FISH-ing For Volunteers

FISH of Newtown is a volunteer organization that offers rides to residents who cannot drive themselves, and who have no other friend or family member who can drive them, to doctors’ appointments and home again.

This volunteer service has existed in Newton since 1969 and has functioned very well given the generosity of Newtown volunteers and the relatively small number of people living in this town who had no other way of getting to their important medical appointments.

But times have changed. With the construction boom of age-restricted apartments and condominiums and the accompanying influx of residents, the handful of FISH volunteers are being overwhelmed.

Volunteering for FISH is a beneficial experience for men and women just retired from the workforce, says Ellen Parrella. It provides a gratifying feeling of “giving back to the community,” of “helping those in need right here in Newtown,” of “extending one’s usefulness,” and the opportunity to meet longtime residents with whom to reminisce about times past, Mrs Parrella pointed out.

Today FISH of Newtown is badly in need of new volunteers. Some FISH drivers have been driving for the past 20 years and need to cut back on their activities upon doctors’ orders.

The commitment for a FISH driver is only one half-day two times a month.

For further information call Colleen Honan at 426-0714, Fred Stakel at 426-2336, or Ellen Parrella at 426-6470.