We are living through some strange times, Mudder Nation.
We know you’ve heard it before, and it will continue to be true for at least a little longer. As much as we are feeling more separated and distanced by the current pandemic, we are also finding alternative ways of connecting. Online communities are more important than ever, FaceTime is the new happy hour, and as we reach out and connect virtually, we’re finding inspiration and good stories arising from our communities.
Last week we brought you the story of Dr. Pete Morris, an Australian doctor working on the front lines of this epidemic. He was inspired to adapt the Tough Mudder Pledge to fit the current times and shared his message online.
This week, we are bringing you the work of Eumi Wymbs, a member of the Tough Mudder Bootcamp community and board member of Store to Door, an Oregon-based non-profit that delivers groceries to homebound seniors.
We spoke with Eumi and learned more about the mission of Store to Door, the good work they are doing and what motivates Eumi to keep going.
How Does Store To Door Assist Seniors In Your Community?
Store to Door supports independent living for seniors and adults with disabilities by providing an affordable, personal, volunteer-based grocery shopping/delivery and friendly visitation service. Our mission is to help seniors and people with disabilities to age in place in the setting of their choice while providing them with nourishment, connection and dignity.
As the population in the US continues to grow older, the need for services like Store to Door becomes more urgent, vital and life-saving. Food insecurity and social isolation for our older population is a problem that can be remedied.
How Did You Become Involved With The Organization?
Store to Door was started in Minnesota in 1984 and brought to Oregon in 1990 and Store to Door of Oregon will be celebrating its 30th anniversary this year! We rely on community and corporate volunteers to be order takers, shoppers and delivery drivers.
I found Store to Door at a non-profit fair in Portland 6 years ago and have been a board member since 2016. I’ve always had an affection for seniors and love learning from them and their wealth of experience and knowledge. As a delivery driver, I get to spend time, checking in with my clients as I put away their groceries. It’s the highlight of my week! I also enjoy shopping when my schedule permits… It’s like a fun scavenger hunt!
How Is The Current Pandemic Affecting Your Operations?
The current pandemic has dramatically increased the need for our services; many homebound people have less access to groceries as a result of the crisis. We have been working hard to meet the added need, and to make sure we keep our clients, volunteers, and staff as safe as possible.
In addition to providing masks, gloves, and wipes, we have shifted to a no-contact delivery model to make sure we are adhering to CDC social distancing guidelines. Loneliness and social isolation are a major challenge for homebound people, and these are only exacerbated by the health crisis. In response, we founded a weekly friendly phone check-in program for our clients, in addition to their regular order-talking and delivery points of social connection to our program. We are committed to serving as many homebound folks as we can during the crisis and beyond.
How Can Mudder Nation Help Support Your Mission Right Now?
If you are interested in supporting our work locally, visit here to see our different volunteer roles and sign up. We are also in need of donations to support our increased work currently and to sustain our work into the future – please visit here if you are able to give! ????
How Are You Personally Staying Busy And Positive During These Strange Times?
To stay positive during this unprecedented and stressful time, I’m participating in a 21 Day Meditation, which is helping me stay present and grateful. I’m also stretching, taking nightly walks under the stars, and zooming with friends and family. I’m enjoying quality family time cooking, eating, netflixing, playing games and puzzling.
What Are You Looking Forward To Doing Again Once All Of This Is Over?
I’m looking forward to working out with my Tough Mudder crew! I also can’t wait to meet friends for happy hour and travel around the country in my newly converted sprinter van.
If you would like to nominate a Mudder of the Week, please make a submission here. Mudder of the Week is sponsored by Navy Federal Credit Union. Since 1933, Navy Federal has grown from seven members to over eight million members. And, since that time, their mission has remained the same: to serve and enrich the lives of those in the military community
