The Human Development Commission is looking to expand community outreach for the new season while advocating for the current program line-up.
One of the new things HDC plans to roll out this year is a lineup of community educational events to support the elderly, those in need of medical care, and caregivers.
“Right now, what we are planning is a community education event,” said Kimberly Reinero, HDC’s outreach/caregiver advocate. “We go to the library to talk about our services, and we hand out merchandise (handouts) to customers in the car about the different services we offer.”
The first event scheduled is called “Managing Heart Disease with Older Loved Ones” on April 25 from 10-11:30 am. There will be a presentation followed by a free blood pressure check by a licensed practicing nurse. General public can participate for free.
The HDC already has a second community education event planned for June 7th at the Senior Seminar, which is free for all ages 60 and older. Both events will be held at the Evangelical Life He Assembly of the Church of God in Badax.
In addition to these events, Reynero hopes to attract more volunteers to the HDC to help with things like delivering meals to homes and helping with transportation. These services rely heavily on volunteers to help older people who cannot afford to see a doctor or who cannot afford to buy groceries live in their own homes.
HDC also offers support groups for caregivers who are having trouble caring for someone. HDCs can offer group sessions or schedule one-on-one support for those struggling to cope with a situation.
“We’re very rural, so it’s beneficial to have help, whether it’s for home cooking or transportation to and from the hospital,” Reinero said. , if they don’t know about these services, they won’t go looking for them. There are also referrals we can do for you.”
The program runs a variety of programs throughout the year and is always looking for volunteers. To get involved, find the Human Development Commission online at hdc-caro.org, call 989-269-9502, or visit the Bad Ax office at 856 North Van Dyke Road. It also has offices in Lapeer, Sanilac, and Tuscola counties.
