VOLUNTEER
One of the most precious and valuable gifts we can give is time. The COA has volunteer opportunities to suit most needs and time constraints whether they be once a year or once a day! No matter what your interests, location, or availability, come talk to us… we know that YOU can make all the difference!
Browse the current volunteer needs below. Then click on the button below to download an application that you can fill out and email to COA’s Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@coasjc.orgor 904-209-3686. Or you may print it and either fax to 904-209-3654 or come by COA’s headquarters at 180 Marine Street, St. Augustine. Existing volunteers may now also download their time log below to fill out and email it to volunteer@coasjc.org.
CURRENT VOLUNTEER NEEDS
You can make a difference! Volunteers just like you share kindness and touch lives here at COA. Here are our current volunteer needs:
Sign Language Interpreter – We are looking for a Volunteer to help our Deaf Participants at the River House and also occasionally at the Coastal Community Center. Help is needed mostly in the mornings but could be afternoons as well. We believe that 2 – 3 times per month for 1-2 hours. If you have the time, you can put your very special skills to work and help others.
Ramp Building Crew – We are looking for Volunteers to help with building wheelchair ramps this Fall and Winter. If you have carpentry experience or would like to assist in this worthwhile endeavor you are encouraged to contact COA to find our more.
Ponte Vedra – Has an opportunity for an individual to lead a Chair Exercise Class on Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 – 10:00. If you have some experience with Chair Exercise or Senior Exercise programs, we could use your help. “Giving Back” feels good!
Ponte Vedra Memory Center – Is looking for an IMEP Sub Volunteer on Mondays from 9:00 – 12:30 and a permanent volunteer on Thursdays from 10:30 – 12:30. This individual will help to serve snacks and/pick-up lunches at Vicars Landing and help with clean up. Please consider helping with this wonderful program designed for those experiencing early memory loss.
This is your opportunity to help fill your empty hours and help others at the same time.
For more information or to schedule your interview, please contact COA’s Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@coasjc.org or 904-209-3686.
Click the link above to download a new volunteer packet. For more information and/or to schedule your interview, please contact COA’s Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@coasjc.org or 904-209-3686.
Sign Up for Don’s Friends’ Endless Summer 10K & 5K Beach Run/Walk!
Sign up while there are still openings for Don’s Friends 2024 “Endless Summer 10K & 5K Beach Run/Walk” to be held on November 23, 2024 in beautiful Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine! See the above graphic for details on this popular event and visit www.donsfriend.com to register today! VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! For volunteer info, please contact Maureen Long at friendsofanastasia@yahoo.com. Lastly, you don’t have to run to purchase the Best T-Shirt in Running HISTORY! See attached for info and visit www.donsfriend.com. Please support our friends, Don’s Friends!
The Don Ausman Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created 15 years ago in memory of Don Ausman, a Michigan State University student who passed away tragically at the age of 22 during his senior year. His parents, Renee and Jim, started the foundation to honor Don and continue his spirit of service in the world. During Don’s time at MSU, he had been a participant in the alternative spring break program, traveling to Mexico and Africa during his breaks to work on projects to help the local communities there. His plans after graduation had also involved helping others. After graduation, Don had planned to teach English in Japan for three years, and then return to Africa to serve in the Peace Corps.
In addition to being the organizers of the Don’s Friends’ Endless Summer 10K & 5K Beach Run/Walk, the Don Ausman Foundation supports the Alternative Spring Break for college students with the motto “Having Fun…Helping Others!” For many years, students who have elected to participate in the program have volunteered during their spring breaks for Council on Aging in St. Augustine. The students have contributed in many capacities, including volunteering at our senior centers and building accessibility ramps for seniors in St. Johns County.
“Don had such a will to be of service, and such a spirit of adventure,” his mom Renee shared. “We started Don’s Friend’s to keep that spirit alive in the world and to support other students who share his desire to make a difference.”
Volunteer Spotlight!
