Volunteers

Monthly P&P Nursing Homes :
Culpepper Garden - Arlington
Sunrise at Bluemont Park - Arlington
Powhatan Nursing Home - Falls Church 

Historically, P&P has been all about painting nails.  However, in the last year, God has been opening our hearts and eyes to the broader spectrum of needs  we encounter in nursing homes and providing us with new ways to meet them.   In short - P&P isn't just about painting nails anymore.  We still provide simple manicures, but our focus is on developing relationships with the seniors we meet and sharing the gospel.

What Volunteers Do:
The easiest way to start a conversation is to introduce yourself and ask a resident where they are from.  As your conversation continues, listen for how you can best serve him/her and how you can most effectively share the gospel. Some residents have trouble hearing, so be ready to increase the volume of your speech or speak closer to their ears. Prepare a few "talking points" to get your conversation started. Residents often like to hear about your work and recent activities and many enjoy talking about their own families and jobs.

Men -
Men can participate in P&P events by encouraging and stimulating residents by playing board games and puzzles with residents, leading conversations and reading scripture.  They can also support our female volunteers by keeping residents entertained while they wait for their manicures and do the heavy work by escorting residents in wheelchairs to their various destinations.

Women -
You are not required to give manicures, but they are an easy platform on which to start a conversation.  Start by removing any old nail polish. Ask how she would like her nails filed. Some will want them shaped while others will just want them smoothed out. Because of liability concerns we are not allowed to use nail clippers. Once you've filed the nails, use lotion and gently massage the resident's hands. Next offer her several choices of polish colors. Paint the nails with two coats. If there is time, add a third clear coat to prevent chipping. Spray each nail with fast-dry spray (if it is available). Throw away the disposable nail file (residents may also keep their nail file if they wish).

What to Bring:
Bring your bible and the cell phone number of your Event Host (from your volunteer registration email) in case you get lost or need help getting into the building.  All of the supplies for the event will be provided. We are always happy to accept donations of manicure supplies.  You may also bring store-bought snacks to share.

Information for P&P leadership can be found here.