A Little Help in Park Hill
By Nora Neureiter
A Little Help is an innovative and stable nonprofit that is launching its grassroots model in Park Hill. A Little Help began in 2005 when a group of retirees in the Washington Park neighborhood recognized the desire of many seniors to stay in their own homes and contribute to their respective communities.
Many seniors want to age in place and often just need a little help to do so. The organizers’ mission was to strengthen their neighborhood, focusing on volunteer services to help seniors thrive in their homes and communities.
A Little Help is unique in offering Denver communities biannual Service Saturday’s. In the spring and fall, volunteers assist seniors with household “to do” lists of indoor and outdoor jobs. Projects include raking, cleaning light fixtures, washing windows, and moving boxes out for donation pickup. Additionally, members of the organization can request services such as pulling weeds, getting rides to the grocery store or doctor’s offices, or changing a burnt-out light bulb. Services are provided by a volunteer neighbor from the community.
Dr. Paul Ramsey, executive director of A Little Help, speaks passionately about his desire to build stronger relationships between neighbors by bringing together folks of all ages. “We strive to cultivate a sense of altruism and compassion for people of different generations,” Ramsey said. “By working side by side and sharing a meal with people who are seemingly different than us, we can’t help but discover qualities and interests which unite and bring us closer together.”
For example, the program Brownies with Brownies gives elders a chance to share their time, stories, and wisdom with a local Brownie troop. Through A Little Help’s Teen Team, high school students are paired with older adults and can assist with technology or help around the house. Monthly dinners attract neighbors of all ages to share a common table. Book Clubs and a lecture series offer older persons opportunities for intellectual and community engagement. And, a vetted list of service providers offers safe and convenient referrals for A Little Help members.
A Little Help is a bridge connecting neighbors who can lend a hand and want to be of service. Satisfying and meaningful connections are built while strengthening the neighborhood. A Little Help in Park Hill offers the prospect of remaining safe, connected and supported while aging in our community.
AARP and Blue Zones research have both produced strong evidence that people who have close relationships with their neighbors and communities live longer, especially when rediscovering purpose in their lives as they age.
A Little Help in Park Hill is hosting A Little Wine informational gathering on Wednesday, Jan. 15th at 6 p.m. at the home of Trish Leary on Grape Street. This is a great chance for those who are interested to come together and learn more about what we can all do to help our elders thrive in Park Hill. Check out the website at alittlehelp.org, or call the office at (720) 242-9032 to RSVP for the event, or for more information about the organization.