How can I become involved with or otherwise support NAN?

There are several ways to participate with NAN:

  • Volunteer to be a block coordinator, especially if your block does not yet have one. If you are interested, see below.
  • Organize a presentation or discussion on a topic about which you are knowledgeable or have a special interest.
  • Communicate with NAN leadership if you know of someone else who might give a good presentation or discussion to the community.
  • Host a NAN potluck or tea party at your home or at the Clubhouse.
  • Let a block coordinator know if somebody on your street might benefit from NAN services.
  • Make a tax-deductible contribution to NAN to help support activities and services.

How can I become a NAN volunteer?

To become a volunteer and offer assistance to a neighbor, contact JoAnn Krecke, our volunteer coordinator, Miriam Kelty, Elizabeth Zinner, or any NAN board member. They will talk to you about what types of help you can provide and arrange for volunteer training. NAN welcomes and needs volunteers to fulfill our mission of improving the quality of life of all Bannockburnians, especially those who want to age in our community and remain in their homes. You can read the Volunteer Handbook for more information.

What is a block coordinator?

A block coordinator (BC) is a volunteer who is the primary point of contact for residents on a street, or part of a street, with NAN. The BC coordinates between residents who request assistance, volunteers who can offer assistance and the NAN leadership. The BC is sensitive to the needs of residents within their block. The BC keeps in touch with what is happening on their block and provides information to NAN leadership about who has moved in or out, who may have needs that NAN can help with, who may be able to provide assistance. They are the key “connectors” of NAN.

Who is the block coordinator for my street or block?

There is a list of the current NAN Block Coordinators, arranged by street address.

If you see “Block Coordinator Needed!” for a particular street or block, there is currently an immediate vacancy.

I am interested in serving as a block coordinator. What would be expected of me in such a role?

Specific duties include:

  • Complete volunteer training.
  • Compile and maintain a list of names, addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses of residents on your block. The Bannockburn Directory street address listing can help with this.
  • Meet the people in your block and note who may benefit from NAN services.
  • Recognizing that most people are not comfortable asking for help, gently and respectfully inquire and explore the status of older or less-abled residents in your neighborhood.
  • Coordinate volunteers offering help with those in your neighborhood who request assistance.
  • Participate in an annual block coordinator meeting or workshop.
  • Communicate the needs of your neighborhood in a timely way with NAN board members and other block coordinators.
  • Communicate to other Bannockburn coordinators about new arrivals, births and deaths within households in your neighborhood.
  • Make a commitment to serve as block coordinator for a one year term. Terms may be renewed.

If you are interested in becoming a block coordinator, contact JoAnn Krecke.