Who Cares? We Do!

By Deacon Ken Duncan

Central's congregation has grown, the pastoral staff has shrunk, and the number of Deacons has remained the same. Care Teams have become an important strategy to serve the needs of our congregation.

Who? A Care Team is a small group of volunteers who serve together to offer short-term practical, emotional, and prayer support to individuals or families in need.

How? The Care Team receives training and has a leader. Care Team members simply do what they can, when they can, but in an organized fashion. This may include providing transportation, chores, meals, social outings, visits, phone calls, or respite care for family caregivers.

Why does this work well? Team members 'share the care' which means that no one or two persons 'do it all.' The Care Team offers a built-in support system. It allows more time-flexibility and provides a wider variety of skills and resources.

You may not have noticed, because we keep needs confidential, but there are Care Teams at work among our congregation right now! Here's what some of them have to say:

"I was already connected to the Friend, but it has been very helpful to be part of a team. There was more to do than I could handle by myself."

"When my Friend needed help moving, my part was to pack a few boxes and to load and unload them. That was just what I was able to do and enjoyed doing. Another team member who actually enjoys cleaning (Can you believe it?) came in the next day and scrubbed her little heart out. Meals were provided by someone else. We each contributed what we could."

"What I am doing fits into the bigger picture and meets more of the Friend's needs more consistently without falling all on one person."

"Just knowing that I would not be the 'Lone Ranger' really gave me peace. I'm thankful to serve as just one of the 'Together Rangers.' "

If you would be interested in serving on a Care Team, please call one of the Deacons listed on the back page of the directory.

'Do you truly love me?' Simon Peter answered, 'Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Take care of my sheep.' -- John 21:16

See also:

• NV: Care Teams