The Shepherd's Center of Richmond (TSCOR)

WHAT IS THE SHEPHERD’S CENTER?

The Shepherd’s Center of Richmond (TSCOR) is not a place or a building.  It is a non-profit, service and education organization for people around 50 and over who participate in programs of mutual interest and help their neighbors through volunteer service.  Founded by Bob Seiler and incorporated in March of 1984, TSCOR is a successful and inspiring model of just how resourceful a group of older men and women can be in making Richmond a more caring community for older people. 

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Our Mission is to encourage older adults to remain active and independent through enrichment programs and volunteer service to their peers.

Programs & Services:

LIFELONG LEARNING — The Center’s Open University (OU) offers almost limitless opportunity for intellectual challenge and social interaction. Classes and lectures are held at churches in three areas of Richmond.  Programs at the three sites differ.  Eight-week terms in the fall, winter, and spring feature well-qualified lecturers or instructors, many of whom are faculty or retired faculty members of area colleges and universities.  All instructors volunteer their time.  We are one of the best bargains when it comes to lifelong learning in our area.  Take a look at our Spring 2018 class schedule to see an example of the subjects offered.

To pay for classes, you can print a copy of the schedule, fill out the registration sheet on the back page and mail it and a check to the office, or pay with your credit card by clicking on the Open University tab above, or just sign up the day of classes at the OU location. Pre-registration is not required and we do not register for individual courses.  You may attend any or all that you desire!

Open University courses include foreign languages, literature, history, political science, art, music, religious studies, philosophy, science, writing, estate planning, Feldenkrais and yoga. Each term averages 400 registrants, and more than 70 people give their time and expertise as teachers, hospitality team members, and organizers to make it all happen.  The Shepherd’s Center Education Committee is completely responsible for planning and carrying out the myriad of details each term.  Many people have attended the Open University for more than 10 years, citing the friendships and continued learning keeps them happy and eager to return each year.

CLIENT SERVICES— The Shepherd’s Center volunteers provide transportation to medical appointments and to grocery stores to those over 60 in our community who, for numerous reasons, are unable to drive themselves.  Transportation has been recognized as one of the most important and under-addressed needs for older adults and the demand will only increase as Baby Boomers continue turning 65 in record numbers.  Keeping our older adults and seniors healthy and well fed is essential and is at the core of our mission. Each year, the Center’s volunteers provide more than 1,500 round-trip rides.   Volunteer drivers are always needed and it’s an easy way to give back. And now it is even easier.  We have a web-based program where volunteer drivers can go online and select assignments that fit into their schedule themselves.

Other services, such as light handy-person help and friendly calls, are also available. There are no fees for services and membership is not required.  We do gladly accept donations!

TRAVEL– The Center offers an exciting array of travel opportunities each year, from local one day tours to several day excursions.  Click the travel tab at the top of the page to see upcoming trips.

VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP- The Shepherd’s Center is exceptional in its capacity to engage volunteers in leadership roles.  The Richmond center employs only two full-time and two part-time people. Volunteers carry out all other work, giving more than 10,000 hours of service annually.  This work ranges from teaching to volunteer services to organizational planning, committee work, and board leadership.  – The Shepherd’s Center’s programs and services are all carried out by volunteers – people like you! We need your help to get seniors in Richmond to medical appointments and to grocery stores. We need your teaching and hospitality talents. We need your expertise on our Board and its many committees & teams.  If you live in the Richmond area and are 50 and beyond, this is the community for you!  Look at our list of volunteer opportunities.

For over 30 years, we have been a vital and successful organization that works in the Richmond community.  As the Baby Boomers grow into retirement, the numbers of people wanting meaningful service opportunities, as well as those needing help themselves, will continue to grow.  The Center is not an “agency”.  It receives no government or United Way funding.  It is a group of caring people who have developed a neighbor-helping-neighbor approach in solving many of the issues of growing older – lack of transportation, isolation, loneliness, and the need to “give back” in order to find meaning and purpose.

BECOME A MEMBER – Becoming a member is easy.  Send a check for $25, payable to The Shepherd’s Center, to the address below, and write “membership” in the note field.  Make sure to include your name, address, and phone number.  Membership is renewed in July, when we begin our new fiscal year.  Being a member gives you discounts on Open University tuition and trip prices, as well as an open invitation all year-long to join us at the Open University at lunchtime to hear speakers free of tuition costs.  But most important, your membership makes you a part of this caring and vital group of people who do so much to improve the lives of seniors in Richmond.

VOLUNTEER!  We love volunteers.  Contact Julie Adams-Buchanan at 804.355.7282 for more information.  We can find a place for your talents!

DONATE!  The Center fulfills its mission with donations from area congregations, businesses, foundations, but most importantly, from individuals who want to help make Richmond a kinder community for older adults.  We receive no government funding and your gift is tax-deductible.

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