As winter settles in across Loveland, the city’s Snow Squad Program has announced that its waitlist for residents needing snow shoveling assistance is currently closed. The program has seen a significant increase in demand, with around 15 residents on the waitlist unable to be matched with volunteers due to a shortage of participants. Brianne Totman, the newly appointed volunteer coordinator, emphasized the pressing need for more volunteers to meet the community’s needs.
Totman, who succeeded longtime volunteer coordinator Sarah Wahrer, explained that the program typically receives over 130 applicants each year. Many of these applicants are individuals who are physically unable to shovel snow themselves and cannot afford to hire a professional service. “It’s just not going to be helpful to have people sit on a waitlist when we don’t have the volunteers to do it,” Totman stated. She added that if more volunteers step forward, the waitlist could be reopened.
Residents participating in the Snow Squad Program are responsible for clearing sidewalks within 24 hours of a snowfall. The program serves a vital role in ensuring that vulnerable community members, particularly the elderly and disabled, have safe access to and from their homes. Currently, the program has 56 volunteers matched with 117 homes, with many volunteers taking on multiple households, often three to four at a time.
Volunteers like Elizabeth Falkenberg have shared their experiences, noting that the commitment is manageable and rewarding. “Each season I have been matched with residents who live within a mile of my home, so I’m never traveling far to help,” Falkenberg explained. She highlighted the importance of increasing awareness about the program, stating, “We need more people to know about it. It really helps people out.”
Community members interested in volunteering can complete an application online. A background check is required as part of the application process. The application can be accessed at the following link: https://www.cervistech.com/acts/console.php?console_id=0027&console_type=sp.
As Loveland continues to experience snowfall, the need for volunteers grows more urgent. The Snow Squad Program not only provides an essential service to residents but also fosters a sense of community and support among neighbors. Without additional volunteers, the program risks leaving some residents without the help they need during the winter months.
