Contact Information

If you would like additional information about the Dolphin program, please email Ms. Jo Parker, Administrator, Dolphins of Delaware Valley.

Why the Dolphin?

The creature whose picture appears above is the dolphin, the official animal of the Dolphins of Delaware Valley, a group of volunteers who provide a visiting ministry with the elderly in nursing or retirement homes. In ancient times, the dolphin was observed to have characteristics of swiftness, diligence and love. Modern scientists have studied the remarkable intelligence of these animals, and have noted that they appear to have a sophisticated system of communication and cooperative action.

The dolphin appeared in Greek and Roman mythology, and since the second century A.D. it has been a Christian symbol. The Dolphin is portrayed in Christian art more frequently than any other fish - although it is really a mammal. Generally, it has come to symbolize resurrection and salvation and was often shown bearing the souls of the dead across the waters to the world beyond.

Depicted with an anchor or a boat, it symbolized the Christian soul, or the church, being guided toward salvation by Christ. It frequently represented the whale in the story of Jonah. This, in turn, led to the use of the dolphin as the symbol of the Resurrection and also, more rarely, as a symbol of Christ. (adapted from Signs and Symbols in Christian Art, by George Ferguson)

• Episcopal Community Services
• The Church Foundation
• Spiritual Resources Committee
• Servant Year Program
• Seamen's Church Institute
• Episcopal Church Women
• Church Training and Deaconess
• Community of Spice
• Cursillo
• Dolphins

Dolphins of Delaware Valley

St. Christopher's Church
226 Righters Mill Road, Gladwyne, PA 19035
Phone (610) 649-5594
Fax (610) 649-5643

www.dolphinsofdelawarevalley.org

What is the Dolphin Program?

It is a special one-to-one lay ministry with residents in nursing homes and retirement communities - a ministry in which a caring friendship allays loneliness. Dolphin volunteers are trained, supervised and responsible to their sponsoring group.

What is a Dolphin?

A Dolphin is a volunteer who becomes a friend to one resident in a nursing home or retirement community. The name is derived from the sea mammal whose cheerful personality and friendliness toward humans characterizes the spirit of our program.

What are the requirements for becoming a Dolphin?

The most important requirement is the desire to befriend a person who will benefit from your companionship. The second is a sense of commitment - being a reliable visitor. Otherwise, a Dolphin may be young or old, male or female, and of any faith. Of course, a cheerful disposition is an asset in carrying out this ministry.

Who sponsors the Dolphins?

The program was founded in 1978 in Philadelphia's western suburbs. The Merion Deanery, comprised of 12 Episcopal churches, sponsored the original Dolphin program, which trained and supervised the first volunteers. Since then, the Dolphin ministry has expanded to many parts of the country. Our founding program has helped establish many affiliated programs. Affiliates have their own sponsors, including churches, interfaith councils, nursing homes, and retirement communities and are responsible for recruiting and training Dolphins and managing their own programs.

Is there professional supervision?

Yes. And its importance cannot be overstated. The founding program oversees more than 70 of its own volunteers, training them, counseling them, matching them with their future friends, and recruiting replacements as needed. The small staff maintains working relationships with nursing homes and retirement communities, monitors the progress of visitors ministries, and keeps informed of residents in need of a Dolphin.

How is a Dolphin trained?

Dolphins are encouraged to attend Dolphin schools that provide information about the physical, emotional and social impacts of aging along with information on the particular needs of the elderly in nursing homes and retirements communities. Dolphins have the opportunity to share their own experiences with the group.

How is the Dolphin Program financed?

While the Dolphins of Delaware Valley is essentially a volunteer organization, it does require professional administration as well as office supplies and equipment. Initial funding came in large part from Venture in Mission and foundations, but as the program has grown, so has dependence on contributions from individuals and church organizations. Donations may be given directly, or through the United Way Donor Option Program number 03907.

All contributions are tax deductible.