HAMMOND, Ind. (CBS) – An organization in Hammond, Ind., called “We Care From The Heart,” is looking for volunteers to “adopt” seniors and disabled people, to help improve their quality of life.

WBBM Newsradio’s Mike Krauser reports the group has been looking for people who could provide rides to the doctor’s office or volunteer quality time.

Executive director Dianne Craft said the group is starting the adoption program, “because we’ve got so many that need to be adopted.”

The idea for the adoption program came from Edgar Martinez, who himself benefits from volunteers.

“They help me out to do my exercises, and, you know, I’m very happy,” he said.

LISTEN: WBBM Newsradio’s Mike Krauser reports

Martinez, a former Chicago teacher, is paralyzed from the waist down after he was shot eight years ago by a student he’d turned in for marijuana possession.

“I got four bullets, and one of them hit me right in my neck,” Martinez said.

The kid who shot him was never seen again.

Martinez’s wife of 10 years has been helping him, but she’s about to be deported.

“It’s terrible for me, because, you know, she’s always been with me,” he said.

Kraft said, “it’s not all about financial support, but what about quality time? That’s what he needs.”

She said there are a lot of seniors and disabled people who her organization helps, who could also use the help of others.