SAGE Eldercare
290 Broad Street
Summit, NJ 07901
phone: 908-598-5514 Fax: 908-598-5539
www.sageeldercare.org

The Story of SAGE Eldercare

Incorporated in 1954, SAGE Eldercare is a private, nonprofit organization concerned with the health, happiness and general welfare of older citizens and their families. SAGE Eldercare grew out of a two-year study initiated by the social studies department of the Summit College Club. A local council on aging emerged from the Club’s commitment to educate itself and members of the community on issues affecting the elderly. Council representation came from civic groups, churches, social agencies and interested residents. These community efforts resulted in the formation of SAGE, the Summit Association for Gerontological Endeavor.

SAGE Eldercare is distinguished among eldercare agencies by being a pioneer in providing community-based care for the elderly. While SAGE is the oldest agency of its kind in New Jersey, it is also one of the few non-profit eldercare agencies in the United States that offers a comprehensive array of services under one roof.

Beginning in 1954, SAGE provided HomeCare services to local seniors. SAGE later expanded its services, launching a Meals-on-Wheels program in 1966 and in 1975 an adult day care program known as Spend-A-Day Adult Day Health Center—both among the first to be offered in New Jersey.

Overall Purpose of Organization

SAGE Eldercare supports the independence, well-being and quality of life of older adults, their families and caregivers by offering a broad range of client-centered health, social and support services.

This Organization Will Benefit

SAGE Eldercare provides services, as well as volunteer and employment opportunities, for everyone in the local community—from seniors to their families and/or caregivers.

Comprehensive Description of Organization

SAGE Eldercare is a nonprofit located in Summit, New Jersey, founded in 1954 with the mission of keeping older adults in their homes. We offer a variety of programs including: Adult Day Health Care, Bill Paying, Educational Programs, HomeCare, Meals on Wheels, Shopping Services, and free Information and Referral. We distinguish ourselves through our compassionate and caring staff, who go the extra mile for their clients and their family members. We like to say that our family will take care of yours.

Donations

As a non-profit organization, SAGE Eldercare relies heavily on grants and contributions to support our senior/caregiver services including HomeCare, Spend-A-Day, Meals on Wheels, Shopping Service, Bill Paying, Educational Programs and InfoCare. Please send all donations to:

Development Office
290 Broad Street
Summit, NJ 07901

Volunteers

Many of our programs are in need of volunteers:

Chore Service: This service requires that volunteers have the knowledge and ability to perform small chores such as:
• Changing light bulbs
• Replacing batteries in smoke detectors
• Removing or installing window air conditioners
• Installing home safety features such as grab bars, wheelchair ramps, and railings on interior and/or exterior stairs
• Repairing or replacing broken steps and damaged flooring
• Installation of smoke detectors

Bill Paying: This service assists seniors who are able to make responsible decisions about their financial affairs but who may be physically impaired, have a debilitating illness, or have recently lost their spouse who was sole manager of the household finances. Volunteers are needed to:
• Sort mail
• Review bills to determine proper payment
• Prepare checks for client signatures
• Reconcile checking accounts
• Budget monthly income and expenses
• Set up files and organize paperwork
• Organize financial records for use in tax preparation or estate planning
• Provide instruction for managing finances independently and efficiently

Shopping Service: This service helps senior clients with shopping and errands. Volunteers are needed for:
• Grocery shopping for the homebound or those recuperating from surgery or illness
• Errands to the post office, library, city hall, pet store, etc.
• Laundry and dry cleaning pick up and delivery
• Check-in/safety visits

Meals on Wheels: Volunteers are needed to deliver meals between Monday and Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Scheduling is flexible, according to volunteer availability.

Spend-A-Day: Volunteers are welcomed to visit and entertain Spend-A-Day adult clients in games, music, or story hour from Monday – Friday between 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Notice must be made in advance.

Development Office: Volunteers are needed for secretarial work, filing and making copies. Some computer knowledge is required.

Type: All our volunteer opportunities for SAGE Eldercare services/programs are ongoing. For information on upcoming projects or special events that need volunteer service please call Marianne Kranz, Director of Volunteers, at 908-598-5514.

Time Commitment: Varies. Very flexible

Address: 290 Broad Street
Summit, NJ 07901

Contact: Marianne Kranz, Director of Volunteers. E-mail address: mkranz@sageeldercare.org

Phone/Fax: phone: 908-598-5514 Fax: 908-598-5539