Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to live on Beacon Hill to join?
What are the ages of BHV members?
What is included in my membership fee?
What if I need something that you haven't mentioned?
Can I buy my parents a membership?
Why should I join if I am healthy?
Can the Village help in an emergency?
Do I have to live on Beacon Hill to join?
No! Our neighborhoods include most of central Boston. See our coverage map.
What are the ages of BHV members?
Members can be as young as 50, and our oldest member is approaching 100. The statistics show a bell curve, with most members in their early 70s. The median age is going down as more baby boomers join.
What is included in my membership fee?
Members enjoy access to a great wealth of information and advice simply by calling the Village office. Activities open without any cost include parties, walking groups, fitness programs, and "Conversations with," a series of small group talks with Boston notables. The office arranges some free services, such as an escort home when required by a doctor, and others for a nominal fee, such as grocery shopping. Volunteers provide some services at no cost, and many other providers offer members a significant discount.
What if I need something that you haven't mentioned?
Just call Beacon Hill Village. We will work with you to find an answer to your question or need. From years of experience, we have a long and varied list of volunteers and providers. We are skilled at finding new sources. Members often say, "I didn't know the Village could do that!"
Can I buy my parents a membership?
Yes, several families have bought memberships as a gift for a family member. In such cases, we urge the prospective member to talk with the Village's outreach coordinator. Families are often surprised and reassured to learn how much the Village can make city living easier and to help people stay in their homes and neighborhoods.
Why should I join if I am healthy?
Our members join for a variety of reasons. Some enjoy the programs and activities, the convenience of going to one source for all kinds of answers and services, the discounts, the opportunity to connect with others in our neighborhood. Some members join because they need help at home now, and others want the peace of mind knowing they will be prepared for the future.
Can the Village help in an emergency?
The Village can often address a need on short notice. In a medical emergency, the first call should still be to 911 or your physician. The Village can, however, help with changed circumstances in many ways. We have, for example, helped to arrange home caregivers, case managers, and patient advocates. We can find volunteers to pick up prescriptions, run an errand, or simply drop in to chat.