Collin Mc Cahill- COA Kitchen
COA has a community partnership with St. Augustine High School to facilitate students (including Collin) learning on-the-job life skills through the “Life Work Program.” Through this program, Collin began volunteering at COA in the kitchen in September 2015. Collin enjoyed it so much, he continues to volunteer here.
What did you do before you come to COA? I was born in Maryland and moved to St. Augustine in 2004. I graduated St. Augustine High School in 2014 and went on to the “Life Work Program.” It is a collaboration between St. Augustine High School and First Coast Technical College, where I majored in Culinary Arts. I also volunteered at Flagler Hospital to gain additional experience in the kitchen.
Do you have any special achievements and interests? I earned my “Safe Food Handlers Certificate.” My volunteer experience at COA and work in the “Life Work Program” helped me secure a job at Ruby Tuesdays where I have proudly worked for over one year. I love to work at Ruby Tuesdays Restaurant. I also enjoy riding my bicycle and video gaming in my spare time
Parting words? On some of my days off, I come back to COA to volunteer in the kitchen where I feel like I am part of the COA family kitchen crew.
If you are interested in a fantastic and meaningful volunteer experience, contact our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@coasjc.org or 904-209-3686.
Volunteer Spotlight!
Ted Hotchkiss Ponte Vedra “The Players” kitchen prepares, serves, and cleans up after breakfast and lunch.
How long and why have you volunteered at COA? I started volunteering in July 2015, twice a week. I always had a special relationship with my grandparents on both sides of my family, so I wanted to do something to help seniors enjoy their lives.
What did you do before COA? I was born in Galveston, TX. I am a graduate of Texas A & M University and moved to Jacksonville in 1989 for work. I am a retired Business Development Manager for a large construction company.
What do you like to do outside of COA? I love to saltwater fish, golf and snow ski. My wife and I love to travel; we especially love to go on cruises!
Parting words? Volunteering at COA is perfect for me. 95% of the reason I love to volunteer at The Players is because I feel appreciated and needed. I have a special relationship with the other volunteers and COA staff which will continue for the rest of my life.
If you are interested in a fantastic and meaningful volunteer experience, contact our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@coasjc.org or 904-209-3686.
Volunteer Spotlight!
Mercedes Vidal- Coastal Community Center, Development, Administration, Events, Sunshine Center, Spanish Teacher
For how long and why do you volunteer at COA?
I have volunteered for two years now! I love people and love to help others. At COA I meet lots of different people, many who need a little help. I work in several different departments and help in a variety of ways which keeps me learning new things. I love COA because here we have fun and we understand that it is never too late to learn. We have fun while we learn!
What did you do before you came to COA?
I was born in El Salvador and came to the U.S. in 1966. I have lived in CA, NY, NJ, KS, and now FL. I worked for Texas Instruments as a Quality Control Inspector then as a Human Resources Assistant and finally a Certified Trainer.
What do you like to do outside of COA?
I love to sew, read history, self-help, and spiritual books, and listen to soft music. I have one son and one daughter and five grandsons and one granddaughter. I just adore my grandchildren!
Volunteer Spotlight!
We so appreciate our COA volunteers!
Name: Amber Leffingwell
Integrative Memory Enhancement Program (IMEP) at Anastasia Baptist Church
How long and why have you volunteered at COA?
I started volunteering in the summer of 2015. I knew how much COA does for the elderly and our community and I wanted to give back.
What brought you to St Augustine?
I love the people here- the sense of community is wonderful! I worked in accounting near Philadelphia, PA until 1995. Then, I vacationed to St Augustine and fell in love!
What do you like to do outside of COA? I enjoy the beach, caring for my plants, and my pet parakeets, Scooby and Cricket. I adore my birds so much I handmake their toys!
What is IMEP to you?
I enjoy IMEP so much that I volunteer extra days, as needed. We interact like a big family. The music we do makes it nice to talk about memories when we grew up. Laughter is a big part of it. IMEP is such a positive thing- and we learn something new every time we come. The environment is peaceful and safe. It impresses me that even transportation can be provided!
