To benefit the missions of Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey and Friends Health Connection, our community was treated to a lively and educational evening with Alan Alda on September 12, 2017. Mr. Alda appeared at the Grunin Center to speak about his new book If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face? and his journey to discover new ways to help people communicate and relate to one another more effectively.
The evening was made possible through the generous support of Community Medical Center (CMC) and Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus (MMCSC), RWJBarnabas Health facilities who were the presenting sponsors.
Shawn Michaels from Townsquare Media Group opened the evening by welcoming the audience and speaking personally as a proud Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey Board Member. He highlighted their mission and encouraged those in attendance to volunteer to help their elderly neighbors.
Communication and empathy are key components to the mission of Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey. More than 1000 volunteers assist the homebound elderly, Veterans, caregivers and families facing the difficult journey of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. Every day, dedicated individuals volunteer their time to ease loneliness and allow those who no longer drive to access their medical care.
According to Lynette Whiteman, Executive Director of Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey “Our volunteers are helping people at a very vulnerable time in their lives. Mr. Alda’s presentation helped bring into focus the importance of slowing down, fully listening and respecting the other person’s point of view.”
Funds raised from this event will further support the important work that Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey does in Ocean and Monmouth Counties.
