Library to offer an online Tech Training, included a Tech Corner in our newsletter and website, and coordinated volunteers to help dozens of members solve their technology questions.
- Community Connections - We opened many of our virtual events to the broader community, providing the opportunity for over 700 people to learn about the Village and engage with the community. We welcomed 50 new members, and began making important strides to develop relationships with the local business community.
The spirit of generosity is the heart of Northwest Neighbors Village. Thank you for the many ways you have contributed to our community of caring support.
Wishing you a Happy and Healthy New Year!