Our Volunteers

Elders in Action is powered by the wisdom and talent of our volunteers. People of all backgrounds and experience share their unique skills to improve the lives of others. Enjoy some of their stories on the "Our Volunteers" page.

Lorraine Griffey

"The more involved you get, the more interesting it becomes!"

A few months after the death of my husband, I became involved with Elders in Action upon the urging of two of my League of Women Voter friends who have been involved for many years and were instrumental in beginning the Elder Friendly ® Business Certification Program.

I first took the training to be an evaluator, was impressed with the quality of the training, and then went out on my own. What a wonderful program to anonymously go into a business, upon their invitation, go through the evaluation process and make recommendations for improvements to better accommodate older adults and those with disabilities. I have been included in several of the manager meetings with Elders in Action staff and businesses to review the evaluations and make suggestions, which have been very rewarding.

Nearly four years ago I joined the Elders in Action Commission, which is the advocacy arm of the organization and advisory group to the Multnomah County Aging and Disabilities Department as well as working with the City of Portland, and other agencies. This past year I also became the Commission's liaison to the EiA Board of Directors. The more involved you get, the more interesting it becomes!

Elders in Action staff sending off our University of Portland intern, Megan Bell, to the Federated States of Micronesia with Jesuit Volunteers International (JVI).
JVI provides dedicated college graduates a two-year experience of direct service with the poor, formation, and living together as community.

Other Volunteers' Stories