Terry McGovern has been a resident of the South Bay for over three decades. He is the founder and owner of A Peaceful Way Home Care in Rolling Hills Estates. Terry recently joined the Board of Directors for Palos Verdes Peninsula Village. He shares his story of how this has been a rewarding experience.
“Some of my friends and family members who are concerned for the care of their aging or ill parents were frustrated by the lack of options. I also personally experienced the concern of whether my father, who lived 2,000 miles away, was receiving the best care possible.
“I created an in-home care agency that gives people a peace of mind in knowing that their loved ones are being taken care of in a kind and compassionate way. I know the importance of having a caregiver who genuinely cares about the client and hire only those I’d entrust with my own loved ones.”
Becoming a Palos Verdes Peninsula Village Volunteer
“After starting A Peaceful Way Home Care, I met many older adults who wanted to stay connected with the community. I learned of Palos Verdes Peninsula Village and that it offers activities and services to help seniors do just that. I wanted to support The Village so my clients and other seniors living in Palos Verdes can enjoy living at home for as long as possible.
“I began as a volunteer providing transportation for members. It has been a gratifying experience. Not only am I able to help the member, I have been blessed with their friendship and experience. I became good friends with a member whom I drove to radiation treatments. He taught me how to appreciate life and be positive during adverse conditions.
“After seeing firsthand how helpful and valued the services of this great organization are, I wanted to contribute more to preventing the social isolation and loneliness that can lead to higher risks of both physical and mental deterioration. I was invited to join the Board of Directors and was elected into office in 2019.
“I have gotten to know many wonderful members in our Village community. I have learned so much from their life stories. I genuinely believe I have benefited more from volunteering than the members I help. I am still a volunteer driver and am continuing to meet more new friends.”
About Palos Verdes Peninsula Village
The vision of the Peninsula Village is a community where members continue to grow, engage with one another, and age with independence, dignity, and purpose. Through its volunteers and referrals, it provides support and services for its members who have chosen to live in the communities and homes they love as they get older.
Palos Verdes Peninsula Village is a non-profit organization that preserves and enhances the comfort, security, social engagement, and sense of community for older adults who want to continue independent living in the Palos Verdes Peninsula area. We accomplish this through educational outreach, social events and needed services provided by dedicated members and volunteers.
The Village provides activities and services for older adults to engage with others in our beautiful community. Here are just some examples:
Activities
• Book Clubs
• Men and Ladies Luncheons
• Happy Hours
• Writing Groups
• Holiday Parties
• Annual Upside of Aging
Services
• Transportation
• Household Maintenance
• Assistance with Technology
• Friendly Visits and Calls
• Grocery Shopping
The Village’s motto is “It is not enough to just add years to our lives but more importantly to add life to our years.”