Our Volunteers

Elders in Action is powered by the wisdom and talent of our volunteers. People of all backgrounds and experience share their unique skills to improve the lives of others. Enjoy some of their stories on the "Our Volunteers" page.

Jack Bishop (L) Elders In Action Volunteer and Chair Ted Wheeler (R) Multnomah County Board of County Commissioners at the October 25, 2007 "Community Champions" Award Ceremony

Jack Bishop

Honored on October 18 as an "Everyday Hero" for his selflessness in coming to the aid of victims of elder financial and physical abuse and neglect.

Governor Ted Kulongoski declared October 18, 2007, "Everyday Heroes Working to End Elder Abuse Day." The proclamation states, "All residents of the State of Oregon deserve to live with dignity, respect and security." Eleven Oregonians, including Jack Bishop, were honored for their selflessness in coming to the aid of elderly victims of financial exploitation, physical abuse and neglect. Jack was recognized by Multnomah County Chair, Ted Wheeler, at a special "Community Champion" Award Ceremony an October 25, 2007 along with other awardees.

Jack has been an Elders in Action Personal Advocate volunteer since March 1999. He first became involved with helping individuals who had been victims of crime and elder abuse and later expanded his work to include assisting individuals with housing and healthcare programs.

Through his years of service, Jack has worked with over 150 older adults with a primary focus of working with victims of crime or abuse. He is always willing to take on additional cases and often provides "same day" response to the agency requests. He is willing to put aside his personal plans and assist the individual in need.

Why is he so committed to this work? In his words, "when you find a program that is well-run, well-organized, gives you the training you need, and helps people who really need the help, it's really worthwhile" and, he adds, "very satisfying."

Elders in Action is proud to have Jack as part of the program. His selfless volunteer spirit is helping to make our community safe and healthy for older adults and without him we couldn't do it! Thank you!

Other Volunteers' Stories