Shepherd's Center of Northern Virginia

08/04/2026

What does independence really mean as we age?

Every July we celebrate our nation's independence. For many older adults, celebrating independence isn't once a year, but rather a daily goal. It's about staying in the home they've built a life in, for as long as possible.

Research from the University of Michigan's National Poll on Healthy Aging shows that most adults ages 50–80 want to age in place — but there's a gap between that wish and the support needed to make it happen.

That's where SCNOVA steps in, with three pillars of independence:

🚗 Getting where you need to go — free rides to medical appointments and more, from volunteer drivers. One participant recently commented that each ride is like meeting a new friend!
🔧 Keeping the home livable — our free Handy Helper program tackles minor repairs before they become safety hazards
☎️ Staying connected — our Friendly Visitor and Friendly Caller programs offer mutual benefit, as do our rides!

No one achieves independence entirely on their own; it's a team effort!

👉 Read the full blog and learn how to get involved: https://scnova.pulse.ly/0rve17ohmj

SCNOVA helps older adults in Northern Virginia age in place with free rides, home help, and social connection. Read the research.

08/02/2026

When Barbara started volunteering as a driver with Shepherd's Center of Northern Virginia this spring, she had no idea a chance conversation at a medical appointment would change someone's life!

While waiting for a participant, she met Shelby — a woman struggling to get to her own appointments — and told her about SCNOVA. The very next day, Shelby signed up.

📖 Read all about Barbara and Shelby's connection here:

One ride leads to another! When Barbara began volunteering with SCNOVA, it didn't take long for her generosity to make an impact.

07/30/2026

One ride. One conversation. Two lives changed.

Barbara (on the right in this photo) started volunteering as a driver with SCNOVA in April 2026.

One day, Barbara was waiting for a participant at a medical appointment when she saw a woman waiting for a cab. The two started chatting and the woman, Shelby, shared how hard it was to get to appointments. Barbara told her about Shepherd's Center and the next day, Shelby applied to be a participant.

Now, Barbara drives Shelby to nearly every appointment. What began as two strangers crossing paths has grown into a real friendship — built one ride at a time.

Reliable transportation isn't just about getting from A to B. It's what helps older adults stay independent in the communities they love. Nearly 90% choose to age in place — and dependable rides make that possible.

Want to be part of the next story? Become a volunteer driver with SCNOVA. No special experience needed — just a few hours and a willingness to connect.

👉 Complete a Volunteer Application: https://scnova.pulse.ly/h7r3o8zyjn

Know someone who could use a ride, or someone looking for a meaningful way to give back? Share this post — every ride and every referral builds a stronger, more connected community. 💛

07/28/2026

What’s your family heirloom worth? 👀

Join the Shepherd’s Center of Northern Virginia and Vienna250 for the Americana Appraisal Roadshow on Saturday, Aug. 1 at the Vienna Community Center!

Meet featured appraisers Steve Gouterman of Paradigm Experts, known from the original "Appraisal Roadshow” and Chris Lancette of Orion’s Attic.

Want a head start?

Our appraisers will research select items in advance for registered attendees; simply email photos and any known information to [email protected] with the subject line “Americana Roadshow.”

Important Details-
Admission is free, but pre-registration is required.
Registration opens at 1:30 PM. Appraisers will review items during registration. Show begins at 2:00 PM.
Items for evaluation are at the appraiser's discretion, and evaluation is not guaranteed for all attendees.
Please bring one item for appraisal review. If time permits, appraisers may evaluate additional items.

Register: Use the event hashtag on the flyer, register online at https://auctionsnap.pulse.ly/kv1pbzuyem or call SCNOVA at 703-281-0538.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn more about your special treasure. Perhaps you’ll uncover a surprising piece of history!

of Vienna

07/13/2026

We’d love to have you join us!

06/26/2026

Nearly 2 in 3 older adults say a lack of transportation is one of the biggest barriers to their health. Read why our volunteers are helping people stay healthy, connected and engaged in their community, one mile at a time!

Volunteer drivers at SCNOVA help seniors stay healthy and connected in Northern Virginia by offering free rides to medical appointments.

06/05/2026

Dear Friends,

We wanted to let you know that our Bingo Night scheduled for June 8 has been cancelled.

We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Our team is working on future event plans, and we look forward to gathering with you again soon.
To stay informed about upcoming Bingo Nights and other Shepherd's Center programs, please click the Event Calendar link below for the latest updates.

Thank you for your continued support of Shepherd's Center of Northern Virginia and our mission to help older adults remain independent, connected, and engaged in the community.

Warm regards,
Shepherd's Center of Northern Virginia
https://bit.ly/SCNOVAevents

05/28/2026

May is Older Americans Month, focusing on taking an active role in your own well-being: staying connected, moving your body, eating well, and leaning on the people and programs in your community.

We see that kind of championing every single day at SCNOVA, thanks to our incredible volunteers and programs.

Every hour they give helps an older neighbor stay active, connected, and living life on their own terms.

Want to be part of the story? We're always looking for volunteers — especially this summer! Drivers, Friendly Callers, Handy Helpers, and more. Visit the link below to learn how you can help.
👉 https://scnova.pulse.ly/zrxbizgt7x

05/13/2026

It was an honor to share our annual Volunteeer Appreciation Lunch with a few distinguished guests!

Vienna Mayor Linda Colbert for Mayor joined us to share her support and gratitude for our contributions to the community. We were also honored to receive a commending resolution from Delegate Holly Seibold and Delegate Karen Keys-Gamarra Karen Keys-Gamarra that honors our outstanding service to community.

Our lunch was also a wonderful way for our volunteers to spend time together and celebrate each other's accomplishments. Many of our volunteers have contributed 2, 3, or even 400 HOURS of service over the past year. Incredible!

We could not do this without them! Thank YOU!

05/12/2026

Here's a closer look at the commending resolution SCNOVA received for our dedication and service to the greater NOVA community.

Thank you, Delegate Holly Seibold! We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated volunteers who enrich the lives of older adults in our community in myriad ways, as friendly visitors and callers, by offering rides, or even handy help around the house. Our mission is made possible thanks to you!

If you are interested in learning more about our volunteer opportunities and donating your time and talents to SCNOVA, please take a look at our application here: https://scnova.pulse.ly/awoyj4myp5