DETAILED ORGANIZATIONAL FACTS

Our Mission:

Heart of the Valley, SERVICES FOR SENIORS, Inc. (HOV) is committed to supporting independent living for seniors in West Santa Clara County.

Our History:
In April 1986 Austen Warbuton suggested that the Santa Clara Methodist Retirement Foundation, Inc. serve seniors living on their own. In June 1986 an incorporating Board of Directors was selected for Heart of the Valley. Between June and December 1986 the incorporating Board clarified goals, selected a name, drafted bylaws and completed the article of incorporation. In February 1987 incorporation papers 501(c)(3) were filed. On March 30, 1987, Heart of the Valley held its first meeting, elected officers and adopted bylaws.

Our Organization:
Heart of the Valley, recruits dependable volunteers to go into senior's homes on a single and short term basis to provide them with a wide variety of in home services including escorted transportation. We act like a friendly neighbor would if they were available to help. HOV has 124 volunteers, of all ages and professions.

Our Services:
In-Home Services : House Projects, Handyman Services, Yardwork, Shopping and errand services, Paperwork and Telephoning, Respite, Visitation, Friendly Phone Calls, Advocacy and Computer Support.

Escorted Transportation: Heart of the Valley volunteers will take seniors to medical and business appointments, shopping, errands, to hospitals to visit friends and family, to social events and activities, to the cemetery to visit, and will escort seniors on outings. We are one of the few agencies offering escorted transportation in our area.

Information & Referral: Heart of the Valley links seniors to services and agencies in our community.

Staffing:
Heart of the Valley has a part-time paid Executive Director and a part-time paid Office Manager. The Council On Aging has provided a Title V employee who works 20 hours per week as clerical support for the office.

Client Population:
Each year HOV provides direct services to over 400 clients. About half of our clients are low income. Eighty-five percent of our clients are women with an average age of 83 years. We serve seniors living in West Santa Clara County. Of all the services we provide, escorted transportation is the most requested.