photos courtesy Faith in Action
For 25 years, Faith in Action Georgetown has been a lifeline for local seniors, offering free rides, companionship, and support that help older adults live independently.
TELL US A STORY OF impact most people haven’t heard before — ONE that captures WHAT FAITH IN ACTION really does?
One of our volunteers, Sissy, arrived at a client’s home and did not receive a response when she knocked and called. She called the police to request a well check and the police did not find anyone at home. Sissy continued to walk around outside where she shockingly found our client lying in the ditch. She had fallen and had been lying there since the night before. Fortunately, she was not injured, but freezing temperatures were forecast for that very night. The client’s daughter later told us that her mom might not be alive if Sissy hadn’t been there. That moment reflects exactly what Faith in Action Georgetown does—we provide connection, care, and sometimes life-saving support.
What’s one program or service you offer that the public often doesn’t realize exists?
Many people know about our transportation program, but not everyone realizes we also have a medical equipment closet where anyone in Georgetown can receive free medical equipment, regardless of age.
Who are some of the “unsung heroes” — volunteers, staff, or donors — who keep things running behind the scenes?
Tracy Barber, our program director oversees every program and our entire program staff. She goes above and beyond providing attentiveness and compassion no matter what. She stands in the gap and builds relationships with clients, volunteers, board members, and our team.
Tracy would never seek recognition, but her dedication to Faith in Action changes lives every day. And every volunteer who drives is an unsung hero. They give of themselves every day, expecting nothing in return.
What is a challenge you’re facing that the community might not realize?
We have more than 800 clients but only 95 volunteers who drive. Every month we receive inquiries from approximately 30 new people wanting to sign up for our services. Recruiting and training enough volunteer drivers to meet that need is a constant challenge —but every new volunteer instantly allows more seniors to stay independent and healthy.
If Georgetown doubled in size tomorrow, what would that mean for you?
It would double the number of people who need our services. Georgetown’s population already includes more than twice the state average of older adults. Combine that with rapid growth and the aging baby boomer generation, and you have a perfect storm—a growing demand for free, reliable transportation for seniors in our community. We would need to expand our volunteer base, our vehicle fleet, and our operational support to ensure no senior is left without a way to get to the doctor, the grocery store, or engage with their community.
In one sentence, what do you most want people in Georgetown to know about your nonprofit?
Faith in Action Georgetown is more than a ride; it’s a relationship! Scan the code to learn more, or visit FaithInActionGT.org.