In Pitt County, Caregivers got its start in 1989 when the Pitt County Interfaith Coalition was formed. This coalition, with representatives from local congregations, was dedicated to helping Pitt County older adults. In 1996, Caregivers merged with the Pitt County Council on Aging and expanded its focus in an attempt to reach a broader spectrum of older adults and community volunteers.
Caregivers is a volunteer program to the entire community.
Volunteers and older friends are matched in one on one relaionships because of the importance of the bond they form with one another. The Council on Aging provides a project Director and other support staff for volunteers. In this program, individual volunteers and groups of volunteers from community groups and organizations, churches and synagogues are brought together with older adults in meaningful and supportive relationships. The goal of Caregivers is to assist the elderly to live independently for as long as possible. No special talents are needed, just an interest in older people and a desire to make their lives better.