Program:
The Aging Care Friendly Match Program matches older adults experiencing isolation with volunteers who provide enriching social visits. Fighting against the risk of loneliness, the Program seeks to foster meaningful relationships between volunteers and older adults. It also aims to enhance the individuals’ connection to the community.
Goal of Position:
By providing a social element to the lives of clients, volunteers are making a tangible impact. Older adults experiencing loneliness and isolation need a connection to the community, and Friendly Match volunteers provide just that! Both clients and volunteers benefit greatly from the relationships that they develop through these warm interactions. This volunteer position is ideal for individuals who find it is easy to engage in conversations, enjoy the company of older adults, and who are comfortable with issues of older adulthood such as declining health and frailty.
Responsibilities:
- Visit client at least once per week for a minimum of one hour
- Report monthly hours and case notes to program coordinator
- Report any noticeable changes to client’s behavior, appearance, or demeanor to program coordinator
- Read and Respond to email messages from program coordinator
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Interview with program staff
- Submit the JFS Friendly Match questionnaire
- Attend an online volunteer orientation
- Complete HIPAA/Privacy and Security training
- Complete a background check
- Complete DMV check
- Have strong verbal skills
Time Commitment:
This position requires a minimum of a six-month commitment.
Visits should be approximately one-two hours per week
Scheduling of visiting hours is at the discretion of the volunteer and client(s)
