Volunteer FAQs

Volunteer visitors spend time with their seniors, enjoying shared activities that they decide together. Some seniors enjoy going outside for a walk, while others prefer staying home sharing conversation, watching TV or a movie, or playing cards. When we match a volunteer with a senior, we consider each person's preferences and interests. When we interview a volunteer, we discuss their interests, any special needs they may have, and what they are comfortable or not comfortable with. Our volunteers are here for companionship and emotional support, not to do chores in the senior's home. Volunteering should be a rewarding experience, not a tedious one.

We do not ask for a specific commitment. Our volunteer coordinator will discuss your availability and involvement when he interviews you.

Our volunteers range in age from 15 to 79. They come from all backgrounds and walks of life.

Many of our volunteers work at full-time jobs, and enjoy visiting a senior on their lunch hour, after work or on a weekend. All it takes is an hour or two a week to make a big difference in someone's life, as well as your own. The most important thing is the quality, not the quantity, of the time you spend together. We also have one-time and special project volunteer opportunities.

When you become a volunteer, you will receive training about how to handle any difficulties that may arise. If you encounter an emergency, call 911. If the emergency occurs during normal business hours, call the VN office after you call 911.

There are many ways you can volunteer to impact our seniors. You can become an "on-call" volunteer visitor who fills in if a senior's regular volunteer visitor is on vacation or not available. You can be "on call" to assist with an errand, or to escort a senior. If you have a special skill, such as graphics or writing, we can always use your help. We also need help with special projects, such as volunteer "elves" to deliver holiday gifts, or to help in the office, or with fundraising activities.