Each week, individuals who are served by Typical Life Corporation pick up warm food from Meals on Wheels for delivery. They read the address on each packaged dinner, then approach a door and ring the bell. Home by home, individuals deliver meals to recipients in York and Adams counties.
It’s just one way that TLC individuals volunteer in their neighborhoods.
Such opportunities enable them to engage with their communities, learn skills, and build self-confidence, says Tiffany Bridges, TLC Planning and Coordination Assistant, who arranges many of the volunteer activities.
Diverse opportunities
TLC offers a broad range of volunteer opportunities in three mid-state counties, tailored to the interests and comfort levels of its individuals. In York County, volunteers work with Midwest Food Bank of Pennsylvania, at Wellspan Park, and at Richard Nixon Park, among other places.
At Nixon Park, a visually impaired volunteer enjoys cleaning the nature center, guided by the reflections on its glass. In a program in its first year, volunteers walk through the Wellspan Park baseball stadium after York Revolution games and other events to help collect trash. They also can attend games with donated tickets.
At Mountain Creek Campground in Adams County, individuals ride in a golf cart as they pick up trash with a grabbing tool. Besides assisting with Meals on Wheels in the county, individuals help at a local garden. They’ve also volunteered at a nursing home.
In Lancaster County, individuals visit the Lancaster Humane Society to brush, pet, and cuddle cats, a therapeutic experience for the volunteers and the animals.
“We keep individuals where they’re comfortable and it’s in their interest,” Tiffany says.
Building skills, reaching goals
Volunteering is not just about giving back to the community; it’s about personal growth and development.
“It teaches them skills. It’s molding and helping them to get ready for the real world,” Tiffany says. “A lot of them have goals to have jobs. It teaches them routine and a new skill. It teaches them how to partner in a team.”
Volunteering also instills a sense of responsibility and builds trustworthiness, Tiffany says.
Carly, a TLC individual, volunteers at a Community Aid thrift store. Her dedication and consistency have brought her closer to her goal of working there as a paid employee.
Integrating into communities
While volunteering offers numerous benefits, it also comes with challenges.
Some individuals face difficulties with reading or become nervous when speaking to people. At TLC, staff members are always available to support and advocate for volunteers. During Meals on Wheels deliveries, staffers assist with reading addresses and provide reassurance while teaching volunteers essential social skills, such as handling a situation in which they might not receive a thank-you for their efforts.
By participating in volunteer activities, TLC individuals become integrated into their communities. They form connections, contribute to local causes, and experience the joy of helping others. These activities also offer a sense of accomplishment and belonging. The individuals walk away knowing that they are valued members of society.
TLC’s monthly calendars are filled with unique volunteer opportunities and outings, so individuals always can look forward to an exciting activity. From dancing and singing to cooking and gardening, TLC continually seeks ways to engage and inspire the individuals it serves.
Fostering growth
The organization’s latest project involves building a garden, with the organization’s departments working to make it a reality. This collaborative effort will provide a space for volunteers to nurture plants and enjoy the fruits of their labor.
At Typical Life Corporation, volunteering is a cornerstone of its mission to foster personal growth and community well-being through responsible, compassionate, and innovative support rooted in integrity and collaborative partnerships. This ensures that every individual has the opportunity to live his or her best life.
Through a wide range of opportunities, TLC helps individuals develop skills, build confidence, and become part of their communities. The benefits extend beyond the individuals whom TLC serves to create a more inclusive and compassionate society.