Stories of Service

A Giving Soul

Peter Monahan

Senior Companions - Grand Traverse & Leelanau Counties

Friendly, kind, caring, a great listener; describe Peter Monahan! He is an amazing person that gives so much of his time and makes a difference in the lives of seniors that he spends time with.

Peter has been a Senior Companion Volunteer in Grand Traverse and Leelanau County for over 5 years now!

Peter is a great volunteer who really makes an effort to help his clients achieve their needs.

What prompted you to get involved? -I wanted to do something besides reading with my retirement. I have dealt with people all my life and wanted to get back into being around people. It sounded like something I would like to do and I love it, it is fun.

How has volunteering benefited you? -I think it has kept me younger than if I wouldn’t be involved. It improves your life when you are active and seeing people each week.

What keeps you volunteering year after year?  -I love this. I like the people and getting out to visit them. I have made some great relationships and friendships.

What is one of your most memorable moments? -One of my memorable moments was also a sad moment. I learned at that time what an impact I had made on my client’s life and his family. I was visiting one of my clients who was ill in the hospital. Some of his family was there also with him. Hospital staff came in and said it would be best if only family was there at the time. They started asking who I was and when I started to explain when my client’s niece spoke up and said I was family. It meant so much to be considered family in their eyes. It also allowed me to stay with my friend a bit longer before he passed.

What other community services/organizations are you involved in?    -I used to serve on the State Board of Education of Illinois when I lived there. I served around 7 years on the board.

What are some of your hobbies that keep you busy outside of SVP? -I like reading, as well as history.

What would you say to someone interested in SVP? -This is fulfilling to you as a person. If you enjoy talking to people then you would enjoy being a Senior Companion. It’s great because when you show up your clients are waiting for you because they look forward to your visit so much.

Thank you so much Peter for your commitment to the program! We appreciate you and your time that you give! You have been such a wonderful volunteer and we know that we can count on you to help out! Peter has also been featured on the "Road After 55" program on 7 & 4 Check it out>>> http://youtu.be/yiCf2pQ6uLw