Frequently Asked Questions
We believe in the power of curiosity and a life of lifelong learning.
Why should I consider joining Carquinez Village?
What specific benefits will I get?
How do I know my membership will be worth it?
Are members expected to be volunteers?
Aside from meeting the age requirement, are there any other requirements?
I’m healthy. I don’t need help. Why should I join now?
Why do you need to charge dues if Carquinez Village is a volunteer organization?
What if I’m on a fixed income and cannot afford the membership dues?
Can I buy a membership as a gift for my parents or someone else?
How many members does Carquinez Village have? How old are they?
How long has Carquinez Village been operating?
Why should I consider joining Carquinez Village?
If you are interested in getting both support and stimulation, Carquinez Villiage is here to provide it. You will be a part of a community of older adults who are interested in remaining in their homes, living life as fully as they can, and in helping you to do the same. Have you heard of the saying that, “Aging is a team sport?” The Village is based on this. You’ll make new friends. You’ll have the opportunity to join them in a variety of activities. Life won’t be boring! It will be enriched.
What specific benefits will I get?
You won’t be alone when you have a problem or need. You’ll have a community of caring volunteers ready to provide you with transportation and assist you in a variety of other ways––with household repairs and gardening, with a friendly phone call or visit, and more.
You’ll have the opportunity to learn and do new things like attending informational, cultural and social activities and events that include a Senior Speaker Series, potluck dinners, and field trips.
Information and help will be just a phone call away. If we can’t assist you, we’ll make referrals to other available services.
You can be a part of a community of older adults––and gain peace of mind knowing that someone is always there for you.
How do I know my membership will be worth it?
It’s hard to put a price tag on peace of mind, which is essentially what Carquinez Village offers. However, we’ve learned something Carquinez Village is one of approximately 500 villages around the country. Surveys of members show that 60% feel more connected with other people, 51% have an improved quality of life, 40% are happier, and 35% say their health is better.
Are members expected to be volunteers?
No, there is no requirement to be a volunteer. If you are interested in volunteering, however, you would be more than welcome. There are a number of members who are volunteering and enjoying the satisfaction of assisting others.
Aside from meeting the age requirement, are there any other requirements?
Yes, Carquinez Village members must be ambulatory (with or without the use of a cane or walker) and cannot be afflicted with memory, emotional, or mental health problem. Carquinez Village is not a medical organization and is, therefore, not equipped to provide medical support or transport members who are reliant on wheelchairs.
I’m healthy. I don’t need help. Why should I join now?
Many members view their membership as an insurance policy. Just as they don’t wait until they are in an accident to buy auto insurance, they realize that a health problem or other need can arise at any time. They have witnessed friends and family members who were fine one day and faced with debilitating health challenges the next. They believe that Carquinez Village is a smart investment. Others join because they recognize that a key to staying healthy is remaining connected with others and using their minds, and they understand that Carquinez Village is an organization specifically designed to support these goals.
Why do you need to charge dues if Carquinez Village is a volunteer organization?
It’s amazing what it costs to run an organization! The budget of Carquinez Village includes the following kinds of expenses: printing and materials, website development and management, software, member services, supplies and postage, part-time staffing to assist member's needs, equipment, publicity, occasional ticket purchases, fuel for volunteer drivers, and more. Carquinez Village is a nonprofit organization. Every dollar collected from membership fees are directly invested into keeping the village functional and sustainable for the members we serve.
What if I’m on a fixed income and cannot afford the membership dues?
You can apply for a scholarship from the Carquinez Village dues assistance fund. We have yet to turn anyone away from becoming a member.
Can I buy a membership as a gift for my parents or someone else?
You certainly can. However, before the membership is activated, we will want to make certain that the recipient(s) of your gift wants to be a Carquinez Village member(s).
How many members does Carquinez Village have? How old are they?
Carquinez Village has approximately 160 members living in both Benicia and Vallejo. Members can join at any time during the year. Therefore, this number of members changes regularly. Approximately two-thirds of Carquinez Village members are between the ages of 60 and 80 while one-third is between the ages of 80 and 100.
How long has Carquinez Village been operating?
A group of older adults started in early 2015 and worked for two and one-half years to prepare to launch Carquinez Village in April 2017.
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