GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) - A Grand Rapids man is giving back to the community that helped him survive a battle with cancer five years ago.

Dave VanderLinde and his wife, Judy opened a franchise of Seniors Helping Seniors in Kent County on September 1st. The national organization is the only one of its kind that matches seniors who need in-home care services with seniors who provide them. VanderLinde says the franchise helps senior volunteers feel useful again, while making a little money and helping other seniors retain their independence.

"This isn't all about us," says VanderLinde. "Obviously we don't need to work, but we do. We have the opportunity to serve the people of Grand Rapids, and perhaps make this a better place to live and that's why we want to do it."

The VanderLinde's franchise is the fourth one in the state and the first one for West Michigan. For a link to more information, click here.