Name: Patrick Fagan Integrative Memory
Enhancement Program at Anastasia Baptist Church & Meals on Wheels
How long and why have you volunteered at COA?
I have been a volunteer for 5 years. COA had a diverse set of needs that I felt like they could use me.
What did you do before you became a volunteer?
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. I worked as an accountant for numerous companies. I moved to St Augustine in 2006 and found a job with Orion Energy- it was the best job I ever had!
What do you enjoy doing, besides volunteering?
I love to travel! I just returned from a river cruise on the Danube River, which included side trips to: Iceland, Barcelona, Hungary, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, and Copenhagen. I enjoy building chalupas (little boats) and sailing around St. Augustine with the Maritime Heritage Foundation.
What is IMEP to you?
It is an extremely worthwhile program. I get as much out of it as the clients. IMEP includes not only memory classes, but exercise, socialization, and a helpful community. There is a great bunch of volunteers now who are ideally suited for IMEP. It is a privilege to work with Bruce (Bruno)!
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT-Tom Kelly
Tom Kelly volunteers with the COA Care Connection doing minor home repairs & admin/computer data entry.
How long and why have you volunteered with the COA? I volunteered since 2013. I chose the COA because I have experience with handicap access compliance and thought I could assist with COA goals and objectives. It is so important for seniors to have a great quality of life by remaining independent for as long as possible.
What kind of experience have you had? I was in the building materials industry for over 30 years. My career was in contract negotiations, labor relations, and human resources. Also, I had the responsibility of implementing human relations and computer programs across the U.S., Canada, and Ireland. I am very familiar with computer programs, as well as minor home repairs and tools needed to get specific jobs done.
What do you do at the COA? I help Michael Large, Care Connection Coordinator, with client data base computer process and programs, so he has time to meet the ever-growing number of requests for services. I love working with Michael and the other COA volunteers!
What are your interests outside of the COA? I love to get together with my family. I am so thankful that most of them live near me in St. Johns County! I have a wonderful wife, two beautiful daughters, one awesome stepson and three sweet grandchildren. I also enjoy bicycling at least 10 miles per day, reading mystery novels, and garage sales.
Parting words? If you are 60 or older and need minor home repair or other assistance, give Care Connection’s Michael Large a call at 904-209-3648. We would love to help however we can!
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT ARCHIVES
KATHY GRIGGS Mobile Manicurist at THE PLAYERS Community Senior Center
When and why did you begin volunteering here? I began volunteering in 2015, so about two years ago. I enjoy lifting other’s spirits, especially seniors. I feel like I give more than a manicure or a pedicure, I give a friendly, interactive experience that makes their day better, even if just a little bit.
How did you learn to do manicures and pedicures? I went to school for radiology, nursing, and cosmetology. Then, I combined my training and experience to obtain a Master Pedicurist Certification. This helps me care for chronic feet problems, which, unfortunately, is common in seniors.
What are your interests outside of COA? I provide manicures to men and women in Palm Coast to Jacksonville. Outside of work and the COA, I enjoy my family; I have two boys and two girls. Three of my four kids still live here in Florida! The other lives in California. I am a “people person.” I love meeting new people and making friends. That is why I love the COA. I get to meet so many new, wonderful people!
What was your most memorable experience? Once, I gave a manicure to a 103-year-old woman. She thanked me with her smile- it was so bright it lit up the room! I will never forget her, she reminds me why I do what I do.
Any advice? I know there are a lot of gardeners here in St. Augustine, so here is one for you: Scrape your nails over Ivory soap before gardening; soap under your nails helps remove soil quickly and easily.
Marcia Rector
COA Development – Administrative Assistant Volunteer
You have been volunteering at COA since 2005. Tell us why you began volunteering here: I felt the need to do something meaningful after my husband died
Have you always lived in St Augustine? No, I was born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in Providence, RI. We moved to NE Florida from RI in 1973 for my husband’s work. Over the past 45 years, I have seen the Shores neighborhood grow from small to HUGE! I began working with Kay Green at COA. When Becky Yanni began, we began using a new software program called Donor Snap, which I loved – absolutely loved it!
