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 November 2006 Back to Table of Contents Back to Archives Main Page Section: Life & Leisure Making a Difference By Nancy Jo Eckerson
“I got involved because I wanted to make a difference,” says Scott. “Mr. L., my Compeer friend, has been a great addition to my life. He can really be a riot. Sometimes he has made me laugh so hard I have almost driven off the road.” Mr L., at 16, immigrated to the US from Germany be-tween the two world wars. He soon became a skilled machinist in the auto industry, married his first wife, and for a time also worked for an architect. He claims to have worked on the former Colonial Circle mayoral mansion. But, in 1940, something went wrong. Mr. L. ended up in the Buffalo Psychiatric Center, diagnosed with schizophrenia. He was a patient there for the next 25 years. “Mr. L. has told me about those years,” says Scott. “He told me about his close relationship with the staff at the hospital and that they would often put him to work on the grounds. He says that occasionally a staff member would even take him home for a Sunday dinner.” Upon being discharged from the Psych Center, Mr. L. lived independently for another 30 years, mostly on Buffalo’s West Side, where he met Scott. “We would pass the time by going for walks along the beach, having coffee together and even shared holidays together. He just liked to talk and know someone was listening.” Sarah Stimm and Compeer made a great match with Ron Scott and Mr. L. “I have to credit Sarah and the Compeer organization. They are very careful with placements — very professional,” says Scott. Forever Young was privileged to meet Mr. L. with Scott. Mr. L. smiled and extended a welcoming hand to his friend. It was enough to persuade the hardest of hearts that this is truly very noble work. Mr. L.’s spirit came alive the minute he felt the touch of his friend on his shoulder. He became animated and talkative. What a blessing!
And how can you be a part of this noble cause? “There are no educational requirements to become a volunteer in our program,” says Sarah Stimm, Compeer’s Director of Adult Senior Services. “We look for volunteers interested in being a supportive friend and a positive role model, willing to share at least four hours a month for one year.” Anyone interested in volunteering to be a friend should contact Sarah Stimm or Carrie Ansell, at 883-3331. Next Month: Compeer Part 3. back to top back to table of contents Current Issue | About Forever Young | Where to Find | Advertise | Our Advertisers | Community Calendar | Contest | Clubs | Contact Us | Archives | Home |
