BECAUSE YOU CARE: JOIN OUR LIFELONG LAGUNA VOLUNTEERS

Our volunteers are trained and supervised community members who help Lifelong Laguna operate more effectively and efficiently. They are the heart of our innovative "aging-in-place" initiative that goes beyond the walls of the Susi Q to help our friends and neighbors live safely at home, in the hometown we love.

It Has Been an "Interesting" Year, So We Asked Our Volunteers and Members to Share Their Thoughts About Lifelong Laguna and The Susi Q Without Walls.

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"Skipper names John Fay, AKA Mr. First Baseman, as the most helpful, compassionate and fun leader of the Susi Q Senior Center. He always makes this "Ballplayer" feel welcome. He comes up with solutions for Skipper's problems and always gives him a hug." - Alicia

"I got involved with Lifelong Laguna to give back to our community, and what I have found is a new set of dear friends." - Tracy

"Helping seniors to continue to live safely in their homes takes a caring community, and that is why I am so proud to be part of Lifelong Laguna." - Nancy

"As a Laguna Beach resident, I am so grateful to be able to volunteer for Lifelong Laguna and the Susi Q Without Walls. Shout out to John Fay who coordinates our efforts. I have worked for a number of different volunteer organizations and I appreciate John's support, kind understanding and communication with us as volunteers & also with the Lifelong Laguna members. I have met some wonderful, lively and interesting seniors who keep me on my toes and whose sense of humor give me a good laugh too. It has been an honor and a sincere pleasure to get to know them through this outreach." - Debbie

"Your messages are always uplifting and a pleasure, thank you!" - Laura

"I miss the Susi Q so much. I was a regular in the Tuesday Film Group and took the My Estate Class three times. I had John and Martha evaluate my home for the Lifelong Laguna program. I am so thankful knowing that help is a phone call away if needed." - Lynn
 
"54 years ago we drove to Laguna to get a cup of tea. Best decision ever. We saw a house for sale, looked at it and bought it on the spot. We were told if we needed help Laguna neighbors would come through. I enjoy that Laguna love to this day." – The Flores Family

"I want to mention Leslie's Co-ed Stretch & Tone Class. Not only do the exercises stretch & tone all our muscles, it is fun. Leslie is very positive and encouraging. She talks a little about what's going on in her life and helps us stay connected. Before and after the class the members have a chance to catch up and I think that is very good for those that are shut in. I, for one, feel better after her class." - Janene

"What a blessing my companion has been this year. John you have matched us in likes, personalities and interests." - Kathy

"Lifelong Laguna has been a wonderful help during a difficult time. Not only has Kim been a careful and considerate shopper once a week, but also I've derived great comfort from knowing that this support system is there for me." - Glenna

"I wish to thank the people who came to my house to help reduce earthquake damage." - Richard

"We are so pleased to have this opportunity to express our sincere thanks for all the programs providing assistance (Meals-on-Wheels, Age-Well, Lifelong Laguna, Sally's Fund, Susi Q Zooms) and to the hundreds of volunteers (working with staff), contributing countless hours to make it happen.  An incredible place to live (especially for Seniors) during these uniquely trying times. God Bless each and everyone of you." - Mike and Ko

"We want to thank absolutely ALL of you for the many, many ways you have held our hands and kept our spirits up during this most difficult of times. Sandy never fails to bring a bit of joy and sweet laughter when she calls to make sure we’re okay. Kim generously gave her time and effort to shop for us many many times keeping us in fresh veggies. Martha Hernandez stayed right on top of our needs and is always there to help with the most unassuming and pleasant attitude. Diane and Laura Lee promoted comfortable discussions to the much needed Women’s Support Group and, obviously, we are daily grateful to John Fay for the continuing umbrella of it all." - Jim and Laura

"As a proud member of the Board of Directors, I love to brag about the fine work the staff at the Susi Q has done during these challenging months. It has been a pleasure to participate via Zoom in Wayne’s yoga class, as well as a three part writing workshop, listening to incredibly talented young musicians, viewing art through Gallery Q, learning about wine and enjoying a tasting, and knowing that the familiar and caring presence of you all has kept a very special portion of our Laguna community connected, and introduced, around the country and internationally - a whole new group of active adults to the Susi Q. We have truly become the Susi Q Without Walls and thankfully Zoom has facilitated this first step in a safe and comfortable nuance of this fine organization."
-Stephany, LBS Board Secretary/Treasurer 

"From regularly volunteering and socializing at the formerly walled Susi Q, to now isolating in my own four walls, I am so grateful to have the Susi Q in my life--the help, comfort, friendship and sustained caring are amazing.  I helped build Lifelong Laguna which has helped hundreds of seniors in Laguna Beach, and now me personally with great noise-cancelling headphones I enjoy when my neighbors regularly get too rowdy. The opportunity to teach yoga on the Zoom format through the Susi Q is another way that I have been blessed by my relationship with all the fine people at our beloved Susi Q Senior Center. Thank you." - Jheri

"I would like to thank my friend Mary Jo, who visits with me, and we talk for hours about our past and present lives...it is wonderful!!! I am grateful for Patty and Ian for sharing the life of my fish "Abel" with me and for being there for me when he died!!!! I am grateful to John for sending those GOOD friends my way!!!!!" - Denise

"What an incredible gift we in Laguna have in the Susi Q -- life enhancing and nourishing at any time, but especially sustaining during this pandemic and especially through Lifelong Laguna! I'm unable to adequately voice my appreciation in this limited space for the classes, the music, and the people who volunteer their time and talents and the means for staying connected! But I must express my deepest gratitude for amazing, kind-hearted Kim who tirelessly keeps me supplied with groceries; and for Anne who has often lent me sensitive, caring emotional support; and for John Fay for overseeing the wonderful Lifelong Laguna and for skillfully and cheerfully providing important daily news and information! Thank you!" - June

Mandatory Lifelong Laguna volunteer trainings will be held virtually via Zoom during the COVID-19 pandemic. To join our Team of Volunteers, please register here with your contact information. We look forward to 'seeing' you soon!