There are endless stories in Morningside Heights and West Harlem that testify to the two-way caring connections that volunteers create.

Mr. W. at age 90, had been outside only in his wheelchair for over a year.  Volunteer John H. was able to get Mr. W. for a weekly walk over to the neighborhood Starbuck’s where they would enjoy a cup of coffee and much wanted conversation.  John found out that Mr. W. had an interest in Chinese chess, and so he was able to give the elder a set for his birthday.  The Morningside Village Co-ordinator asked around and found Brian, a Chinese college student who was also a LiLY volunteer and eager to have a Chinese chess partner.  And, so the match was made.  For over four years, Brian kept his Sunday date with Mr. Wu, even during the weeks that Mr. Wu was hospitalized and then in a rehab facility after a bad fall.  Brian said he learned more than a few good moves from the elder and looks forward to his Sunday games as much as Mr. W. does.