Rye’s aging-in-place organization, SPRYE, passed several important milestones recently.

Rye’s aging-in-place organization, SPRYE, passed several important milestones recently.

 

At the time of the organization’s kickoff last fall, the membership numbered 50. The number has now grown to 75, well on the way to a first-year goal of 100.

In order to help older adults stay in their homes, and avoid or delay moves to retirement communities, the group offers a wide range of services.

 

Members make the most of a monthly program of social or cultural events: local museum visits, speaker programs, and current affairs breakfasts. Among the most notable were a workshop with an expert solving the New York Times Sunday Magazine crossword puzzle and a Chinese New Year lunch organized by Rye’s Frank and Margaret Woo. Coming up are trips to the Philip Johnson Glass House, Gracie Mansion, and the Neuberger Museum.

 

Other members make use of the supportive services. SPRYE volunteers — now 40 strong —have provided over 100 free rides to members who have given up their car keys, and need help to get to doctors’ appointments and physical therapy sessions.

 

In other SPRYE acts of kindness:

 

One member volunteered on a weekly basis to help another vision-impaired member, Edith Burpee, with her knitting. Mrs. Burpee’s daughter has been volunteering as a driver, reflecting SPRYE’s mission of neighbors helping neighbors.

 

Grace Ewbank praised volunteers who have driven her to various appointments: “I thank all the wonderful people who come to offer their time. I so appreciate your help.”

 

Volunteer handymen saved members the trouble and cost of professional contractors. One replaced a broken garage door window and repaired a storm door. He also helps assess repair and safety issues — or recommends approved contractors.

 

A new member from Port Chester member thanked a patient and kind volunteer who took her grocery shopping.