Help change lives and foster community caring!
For forty years, NQCA has been fostering and supporting one-to-one voluntary advocacy relationships in the North Quabbin region.
Vicki has been Lilian’s advocate for more than 10 years. Lilian is an avid Elvis Presley fan and she frequently attends Elvis impersonator concerts with Vicki. They often visit Yankee Candle and the Whately Truck Stop. Vicki and Lilian also take extended trips around New England. They have built relationships in the community where people recognize them and welcome their friendship, and acquaintances have formed. Lilian has been welcomed into Vicki’s family. She has attended birthday parties, cookouts, and holidays. Vicki feels that Lilian has touched her heart and she feels so blessed to have Lilian in her life. They share a special bond. She feels that Lilian can tell when she is down and out, Lilian will purposely engage her into a positive spirit.
North Quabbin Citizen Advocacy (NQCA) is the only non-profit organization in the area that recruits, matches, and supports more than 150 local people in voluntary advocacy relationships. NQCA’s mission is to develop and support relationships for people in need of guidance, companionship, and/or advocacy. The friend/advocate helps out free of charge because they care about the person, not because it’s their job.
People who live with intellectual disabilities and/or mental health disorders have historically been devalued in society. They are typically more isolated, have fewer resources, more often live in poverty, and have smaller social networks and informal support. They also often struggle to meet basic needs of safe housing, access to food and medical care. Social isolation, which has increased since the COVID pandemic, correlates with higher mortality rates and poor health.
Your contribution is vital to continue NQCA’s important work. The world has changed radically in the past few years, which has intensified the vulnerability of people with disabilities and mental health challenges. NQCA encourages the advocates to be there for the long-term, to offer practical help and to advocate on behalf of their friend. These relationships are meaningful for both partners. NQCA’s work simply would not be possible without the generous donations of friends and neighbors like you. To sustain the program, the annual campaign must raise $20,000. Will you please donate today?
Your support makes a profound difference. One relationship at a time, NQCA fosters a genuinely caring community where all are welcomed, included, and valued. NQCA continues to make matches and support these relationships. Our commitment to this work is strong and our capacity to do good work is strengthened by your contribution.
Thank you!