SHEPHERD’S HERALD: Winter 2022 (Volume 8, Issue 1)

Changes to Board Membership

Each year there are changes to Board membership, usually as the result of volunteers adjusting the demands on their time from their families or other volunteer or church-related activities. This year is no exception. Michael Lerner served during the past two years as Vice Chair as well as serving double-duty in 2021 as the Acting Chair. These roles will now be filled by Tom Callanen, as Chair, and Carrie Le, as Vice Chair. Tom served for the past two years as the newsletter editor and Carrie as the Communications Committee chair, a role she will continue. Michael has agreed to remain on the Board — where he has served since 2016 in a variety of capacities — offering his experience to Tom and Carrie. He will now focus his attention on our clients, organizing the procedures for managing incoming clients as well as handling the needs of existing ones.

Other Board changes include the departure of Jan Gordon who served as the Chair of the Client Advocacy Committee – she will remain on the committee and continue as a Ride Coordinator and driver. Jan is being replaced by new Board member Carolyn Jeskey, one of our most active drivers. Another new member is Mark Turco. He will serve as Chair of the Audit Committee but will also continue as a Ride Coordinator. In addition to their Board duties almost all of the members are regular drivers for our clients, an activity they feel is essential for our community.

Helpful Resources


  • Resource Referral Program

    The Virginia Department of Social Services offers a referral program for its citizens for a very wide range of resources, including food, housing, clothing, and healthcare. Contact specialists answer calls 24/7, year round. Phone 211 or 1-800-230-6977, or you can visit their website online at www.211virginia.org/consite/index.php for a complete listing of resources. It Works!!!

  • Social Security Alert

    Scammers are pretending to be government employees. They may threaten you and may demand immediate payment to avoid arrest or other legal action. DO NOT BE FOOLED!

    If you receive a suspicious call:

    1. HANG UP!
    2. DO NOT GIVE THEM MONEY OR PERSONAL INFORMATION!
    3. REPORT THE SCAM AT OIG.SSA.GOV

  • Fall Prevention

    According to the CDC, every second of every day an older adult (age 65+) suffers a fall in the U.S.— making falls the leading cause of injury and injury death in this age group.

    Prevention tips include:

    • Review your medications with your doctor.
    • Preserve bone mass with aerobic exercise, eating healthy, and getting Vitamin D and calcium.
    • Get annual vision and hearing exams.
    • Check for tripping hazards such as throw rugs, wires or cords, poor lighting on stairs, etc.
    • Install toilet & shower grab bars.
    • Keep kitchen items used often on lower shelves.
    • Use night lights between bed and bathroom.
    • Get out of bed slowly.
    • Keep emergency numbers near each phone.
  • Senior Resource Guide

    Call 703-558-6859 for a copy of the Senior Resource Guide from Virginia Hospital Center.

In this issue: changes to the Board; featured volunteers & client; and helpful information for staying safe.