Paul has been surrounded by caring influences. He witnessed and supported his wife, Nancy, as she cared for her aging mother, just as he did with his sister in Michigan, who cared for his mother. Paul also saw how difficult and stressful it can be to serve as a caregiver, the toll it can take mentally and physically, including feelings of guilt and helplessness. Having spent his career selling industrial machinery, Paul developed a knack for problem-solving and connecting the people around him to available resources. Six years ago, when Nancy saw a call-out in the parish bulletin that Catholic Charities Southwestern Ohio’s Caregivers’ Assistance Network (CAN) was looking for volunteer facilitators for caregivers’ support groups, she encouraged him to apply.
Paul shared, “I care about people … We are all in this together … And getting involved is the right thing to do.” As a CAN support group facilitator, Paul gives his time to be present and provide a confidential space for caregivers to share their challenges and blessings. Their sense of solidarity is evident when the members of the group support one another by attending funerals when their fellow caregivers’ loved ones die. “It is a very touching experience to be together, praying and kneeling with one another,” at those times. According to CAN Coordinator, Angie Homoelle, “Paul appreciates the sacredness of the space they have created together and honors that.”
Paul assists his support group members to “connect the dots” and help caregivers seek solutions when they are faced with various challenges, which could be related to when the caregivers themselves need care, while balancing the care they provide for their loved one. Angie adds, “Paul is a dedicated volunteer who embodies servant leadership. He empowers the support group members to help each other and care for each other. Whenever there are challenges with the meeting time or location, he is flexible and makes sure the group has an opportunity to get together each month.”
The bond of support goes further than just the day-to-day logistics of caregiving, as many members will remain in the group after their loved one passes away and continue to support those with whom they have shared so much. This is a place where “people can laugh and cry and support one another,” Paul states.
Over 200 caregivers receive support monthly in groups like Paul’s in 18 locations, like churches and senior centers, across Southwestern Ohio.
CAN partners with community partners to offer Creative Connections, an art and movement program for people living with dementia. Powerful Tools for Caregivers help caregivers cope with stress and care for their own wellness. Senior and Caregiver Support Services is just one department among many at Catholic Charities that actively support and uplift people of all ages to manage life’s challenging circumstances and honors the experiences of older adults, their families and those who sacrifice to care for their loved ones.
As we approach the end of 2023, and the holiday season of giving, we are highlighting stories of Catholic Charities’ programs that serve young children, families, and older adults in our Winter Appeal. We hope these stories inspire you to generously share your gifts, as Paul has shared his for many years. Your financial support ensures that Catholic Charities and Su Casa are able to provide best-in-class outreach services to people of all ages in their time of need. Donate today!