Assisting elderly adults for the past 11 years has been the passion of Kimberly Smith, executive director of Johnson County Senior Services.
JCSS was launched in 1979, originally to provide life-saving transportation for critical health care. Kimberly says the nonprofit’s main objectives support enhancing the quality of life for older adults while enabling them to live with dignity and independence in their homes for as long as possible. During the year ending in 2022, JCSS supporters responded to 29,567 walk-ins, incoming calls and speaking engagements.
“We have a pay-it-forward Durable Medical Equipment (DME) program. JCSS accepts donated supplies and DME, such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, shower seats and bedside commodes, in good condition. The DME is then given to seniors in need for no charge,” explains Kimberly.
Additionally, the group provides free door-to-door transportation to Johnson County residents age 60 and older. “We transport older residents for medical needs, errands, personal appointments and recreational activities,” Kimberly says.
Free essential services to seniors are possible, Kimberly explains, because financial gifts, sponsorships and donated items make it possible. Giving opportunities are offered through several programs: Friends of Seniors, sponsorships and the Sunset Memorial Program.
These services are managed by Kimberly as the only full-time paid employee, two dispatchers who handle incoming calls and seven paid drivers who hold Paid For Hire license endorsements. They plan to celebrate the organization’s 45th anniversary this April 5 with an open house.
Volunteers Needed
For anyone interested in supporting JCSS endeavors, Kimberly says volunteers are needed for roles in office administration, organizing inventory, fundraising, cleaning and maintenance.
317.738.4544
JCSeniorServices.org
“We’re so blessed with amazing volunteers, who constantly help keep all the parts moving.”