Lou: I Can Do That!

After decades of working for NATO in Luxembourg, Lou returned home and needed to build a new life for himself. Rejecting a quiet retirement, he found purpose by volunteering with local organizations. Lou now volunteers with CC@H, assisting his neighbors with a wide variety of tasks.

Some requests are physically demanding, like moving heavy boxes or furniture. Others involve using ladders for things like changing light bulbs, which can be too risky for some members. He's even up for taking out the trash.

One of his trash runs led to a beautiful friendship. For two years, he took a couple's trash bins and recycling to the curb each week. During quick chats, he and the husband bonded over their shared interest in geology. When the wife passed away, Lou was invited to her memorial reception, a testament to how a small act of service can lead to a lasting connection.

Lou finds volunteering with CC@H incredibly fulfilling. "It is a good feeling," he says. "It touches you."

Cory, Liz, and Clare: Friendships Deepened

The neighborhoods of Chevy Chase bring people together in unique ways. Cory, Liz, and Clare all live on the same street and knew each other before they started volunteering at CC@H. Through volunteering with us, their connection runs even deeper.

Cory was the first to start volunteering. She encouraged her friends to join. "I told them how much I liked it, and they both said, 'Great!' " she laughs. Liz, her next-door neighbor, signed up next. When Clare retired, she was happy to jump in too.

All three appreciate the flexibility CC@H offers, allowing them to volunteer on their own schedules. "You don’t have to commit to a specific ongoing day," Cory explains.

Beyond convenience, the real reward is the connection. Liz and Clare agree that a favorite aspect of their volunteer work is getting to know their neighbors. "The conversations with members ... they’re always pleasant and express so much gratitude," Clare says.

Their commitment extends to supporting each other, too. When Cory had to travel unexpectedly due to a family emergency, she called on Liz to cover a member’s appointment. This act of neighborly assistance highlights the supportive community that CC@H creates. We’re a network of neighbors, helping each other along the way.