NHCO Helps Sharpsburg Woman Pursue Dreams Despite Medical Set-Backs

Juliah is an upbeat entrepreneur and Sharpsburg icon, with her likeness adorning a mural in the town's center. She teaches cooking at libraries, and helps with fundraisers at the local community center. She recently organized a drive to raise money to buy flowers for local teachers, and she sometimes lunches with the mayor to exchange ideas to improve Sharpsburg's future.

That might seem like a lot for someone who is 72 years old, but not for Juliah; she's also opening a deli and writing a book featuring positive life-enriching quotes.

"It ain't the age, it's the stage," she added.

In 2020, a stroke nearly sidelined the outgoing community leader. Her vision was permanently impaired, leaving her unable to drive. That's when a friend told her about NHCO's Free Rides for Seniors Shuttle. The eight-passenger van and its volunteers provide free transportation to those 60 and older along the Route 28 corridor.

"I think it should say Free Rides for Seniors - More Than a Ride, because it is," Juliah giggled. "It's like community, like family, and they take you where you need to go...they share things."

She's enjoying safe transportation to community events, cooking classes, friend's homes, grocery stores, and more. Most importantly, Juliah remains a very active member of the Sharpsburg community.

Through her rides, she learned about NHCO's Pathway's Program - an individualized approach that helps clients reach their goals. She regularly meets with Carmen, NHCO's Millvale Service Coordinator, who guides her through the program.

“Carmen's a babydoll. She always makes herself available," Juliah energetically added. "Carmen is always very, very calming to me and lets me know everything is going to work out in the end. Don't worry about it. And I need that."

Juliah's goodwill, determination, and reliance - peppered with NHCO's assistance - creates a better community and a better Juliah.

"You just don't know the level, THE LEVEL, of happiness and helpfulness you are doing," she added.