2008 Annual Dues
Each January, the “Friends of the Norwell Council on Aging” provide a membership application in the newsletter. We periodically get questions asking who we are, what we do and how these dues are used.
The “Friends of the Norwell Council on Aging” is a non-profit group that helps support the Council on Aging’s efforts within the community. As a non-profit group, the “Friends” have access to general funds that allow them to provide immediate financial assistance that the COA. This helps the COA Director and Outreach Coordinator to better serve residents in need. Every year, many of the 50 or more programs offered are financially underwritten by the “Friends of the COA.” Programs include those in the areas of Nutrition, Education and Leisure, and Entertainment. The “Friends” provide assistance with preparing and mailing the bi-monthly newsletter. Support is also available for those experiencing financial distress, by assisting to pay a utility bill or for a prescription. In
these difficult times when household expenses continue to escalate and many seniors struggle to afford the basic necessities of life, the COA and the programs offered at the placePlaceNameSenior PlaceTypeCenter keep these seniors connected.
The current board officers include: President, Jean Merrifield; Vice President, Irene Horte; Secretary, Dorothy Lynch; Treasurer; Ann Pierce. Some of the expenses covered by the “Friends” in 2006 included:
$2,060 - Mailing the newsletter (six mailings at $340+ each);
$400 - Postage or other mailings;
$500 - Community support services including prescriptions, food, and utilities assistance;
$1,200 - Supplies for the lunch program.
Last year, over 700 Norwell seniors participated in the programs offered at the Senior Center. Most of these programs are facilitated and staffed by volunteers. We also had 85 volunteers provide over 7,700 hours of service. The success of the Council on Aging depends on the work of these volunteers, the COA Board and staff, the “Friends of the COA” and people like you.
So how can you help? A membership form is included on the back of this newsletter. If you want to become a member, please complete the form and send it along with a check for $10 per individual or $15 couple, payable to the Friends of the Norwell Council on Aging. Donations are also gladly accepted. Membership forms and checks can be sent to Friends of the Norwell COA, P.O. Box 699, Norwell, 02061. You may also drop them off at the COA office, located at 293 Pine Street.
If you choose not to join, you are still eligible to receive any service or assistance that you need. However, your financial support will help continue the programs and services that keep our seniors healthy, active and a vital asset to our community. Thank you for your generosity.
Respectfully,
Jean Merrifield, President
FRIENDS OF THE NORWELL COA
2008 ANNUAL DUES
Name: _________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________
Phone: ______________________
____New Member ____ Renewal ____ Donation
Make checks payable to: Friends of Norwell COA
Clip and mail to: Friends of Norwell COA, P.O. Box 699, Norwell, MA. 02061
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