Cheverly Village – what’s it worth?
How affordable is it? The Village is committed to being
affordable for everyone in Cheverly. Membership fees are
set according to a sliding scale reflecting household income.
For example, someone living alone with an annual income
up to $30,000 would pay only $90 for a year’s membership;
while the same person with income above $50,000 would
pay $450 per year.
What are its benefits? Member benefits include rides to doctors or stores, help with small tasks around the house and yard, assistance with a computer or cell phone, helpful information about government programs and neighbor-recommended businesses, home visits and respite support for caregivers, as well as social activities and presentations. Members have the assurance that one phone call will bring help or advice from a friendly, understanding service coordinator.
How do its benefits compare with commercial services? Some examples: the minimum for a round trip by Uber to Washington Hospital Center, Bowie, or Bethesda would run $30, $42 or $72, respectively; and a longer trip such as Annapolis or Gaithersburg would cost $80 or $110. For a
minor repair or help organizing a closet, handymen or “taskers” in our area advertise hourly rates of $60 or more with a two-hour minimum. There is no fee for Cheverly Village services.
Why does the Village charge anything? After all, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and services are provided by unpaid volunteers. Member fees and donations cover: liability insurance to protect
members and volunteers; training for volunteers; membership in related groups that help us improve member services; outreach costs, such as for the website and space use; and, soon, some office services and part-time staff.
What about the intangibles? While Uber or Lyft will drive you to an address, the Village provides a caring companion who will see to it that you find your doctor’s office, will bring you
home immediately afterward and provide companionship along the way. Although a commercial service can deliver meals while you’re home recovering from surgery, a Village volunteer will provide a friendly visit along with your meal. No dollar value can capture the fun and fellowship of Game Night Potlucks and other Village social activities.
All together, Cheverly Village members receive the companionship and support to remain in our homes as valued, active members of the community as we face the uncertainties of aging. That is priceless.
To learn how to become a Cheverly Village member or volunteer, or how to make a tax-deductible
contribution, please call us at (240) 770 1033, write us at [email protected], or check
out www.cheverlyvillage.org.
— Teresa Williams and Diane La Voy, for Cheverly Village Board of Directors