Sharing Time, Talent + Friendly Visits

May 31, 2017

by RVNA

Meet RVNA Volunteer, Vicki Mueller

Vicki Mueller joined RVNA in 2005 as a committee member and director on the board and has been highly engaged ever since. “Once involved, I was hooked!” she says. A Ridgefield resident since 1999, Mueller lives with her husband, Robert, and works as a retirement strategist at Charter Research & Investment Group, Inc. helping clients navigate important life events — such as retirement, sale of a business, inheritance or family illness – and plan for the full spectrum of aging.

The Muellers’ three children are grown, but Vicki keeps busy with work, volunteering and plenty of activities, including gardening, rowing crew, and her most recent discovery … Mahjongg, which she learned through a class at Ridgefield Continuing Education. “I highly recommend it!” Mueller says.

Q: What originally motivated you to get involved with RVNA?

A: I was a branch manager for many years in financial services. My former employer (Charles Schwab) encouraged us to get involved in our communities which I did mostly by teaching financial literacy. One of my clients served on the RVNA Board and asked me to join the finance committee. Also, my mom was a visiting nurse while I was growing up in Rhode Island so I knew firsthand how valuable their services are to the surrounding communities.

Q: What kind of volunteering do you do?

A: Mostly committee and board service, but over the years I have gotten involved with a number of little projects. We sold emergency backpacks one year to show the community that RVNA plays an important role in emergency preparedness for our town. My daughter, Christie, was a Girl Scout and her troop helped assemble the back packs for sale. I work at the Vote and Vax flu clinic which has become a valued town tradition. We had a record turnout this year! I am also a Friendly Visitor to a very sweet, senior, couple in Redding. I help them keep paperwork organized and pay bills on time.

Q: Can you tell us a little more about the couple you visit in Redding?

Certainly. I have been visiting them since November 2016. They are a lovely couple and very devoted to each other. They have no children or close relatives and are facing increasing health issues. It’s a very challenging time for them because they need to stop driving and make big decisions about whether to age at home or move to senior or assisted-living. In my volunteer role, I just visit with them. I listen to their
concerns and challenges while we sit comfortably and go through the mail together. I love spending time with them and I always think of my parents while I’m there. RVNA also makes sure the rest of their needs are met in a number of different ways.

Q: What do you like most about your role?

A: It’s just a great place to volunteer! From the beginning I have always said I receive much more than I give in volunteering. The board is made up of dynamic folks from all different professions. I learn something new every time we meet. The RVNA employees are professional and hard working. Everyone cares deeply about this organization. Building an organization with vibrant, dedicated, engaged employees and volunteers is not an easy accomplishment today. The caring part shows everywhere. ■

http://ridgefieldvna.org/sharing-talent-time-even-friendly-visits/