United Way of Johnson County Volunteer Guide 2011 - Shelter House

give. advocate. volunteerFour OaksGoodwill of the heartlandA Special FriendGoodwill of the Heartland is proud that Eliana Enhances Elders’ LivesAsk petite Eliana Friedman of Iowa City why she volunteers at Oaknoll RetirementResidence in Iowa City, and she will smile broadly, giggle and avoid giving a detailed answer.When pressed to share, Eliana explains her involvement makes her feel good.No portrayal of Four Oaks’ Iowa City campus would be complete without recognition of long-timefriend and supporter, Janice Baumback.Not only does Janice’s history with the organization go back nearly 30 years, her special contributionwas giving Four Oaks its name. Prior to that time, the organization, which was founded in 1973, wasknown as Boys’ Acres.As a social worker in the child psychiatry department at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics,Janice used the agency to place children. Ten years ago, a former college professor, Wayne Johnson,asked her to serve on the Community Board.“He didn’t know I had named the organization,” Janice exclaimed.Another contribution Janice has made to Four Oaks is the popular Book & Bake Sale, created tenyears ago by the Presbyterian Women of First Presbyterian Church. As Janice explained, “it is such arewarding project for everyone involved. We involve the children in moving the books and enjoy theinteraction with them.”She has volunteered at Oaknoll since 2006, beginning in high school. After graduation,Elaina continued to volunteer at Oaknoll because she enjoyed the tasks and the residentswho call Oaknoll home.Volunteering at Oaknoll has helped Eliana develop into the caring young woman she istoday. Oaknoll residents have become dear friends, and she celebrates with them duringthe seasons and at special events such as birthdays. And she mourns when a resident passesaway.Eliana was named Volunteer of the Year in October 2010 by Iowa Association of Homesand Services for the Aging. At the time of her recognition by the state association, residentsof Oaknoll packed a room to celebrate Elaina’s award and to share one-to-one time withthe enthusiastic spitfire who gives her energy and love to enhance their lives.When Eliana is not volunteering at Oaknoll, you might also find her helping the rabbi at hersynagogue, where she also gives her time and energy because it makes her feel good. nWhile finding it difficult to narrow her long list of things she appreciates about Four Oaks, Janice readilyacknowledges her respect for the staff. “It is truly a quality staff in the work they do with families andchildren. Everyone is remarkable in their competency and character.”Four Oaks recognizes the loyalty and dedication of Janice Baumback.As the tree on the Four Oaks logo illustrates, success can only be achieved through the commitmentand balance of kids, families and communities. Four Oaks expects success – and achieves it. n1410 South 1st Ave, Iowa City, IA 52240MISSION:The mission of Goodwill of the Heartland is to advance the social and economicwell-being of people who experience barriers to independence.1916 Waterfront Dr., Iowa City, IA 52240MISSION:Assure that children become successful adults.SERVICES:Four Oaks P.A.L. Program, Prevention Programs, Community & School-basedPrograms, Residential and Emergency ServicesSERVICES:Goodwill provides an array of services that assist individuals to live moreindependently, both socially and financially.• Employment Services• Center-based Employment Services• ACCESS• Supported Community Living Services• Dayhabilitation Services.United Way of Johnson County | 7