Last Thanksgiving, Janeen McGinley suddenly lost her mother. In the midst of her grief, she faced another difficult question: How would she make sure her 98-year-old grandmother, Gilda, had the care, connection and support she needed?

For Janeen, the answer began with family. She brought Gilda to live with her, her husband, and two children in Lewes. But with an active household and the responsibilities of caring for someone she loves, Janeen also needed a community around her. That’s when she found Village Volunteers.

It started with visits at home. A friendly face. A conversation. Someone new to look forward to seeing.

Then Gilda began getting out of the house and attending Village Volunteers activities. When she turned 99 this summer, her new Village community celebrated right along with her.

Her 14-year-old great-grandson, Jackson, noticed the difference.

Gilda seemed happier on the days Village Volunteers came to visit
or when she went to a Village event.

And for Janeen, knowing there were other people connecting with Gilda and looking out for her provided something equally important: support in caring for someone she loves.

But this family’s Village story doesn’t end with Gilda.