In a world that often moves too fast, there’s something quietly powerful happening across Anne Arundel County – neighbors showing up for one another, one hour at a time.
For more than three decades, Partners In Care Maryland, Inc. has built its mission around a simple but meaningful idea: Neighbors Helping Neighbors. In 2025, that mission reached a remarkable milestone. More than 2,600 members collectively donated over 1 million volunteer hours, including 709,000 hours right here in Anne Arundel County.
Behind that number are thousands of everyday acts of kindness – rides to doctor’s appointments, help with grocery orders, small home repairs, and perhaps most importantly, companionship.
“Volunteers drive everything we do,” said Derek Milley, Director of Communications. “We couldn’t support our older adults without them – and with our network growing, we expect another increase in more older adults needing our services this year.”
The organization’s growth reflects a broader need. As the population of older adults continues to rise, so does the demand for services that allow people to age independently while staying connected to their communities. Partners In Care has responded with a model that’s as practical as it is personal.
At the heart of PIC is its time-banking and service-exchange system, which allows members to give help and receive it when they need it. Volunteers can donate hours to others, exchange services directly, or bank their time for future use.
“If a member needs a ride, help ordering groceries online, or small home repair, they can use their banked hours or exchange service-for-service with another member,” explained Lauren Lucabaugh, Director of Member Care.
It’s a system built not just on generosity, but on dignity – ensuring that everyone has something to contribute and something to receive.
For volunteers like Kathy Butler, the impact is deeply personal.
“Partners In Care reaching 1 million volunteer hours truly shows the hearts of the volunteers who have given so much of themselves and continue to give more!” said Kathy Butler, volunteer.
Community leaders have taken notice as well. Delegate Stuart Schmidt points to the organization as a model for how grassroots service can create lasting change.
“Every hour that a volunteer gives to another makes a significant, real-life difference. Partners In Care shows the true power of Neighbors Helping Neighbors. I fully support the mission and the method of service,” said Delegate Stuart Schmidt.
But the work goes far beyond transportation and household help. Through programs and social opportunities, PIC also fosters connection – something that can be just as vital as any service.
“PIC volunteers provide not only essential services like transportation and online grocery shopping but also opportunities for social engagement like social learnings on Wills & Estates, Downsizing, Advance Medical Care Planning and more. Amy Van Orden, Director of Operations, said, “From making birthday cards to a friendly visit, every service strengthens our community.”
As Partners In Care celebrates this milestone, the focus is already on what comes next. With demand continuing to grow, the organization is actively seeking new volunteers to help power its next million hours.
Because at its core, this isn’t just about numbers. It’s about people – neighbors looking out for one another, building a stronger, more connected Pasadena-area community one small act of service at a time.
