Volunteer arrangers, deliverers and flower growers are needed for Island Volunteer Caregivers Flowers from the Heart program.

On Aug. 2, IVC hit the halfway mark of this year’s program. For over 20 years, the program has delivered hundreds of bouquets during an eight-week period each summer to people in need of cheer. This year IVC will deliver over 400 bouquets with deliveries Tuesdays through Thursdays through Sept. 1.

Longtime IVC volunteer and Flowers from the Heart co-team lead, Robin Nigash, complimented this year’s “over the top talented flower designers and the wonderful variety of flowers and greens being donated from resident’s farms and gardens.”

Flower arrangers have added special touches, like seashells, that haven’t gone unnoticed, she added. One recipient said, “I came home hot and tired after a challenging day and perked right up when I saw the flowers on my porch.”

This year, there has been more recipients who have lost loved ones or are significantly struggling. A recent recipient said, “I received the most beautiful bouquet of flowers on my anniversary, and I was so touched. My husband passed a few months ago, and I wasn’t expecting this at all.” It was serendipitous as the Flowers from the Heart team didn’t know it was her anniversary.

Beyond spreading cheer, the program ensures up-to-date information on registered IVC care receivers.

IVC welcomes volunteer arrangers and deliverers and is in particular need of gardeners interested in growing flowers for next season’s program. Anyone interested in volunteering can sign up as an IVC volunteer by visiting ivcbainbridge.org or calling the office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 206-842-4441.

Since 1996, IVC has worked to support life-enriching connections between caring people, seniors and people with long-term or temporary special needs to enable independence, dignity, health and well-being. IVC’s free services include transportation for medical appointments and errands, grocery and prescription pickup, and life-enrichment activities such as the Kreaky Knees walking group and field trips to the BI Museum of Art and Bainbridge Cinemas. IVC also offers two grief support programs. To learn more, visit ivcbainbridge.org.