By Nancy Price
The Social of Greenwood is slowly reopening its doors for the first time since March. Last month, the nonprofit resumed its food pantry services on Tuesdays from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and Thursdays from noon-2 p.m. via drive-through.
Volunteers are screened for COVID before performing any duties and are required to wear masks. Nonperishable items, including macaroni and cheese, peanut butter and canned goods are packaged in boxes and delivered inside a recipient’s car trunk. “We are so lucky to have a large group of volunteers,” said Andrea Sutherland, executive director for The Social of Greenwood. “Folks are tired of being home and enjoy any opportunity to serve their community. “They love the interaction. Just having that interaction, I think, helps both parties.”
The Social will also restart Rock Steady Boxing classes on Oct. 26, with a few updated changes. “We have had to reduce the amount of classes,” Sutherland explained. There will be one class a day so rooms can be adequately disinfected before beginning the next class. Participants must register beforehand, wear masks and maintain a distance of more than 6 feet to make sure they have adequate space.
“I’m excited to have them back,” Sutherland said. “They haven’t seen each other. To see their peers is going to be great for them.”
Sutherland said the staff is hoping to start back with regular programming in the spring of 2021. “Right now we’re heavily relying on donations just to keep everything running,” she said. “Being a nonprofit in this environment is difficult.”
She also encourages people to donate to nonprofits that speak to their heart. “It’s a whole new world for everyone,” she said.
The Social invites anyone in need of pantry items to stop by. “It’s open to everyone,” Sutherland said. “We service anyone. Volunteers will help guide the cars.”
The Social of Greenwood is a 501(c) (3) organization. Its mission is to provide programs, activities and services designed to enhance the quality of life of those 50 and beyond in its community. Membership benefits include trips, clubs, exercise classes, a health and wellness gym, cards and games, educational seminars, a daily congregate lunch, Rock Steady Boxing, a food pantry and volunteer opportunities.
The Social is at 550 Polk St., Greenwood, IN 46143. For more information on The Social and the services it provides, please call (317) 882-4810 or go to thesocialofgreenwood.org.
