FAQ’s
Who is Interfaith Caregivers of Ozaukee County?
We are a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide voluntary supportive services to senior citizens and those with disabilities . Our goal is to help our clients maintain an independent lifestyle.
How long has Interfaith been in existence?
Interfaith began in Ozaukee County in 1993. The Interfaith movement was started in the late 1980s by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, created from a well-researched, proven methodology. Hundreds of Interfaith organizations were established across the country. Since our inception, Interfaith Caregiver volunteers have provided free services to those in need within the Ozaukee community.
How is Interfaith supported financially?
Interfaith receives financial support through congregations, community organizations, service groups, businesses and community members, as well as grants through local, state and federal sources. These supporters regard Interfaith as a trusted and reliable resource in the community. We have a communications strategy in place to continually inform and engage these resources and seek continuous partnerships for volunteer recruitment and other support.
Who does Interfaith serve?
We serve seniors living in Ozaukee County. We help regardless of race, religious belief, sexual orientation, gender identity or economic status. Those in need do not have to be a member of a congregation to receive service.
What services does Interfaith provide?
Interfaith volunteers provide clients with transportation to medical/therapy/dental appointments, to the food pantry and grocery store, to the pharmacy, and other essential errands. Our volunteers visit clients, make reassurance phone calls, help with paperwork and bills, and provide non-medical respite care. Volunteers also assist with special projects that help to alleviate our clients’ social isolation, education initiatives that help the community understand issues impacting seniors, and assist in the Ozaukee h.e.l.p Corner, a health equipment lending program providing wheelchairs, walkers and canes free of charge.
Are there any volunteer requirements?
All that’s required is a genuine concern to help others. We thoroughly screen our volunteers and ask that new volunteers attend a training/orientation session.
If I decide to volunteer, how often must I be available?
We are very flexible—our volunteers help when THEY are available. Volunteers choose whether they prefer to assist clients on a regular basis or just help on an as-needed basis.
How far in advance are volunteers notified of a need?
We ask our clients to give us a minimum of 3 business days notice for in county requests and 7 business days notice for out of county and wheelchair van requests. Clients can notify us of upcoming appointments even if they are weeks or months away. We will put them in our transportation system, which allows our volunteers access to a calendar of client requests. Volunteers can then sign up for the client requests that work best for their schedule.
Do Interfaith volunteers provide transportation services outside the county?
Yes, we often get requests from clients for a ride to doctor’s offices or clinics in Milwaukee and Washington Counties. Volunteers can choose where they want to drive. Some prefer to drive only in their community or within Ozaukee County. Many others are comfortable providing rides to Milwaukee and neighboring counties.