Lois Heaton-Camacho, a personal services volunteer at the San Francisco Village, is making a difference in the life of member Margaret Ralston. Lois meets with Maggie a few times a month for wine, mixed nuts and conversation.

"We talk and visit,” says Ralston.  "She helps me appreciate the beauty of the city."

Heaton-Camacho, who has been volunteering at the Village only a few months but has many years’ experience working with seniors, has already left an impression on Maggie. “She’s helped me get a new appreciation for all the good work volunteers do.”

In addition to volunteering at the Village, Lois also works as a client services coordinator at the Hearing and Speech Center of Northern California and has volunteered as an English as a second language tutor at City College. She has also acted as an informal caretaker of her landlady.

In December, Lois proved willing to expand her volunteer activity by helping at the Village holiday party, where she escorted members who needed physical assistance into the building. She also acted as usher to those more able-bodied members, sending them to designated areas of the event with enthusiasm, grace and compassion.

Lois has demonstrated that she genuinely cares for the members she works with and does not hesitate to call the office if she has any concerns for a members well-being. 

In 2012 she and Margaret will add exercise to their regimen. They plan to take short walks near Maggie’s home in San Francisco.

"She's helped me realize the importance of friendship,” Ralston said.