What went well in 2020:

Most volunteer and staff pairs connected weekly for phone visits when COVID restrictions prevented in-person gatherings.

Launched early in COVID, our printed member newsletter was a 'very' or 'extremely' important way to stay socially connected for over 40% of members. While COVID was the impetus of the newsletter, it's something we'll undoubtedly continue post-COVID. We've found the newsletter can be an essential connection point for members who may be unable to leave their room due to ongoing health issues.

What remains challenging: 

Members still frequently reported enduring barriers in accessing technology despite the roll-out of our technology loaner program and tech assistance during COVID.

While much of our country has embraced online technology like Zoom during COVID, our members continue to rely on known technologies such as postal mail and the telephone

What are the most critical connection activities during COVID?

Over 40% of members said phone calls, written communication, and the member newsletter were the most important ways they stayed socially connected during the pandemic.

What are the most essential activities in non-COVID times?

1. Holiday gift*
2. Weekly visits
3. 1-on-1 staff support
4. Holiday party*
5. Picnic at Mt. Hood (Wildwood)
6. Community Room

*Let’s dig a little deeper!

In our winter survey, over 60% of members indicated the six activities above were “very important” or “extremely important.” Some of the items may be surprising at first glance. Yet, peel back the layers, and you’ll find connection at the core. For example, the holiday gift isn’t just about the item – it’s reassurance that someone cares about you during the holidays.

Should we stop hosting the least popular activities?

Possibly, but it’s not straightforward. Even the lowest-rated activity (i.e., talent show) was “very important” or “extremely important” to 28% of respondents. We’ll be looking for creative ways to continue meeting member needs while carefully balancing member utilization numbers and finite staff time.

Some activities might not be as popular overall, but they are vital to a significant number of people

What role do activities play in connection?

In open-ended responses, members noted that activities were "important ways to connect socially" and "helped to build friendships." One member said they "felt less invisible during activities." Others wrote about meeting and interacting with “a lot of different kinds of people,” friendships, camaraderie, being accepted “for who I am,” and one-on-one support with staff.

Member suggestions to increase connection

• Increase inclusivity with adaptations for members with visual or hearing impairments.
• Supporting shy members to join groups.
• Include people who may feel “alone in a crowd” when in the Community Room.
• Increase attendance in activities and involvement in general.

What new activities do members want?

Since many natural areas are not easily accessible with public transit, many members share that Wildwood (our annual picnic at Mt. Hood) is one of the few times they can get out of the city and into nature. Not surprisingly, the top two most desired activities were more local trips and tours and local picnics – with over 60% of members expressing interest.

Members want a more active role

We believe every person is irreplicable and has something remarkable to share with others. It's clear from our winter survey that members are eager to share their skills and talents with our community. Member leadership is now officially a strategic goal, but we're just starting on the journey - a journey that's bound to be full of hidden boulders and unexpected joy. So, hang on tight!

• 1/3 of members want to assist in planning activities or attend training to help create a welcoming and safe space at Maybelle
• 27% of members expressed interest in activities that explore anti-racism
• Others volunteered skills such as guiding art walks, knitting, technology, spiritual support, Braille, baseball, leading a book club, and activism.

Thank you for supporting Maybelle Center and investing in members!

Sixty-eight of 252 members responded to the survey between December 2020 and March 2021.