Heart of the Valley, a nonprofit organization based in Santa Clara, California, is seeking to raise $25,000 to expand its essential services for seniors in the West Santa Clara Valley. The funds will support a range of programs designed to enhance the independence and well-being of seniors, including transportation, home repairs, and companionship.
Among those benefiting from Heart of the Valley’s services is Marisa Carlini, a 64-year-old resident who has dedicated her life to caring for others. After enduring severe leg issues that culminated in the amputation of her left leg in late 2024, Carlini faced significant changes in her daily life. Simple tasks, like changing a light bulb, became daunting challenges, necessitating assistance from others.
Support for Independence
Fortunately, Carlini found support through Heart of the Valley, which has been assisting seniors since its incorporation in 1987. Originally founded by Austin Warburton, the organization evolved from a small volunteer operation to a comprehensive nonprofit serving over 250 seniors annually. Half of its clients reside in Santa Clara, with others in nearby cities such as San Jose, Sunnyvale, and Cupertino.
Heart of the Valley provides various services, including handyman assistance, yard work, and technological support. Carlini received critical home safety upgrades, including the installation of handrails and improved lighting, which have significantly contributed to her ability to live independently.
“Wayne (a Heart of the Valley volunteer) came over and installed seven grab bars in just two hours,” Carlini recalls.
The ongoing support from Heart of the Valley is vital for seniors like Carlini, allowing them to maintain their independence while ensuring their safety at home. Alma Soto, the executive director of Heart of the Valley, emphasizes the importance of continued financial support to sustain and grow their services. “Over the years, Heart of the Valley has grown from a small volunteer operation into a full-fledged nonprofit that serves hundreds of seniors each year,” Soto explained. “Wish Book funds will directly strengthen our capacity to reach more seniors and provide them with essential services that support independence, dignity, and well-being.”
Volunteers Make a Difference
The success of Heart of the Valley can be attributed in part to its dedicated volunteers. Among them is Lidia Donez, an 84-year-old who began volunteering in 2001 after retiring from a successful career at Hewlett-Packard. Initially, Donez helped seniors with grocery shopping and transportation to medical appointments, providing companionship and conversation to those in need.
“I would talk to them, make them feel like they were worth something,” Donez said, highlighting the emotional support that many seniors lack. Earlier this year, Donez herself required assistance after breaking her arm, and Heart of the Valley was there to provide walkers and other supports to aid her recovery.
“As an elderly, you don’t have the funds that you had when you were young,” Donez noted, expressing gratitude for the organization’s support. Now, she is back volunteering and leveraging her background in finance to help with bookkeeping and administrative tasks for Heart of the Valley.
“All of the jobs that she does are essentially three different positions,” Soto remarked, acknowledging Donez’s invaluable contributions.
Heart of the Valley’s mission extends beyond practical assistance; it emphasizes the importance of social connection. Many volunteers, like Donez, see their roles as providing companionship to seniors who might otherwise face isolation. The organization recognizes that for some seniors, a visit from a volunteer can be the first human interaction they have had in months.
“Sometimes a volunteer is the first person they’ve seen in months,” Soto added, underscoring the profound impact of their work.
The ongoing Wish Book campaign by the Mercury News aims to raise funds to support Heart of the Valley and similar organizations, ensuring that vital services remain accessible to those who need them most. Donations to Heart of the Valley will help enhance community outreach, improve technology, and grow the volunteer base.
For those wishing to contribute, donations can be made online at wishbook.mercurynews.com/donate, helping to sustain the important work that connects seniors with the support they deserve.
