Island Volunteer Caregivers Celebrates 30 Years of Care, Connection, and Community

When a neighbor needs a ride to a medical appointment, shopping support at the grocery store, a warm meal after surgery, or simply someone to sit and listen, Island Volunteer Caregivers (IVC) has been there, quietly and consistently showing up for 30 years. This year, IVC marks three decades of connecting volunteers with neighbors who need support.

What began in 1996 as a small, volunteer-led effort has grown into a vital part of the Bainbridge Island community, providing free services that help older adults, individuals living with disabilities, and others facing challenges remain independent and connected.

Through the dedication of hundreds of volunteers and a small, staff of seven, IVC has built a support system for the community grounded in the belief that no one should have to face life challenges alone. IVC volunteers provide transportation to medical appointments, the grocery store, the hair salon, the Senior Center, Helpline House, and other everyday destinations that keep life full.

They also offer companionship, caregiver and grief support, meal delivery, and practical help with daily tasks, because living well is about more than meeting essential needs. It’s also about staying connected to the people, places, and routines that make life feel like your own.

“Thirty years ago, a small group of community members saw neighbors in need and believed that neighbors taking care of neighbors could make a difference.,” says Executive Director Joanne Maher. “That belief still holds true today. Much has changed; the need has only grown but our founders laid a foundation so strong that it has carried us here, and it will carry us forward. Every volunteer, every donor, every partner who has shown up for a neighbor is part of that legacy.”

The need has never been greater. Approximately 27 percent of Bainbridge Island residents are 65 or older, many living alone. In 2025, IVC volunteers drove 53,000+ miles to transport care receivers, delivered 1,400+ meals and 1,700+ bouquets through the Flowers From the Heart Program, and provided 3,300+ hours of companionship.

“The transportation services provided by IVC have allowed my mom to regain her independence in this phase of her life—getting out, participating in activities, finding her joy and purpose, and reconnecting with old friends,” says Lena Wilson, daughter of an IVC care receiver. “She looks forward to getting out and even the friendships she’s forming with her IVC drivers. It’s brought back the pep in her step. IVC has given her so much more than a ride.”

Each year, IVC hosts its annual Gather & Give Gala, and this year’s 30th celebration – held earlier this month at Kiana Lodge- “was highly successful,” says Maher. “We’re not a traditional non-profit. Our success is with community engagement. We’re all about making connections. We make connections from those who want to support our mission. … The connections and relationships (developed at the Gala) were wonderful. With all that we made our number. It’s truly an ode to the culture of Bainbridge Island.”

Maher says IVC has about 300 volunteers, some of whom have been associated with the agency since its beginning 30 years ago. “Without volunteers we would not exits,” she adds. “They are what propels our programs.” All IVC services are free and are supported by the generosity of donors, such as those who attended the recent Gala. The agency’s ultimate goal, Maher stresses, is to help those in need – especially older adults and seniors – overcome “gaps in services” that aren’t being met by other local nonprofits.

“We continue to enable gaps to be closed,” Maher says, “so people can continue to live independently in their (own) homes.”

About Island Volunteer Caregivers
IVC is a Bainbridge Island nonprofit providing free, volunteer-powered support, transportation, meals, companionship, and practical assistance—to aging adults, adults with disabilities, and adults facing adversity. To volunteer, donate, or learn more go to www.ivcbainbridge.org.

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