Jewish Family Services is blessed to have amazing volunteers who have stepped up to the plate during these difficult pandemic times. One of those shinning stars is JFS volunteer Maxine “Max” Garrison, who has been working with JFS older adult client, Saundra.
Saundra — a 74-year-old Kansas City native who fell on hard times — has been a JFS client since 2018. She receives food from the JFS food pantry, belongs to the agency’s Help@Home program and gets rides to appointments through the JET Express volunteer driver program. Saundra is also part of JFS’ Tech Connect program for older adults.
Two years ago, Max, who is a freelance writer and editor, found time to work as a volunteer at the JFS food pantry. When food pantry protocols changed because of COVID-19 and prevented Max from being on site to volunteer, she happily pivoted. Max stepped up to help with JFS’ Calling Connections “because it felt right helping people feel connected,” she said. That’s when a match was made between Max and Saundra.
Max and Saundra have not met in person because of the pandemic, but they talk regularly. “Besides my regular check-ins, I call her when the Chiefs are playing because we are both fans,” Max said.
Those regular calls have made a difference in Saundra’s life.
“Max and my client have formed a charming relationship,” said Jana Fielder, JFS older adult care manager. “Saundra has frequent hospitalizations and Max keeps track of her whereabouts — consistently asking if there is anything that the client needs.”
Max is being recognized by JFS as its January Volunteer of the Month for her dedication to helping others.
“Well, bless her. She deserves it and more — she deserves two months,” said Saundra when she heard the news. “I love her dearly, but I can’t tell her what I need because Max will send it to me. Do you know that she sent me a brand-new pair of sandals for my swollen feet? She also sent me books, puzzles, and a blanket.”
To learn more about JFS volunteer opportunities, send an email to or call (913) 730-1410.