What are your interests outside of COA? Spending time with my family- I have 2 sons and 1 stepson, 3 (blood) grandkids and 1 adopted grandchild, 5 great grandchildren. My husband and I were a demonstration couple for square and round dancing, that was so much fun! I love to crochet and embroider and do lots of fiction reading. For at least 10 years, I’ve been secretary to the Board of Directors for Temple Bet Yam, which means “Temple by the Sea.” I had two beloved cats named Tabitha and Samantha both of which lived to be over 20 old.
What was your most memorable experience? COA gave me a purpose in life – to be able to help people who needed it more than I do. I made so many friends here at COA.
Parting words? I have enjoyed every minute of volunteering at COA. It is a VERY special place and I will miss everyone very much.
Meet Joyce Vikes, volunteer at River House (Line Dance instructor and Administrative Assistant) and Coastal Community Center (Advisory Board President and Event Coordinator)
Joyce began volunteering with COA in 2009. When we asked her why, Joyce said “COA selected me!” She was teaching line dancing at River House when someone gave her name to COA staff. She began by holding night classes in the exercise room.
Joyce is originally from Quarryville, PA where she worked as credit manager for both Spiegel and Sears in addition to helping on the family dairy farm. Joyce and her husband raised four children (2 girls, 2 boys) and in 1972 they relocated to St. Johns County for work. Today, Joyce has 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
This year Joyce established the “Sunshine Fund Dinner and Dance.” The idea came to her while serving as treasurer of the Coastal Community Center Advisory Board. The Sunshine Fund supports programs at COA senior centers. According to Sue Richerson, Senior Centers
Program Manager, “Joyce totally took the reins and coordinated the whole event. Fun was had by all and it was a huge success.
Hopefully, the Sunshine Dinner and Dance will become an annual fund raising event.” Joyce thoroughly enjoys line dancing and watching her students progress. They call their troupe “St.
Augustine Line Dancers.” The music is selected by mutual collaboration. Some music is found on YouTube or Radio 99.9. The group loves performing at local events, nursing homes, and senior centers.
Meet Bill and Grace Bothe who have been volunteering with Meals on Wheels for 16 years!
The COA was highly recommended by their Coquina Crossing neighbors.
Background: Grace worked for oil companies in both Miami and St. Augustine in marketing and bookkeeping. Bill retired from a career in finance and bank management. Grace was born in Leon, Nicaragua and moved to the U.S. in 1959. Bill grew up in Harrisburg, PA. They have two sons and four grandchildren all living in the Atlanta metro area.
Special Interests: When Bill first retired, he mentored at-risk students in the Take Stock in Children program at Otis Mason Elementary and St. Augustine and Pedro Menendez High Schools. Grace loves to read especially biographies and religious books. Bill has always been athletic, playing basketball, baseball and tennis. Both are members of the St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Elkton.
Don Ausman
Say Hello to Jennifer Fender
Jennifer Fender has been volunteering with the COA Memory Enhancement Program at Fruit Cove Baptist Church
for almost 1 year now.
After a 23-year career as a Computer Aided Drafter (CAD) in Transportation Engineering, Jennifer was afforded the opportunity to take early retirement. Before long, she could feel her sharpness slipping away – the result of too much time spent on the sofa watching television!
When Jennifer began driving her friends’ mother to and from Memory Enhancement Classes, she decided that, instead of driving back and forth, it would be easier to just stay and volunteer! And that’s when Jennifer rediscovered the love of learning she thought she had lost! She explains: “We draw, sing, dance, tell stories and use words and numbers creatively during these classes. I finally got to use all those lost gifts and help someone else at the same time. I feel the members and teachers are my friends and I look forward to our meetings: Seniors tell the best stories and have so much to share. The truth is that I benefit from these classes! I only hope that I am a comfort and encouragement to others and that I can continue to serve.”
Thanks, Jennifer, for all you do for all of us!