tagline graphic: empowering seniors, enriching lives

Volunteer News & Updates

September 2023

TREASURED.


Wecome fall, my favorite time of the year-the crisp autumn evenings, amber sunsets and richness of color abound. It's time to pull out those cozy sweaters and sweatshirts, grab a warm drink, sit by the fire and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us. As the harvest season unfolds, I like to take time to pause, remember and reflect. My heart rejoices as I ponder the goodness you share with others and our senior community. I am grateful to be part of this organization and to know each of you. Your selflessness is heartening and I get to see the kindness in humanity every day.


It was such fun to gather at Three Oaks Recreation. Huge shout out and thank you to those who made it all come together and to everyone who was able to be there. And if you weren't there, you were missed, but certainly not forgotten. We laughed, visited, and wrapped up another meaningful season of service. The food was delicious, the views lovely, but your company and connection made the evening memorable. I am still in awe over the numbers shared that evening. It really does take a Village, thank you for being part of ours. And while the hours, miles, dollars and numbers are profound, it is the lives that you touch that make the greatest impact of all.


As we transition to fall, remember, you are truly valued and treasured. Happy fall!


With gratitude,


Kerri Sutter

Volunteer Program Coordinator


AARP logo

Scott Rebman

Transportation Specialist


Mark your calendars for October 17th and 18th, because you won't want to miss our AARP Safe Driver Class! With a curriculum designed to make you a more vigilant and informed driver, this program is more than just a refresher course; it’s a smart investment in your safety on the road.


Dates: October 17th & 18th

Time: 9:30am - 1:30pm (Both days mandatory for certificate)

Where: SCVN Office - 42 East Street, Crystal Lake

A light meal will be provided


What's In It For You?

  • Refresh Your Skills: Brush up on essential driving skills and modern rules of the road.
  • Maneuver Like a Pro: Learn tried-and-true techniques for handling left turns, navigating roundabouts, and understanding right-of-way.
  • Save on Car Insurance: Completing this course could qualify you for a discount on your car insurance!


No Cost, Big Rewards!

As a thank-you for your volunteer efforts, we're covering the entire cost of the class, which usually amounts to $25 for non-AARP members and $20 for AARP members.


We can only accommodate a limited number of attendees, so reserve your spot today and steer your way to safer driving!

Sign Up Today!
Welcome graphic

We're thrilled to welcome the following volunteers to the SCVN network! Thank you for helping our seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life.


We are always looking for new volunteers, with drivers being our greatest need. Know someone who wants to make a difference? Reach out to Kerri today!

  • Mason S.
  • Jill F.
  • Diane S.
Upcoming events graphic

Stay up to date with what is happening at SCVN!

Discover upcoming volunteer opportunities, workshops, and community events that you can get involved in:


10/14-10/15 | Fall Diddley!

SCVN is returning to Fall Diddley! Fall Diddley is a craft show held at the Boone County Fairgrounds with more than 300 vendors. Sponsored by The Mental Health Resource League for McHenry County, proceeds from Fall Diddley go to support many non-profit organizations - SCVN included! Help us support them, as they support us. Thank you to all those signed up to volunteer. We look forward to seeing you there!


10/17-10/18 | AARP Safe Driver Training

See Scott's message above!


10/21 | Serve A Senior this Sweetest Day 9:00am-11:00am

Meet at the SCVN office with other volunteers for a group yard project. Please bring gloves and a rake and we will help out an area senior. Coffee and cider donuts 8:30am! Please call the office or let Kerri know you are coming.


10/31 | Happy Halloween!

Costumes encouraged, stop in for a treat.


11/2023 | Appeal Letter Volunteers

Watch for details in October's newsletter.


11/23-11/24 | Happy Thanksgiving! Office Closed

Volunteer Milestones

September Volunteer Anniversaries



We celebrate and thank you!


13 Years of Service

Sandy P.


10 Years of Service

Kathy V.


4 Years of Service

Todd K., Sally S.


3 Years of Service

Kate E., Sandy R., Adam W.


2 Years of Service

Claudia A., Al E., Laura F., Carol G., Debra M., Lauren S.,Lorraine S., Bill T.


1 Year of Service

Pam B.,

October Birthdays

Wishing you a wonderful month of celebrating, and a year filled with wellness and joy!



Adam W.

Gene S.

Yolanda R.

Sue C.

Sue G.

Alex P

Diane R.

James R.

Paulette R.

Jordan J.

Gary W.

Deb C.

Cathy B.

Carol F.

David D.

Tom F.

Grace F.

Barb B.

James and Mark

Empowering Seniors: You're Never Too Old for School-A Journey of Learning & Friendship


After a year of volunteering for SCVN doing deliveries and providing office support, I still had not driven any of our care receivers. My truck was ideal for food boxes and medical equipment, but much too high for most seniors. One day, Scott reached out with a request from a care receiver looking for a driver with a large vehicle. This CR was tall and beginning classes at MCC twice a week. After two semesters of driving Mark to MCC, we have gotten to know each other’s interests in music, art, Labrador retrievers, sports, and family. It was a perfect fit at a perfect time. I needed to establish a meaningful and consistent schedule, one that still allowed me to drive my kids to and from school, while also taking Mark to classes. We have enjoyed hundreds of miles to and from MCC, but the laughter, encouragement and connection forged journeying through post pandemic life is what has been most rewarding.

-James, SCVN Volunteer, Sept 2023


Dear SCVN,


I just want to express my deep gratitude to James, who, unwaveringly drove me to my art class at MCC most of the 5 months I was there. The class was a wonderful journey, growing experience for me at 68 1/2 and being retired. I'm taking classes for credit. One day I may have my 2 year associates degree. It's never too late. I'm also happy to have an "A" for my grade.

-Mark, SCVN Care Receiver, May 2023

Harvard Senior Center Logo

SHIP Counseling


Are you a Medicare participant? The SCVN office will be a host site on Thursdays through the open enrollment period for Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) counseling provided by the Harvard Community Senior Center. Appointments are required.


Call the Harvard Community Senior Center to set up your free appointment today - (815) 943-2740

"In the tapestry of life, volunteers are a treasure, weaving kindness and hope into the fabric of their community."

- Author Unknown

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