"Just One Call" Volunteer Services to launch, September 1, 2010
As of September 1, 2010, a volunteer program to provide services such as transportation for shopping or doctor appointments, meal delivery during periods of illness, light yard cleaning, basic computer trouble shooting and much more will be in place. Planning for details of “Just One Call” and building a database of volunteers will start July 1, 2010.  Independent contractor, Delbert Seitz, will develop, operate and coordinate this program. Del will be modestly compensated for his work.

The availability of this program takes Downtowners a giant step toward realizing their general goal of providing support for retirement in downtown Lancaster. This program will be sustainable with income from yearly dues and year end contributions and will not be dependent upon grant money which is becoming more and more difficult to obtain.

Background
Lancaster Downtowners incorporated,  formed a board of directors and developed a relationship with Lancaster Alliance as fiscal sponsor in 2007. Since that time, the board and various committees have continued to work toward providing members with:

• Home management services —replacing a ceiling fixture, providing transportation for shopping and doctor visits, snow shoveling and light housekeeping
• Social interaction and life skills—visits to the infirm or isolated, potluck home get togethers, how-to workshops on retirement issues, workshops on computer and internet skills
• Advocacy and program networking—referrals to plumbers, electricians, carpenters; partnerships with health and educational institutions; group discounts with commercial establishments, and promoting law/rule changes that would benefit members
• Special interest circles—groups to promote creative housing opportunities such as loft condominiums in a former warehouse, a downtown co-housing model or a more intensive set of relationships in an intentional community