Never Alone Ministry to the Elderly (NAME)

Never Alone: Ministry to the Elderly

Our mission is to bring Christ’s love into the world by serving the elderly and dying, particularly the lonely. We bring them the light of Christ by engaging in outreach activities and glorifying God in all we do.

During the pandemic, we have shifted our focus from in person companionship in order to ensure the safety and health of the elderly. Our volunteer opportunities down below highlight alternative outreach activities that students can be involved in remotely and at a safe social distance while still demonstrating to the elderly love and care.

Get in Touch

Volunteer Opportunities

• Caring Cards: We provide loving, handwritten cards to Elderly residents
• Calling Party: We call an elderly one-two times a week to check in on them and engage in good conversation
• Sunday Night Dinner: We feed St. Tom’s families and students with a special home cooked meal, fostering community and fellowship
• Prayer Warriors: We pray for a specific elderly and create a spiritual bouquet for them

History of our Group

The Never Alone Ministry to the Elderly was started at the suggestion of Lora Beard, a student at Purdue University who worked with the elderly before coming to Purdue and wanted a way to continue working with them while she was away from home. She approached Fr. Joseph Minuth, OP who made Lora’s dream a reality in 2012. Students and Parishioners were recruited to work with Serenity Hospice and the number of volunteers has continued to grow.

Because not everyone is comfortable with working with the dying, the Ministry expanded its outreach in 2014 to visitation at the Indiana Veterans’ Home and University Place. Those who want to visit and interact with residents arrange a time and day they will volunteer to spend time with them.

As other needs began to become known, a music ministry, Movement D, was added for those who have a talent for playing a musical instrument, singing or dancing or who love storytelling.

A one hour training and orientation is offered by arrangement with Julie Haskell. After identifying the ministry choice and placement facility, the volunteer coordinators are given the name and contact information for the volunteer. A TB test and background check will then be arranged before assignment with a resident.

Please consider bringing your love and talents to the lonely, alone and unwanted people in our community who will reward you with their love and appreciation for your generosity and kindness to them. After a few visits you will realize how lucky and how blessed you are to be a part of this ministry.