It's official, unfortunately. The Foothills Village Board of Directors sent notice to members, volunteers and associated service providers announcing the dissolution of the organization. A registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, TFV worked to provide options for seniors hoping to age comfortably in their own homes.
"Everyone agrees that the idea is a sound one, but without a growing membership and financial support, it's impossible to maintain an office and employ someone to coordinate the activities of our volunteers and members," said Merry Richon, co-president.
"Volunteers delivered gourmet meals, drove members to doctor's appointments, did minor repairs, went grocery shopping, even accompanied a member on walks around Harmon Field." said Richon. "We offered bill paying, light yard work, sunshine visits - all those little things that make life easier and more enjoyable.
"But even with our ongoing promotional activities, presentations to civic and church groups, conversations with individuals and sponsorship of senior interest seminars, there was a lack of broad acceptance. TFV was unable to convince the community of the current and future need for its program."
Betsy Freeman, the initial force behind the creation of TFV, is understandably sad to see the dissolution of the project. Based on a similar program in Boston that she'd read about in AARP magazine, she worked hard to bring like-minded people together to initiate a great concept. The result was a dynamic board, and a dedicated band of volunteers and service providers.
Tom Waldenfels, whose mother was one of the first members, gives great credit to the board, volunteers and office manager of TFV. "They tried to do something really groundbreaking. The concept is brilliant and everyone gave their all to make it a success. Similar organizations are sure to emerge all over the country in the course of the next few years as the population ages. Maybe next time it'll fly here, but it won't be because better people are running it - you couldn't find better people than we had anywhere. They're the best."
In the letter to membership and volunteers, TFV thanked everyone for their support of the organization. "We were especially thrilled to receive recognition from the Community Foundation, which awarded us two grants from their Unrestricted Fund. It helped immensely with office space and administration costs," said Allen Richon, co-president of TFV. "All unused funds will be donated back to PCCF so those funds may continue to work for the community."
"It's hard to be first," said Betsy Freeman. "A new idea such as The Foothills Village takes a while for the public to digest and appreciate. My hope is that this idea will spring up again and Polk County seniors and Baby Boomers will realize what a great idea it is and support it to the fullest."