Neighbors helping neighbors.

Since 1986, that's been the motto Diakon Volunteer Home Care has adhered to, and with a great degree of success.Lois Sterling, program manager for DVHC, recently informed members of the Palmerton Area Chamber of Commerce of the types of services the Lutheran family and community ministry provides.Sterling said the organization is an interfaith outreach ministry whereby volunteers serve elderly neighbors of all faiths with non-medical needs on a short-term/intermittent basis in the greater Carbon County area."Our target population is 60-and-over," Sterling said. "That's been the age group that's called upon us the most."All services are provided free of charge, and are designed to assist seniors who strive to maintain independence at home, said Sterling. Last year, she said DVHC served 286 clients."We're not an everyday type support," she said. "If somebody needs more help, we work with other agencies."Sterling said older adults tend to prefer in-home care rather than to have to be uprooted."In-home care services is the way people are going today," she said. "They're looking to maintain their independence at home and age in place."Sterling said she's "amazed at how often our clients are in tears because they have no idea where to turn and are very grateful.""I like to create relationships and partnerships with churches, community groups," she said. "We can recruit volunteers from services, and branch out to civic organizations to let people know this is what we have in their community, and this will be your blanket of support."Sterling said DVHC can help with companionship through visitors or telephone calls; grocery shopping; meal preparation in homes; household, outdoor and seasonal chores along with minor repairs; and transportation to medical appointments.Anyone over the age of 18 can volunteer, said Sterling, who added the greatest challenge currently is the need for volunteers to assist with transportation and grocery shopping."Our volunteers, they're wonderful folks," said Sterling, adding that new volunteers are welcome. "If they can help one time a month, that's perfectly fine."Sterling said the group relies on the generosity of monetary donations from partners in communities and individuals, along with the subsidy from its parent organization, which enables it to maintain no charge for its services.Peter Kern, chamber president, noted that the organization is a member of Carbon County Partners for Progress."The services you provide are very important for seniors and their families," Kern said. "You're doing fine work."For more information, visit

www.Diakon.org/VHC