This vitally important program is part of AmeriCorps Seniors, a national service government agency. Spark the Change powers two AmeriCorps Seniors Programs: The Senior Companion Program and RSVP. The Senior Companion Program engages individuals 55 years and better to realize the independence of older adults in their home and as a team, continue to be vibrant, contributing members of our communities. Volunteers provide services independently or at a designated Volunteer Station location. You can apply online or download and print a paper application and email to Laura at [email protected]. We serve in Adams, Arapahoe, Denver, Douglas, Huerfano, Jefferson, Las Animas and Pueblo counties.
This program is for volunteers who are:
- 55 years or better
- Willing to volunteer 5-40 hours a week for at least one year
- Pass a State and FBI fingerprinting check as well as the National Sex Offender check
- Interviewed and attend pre-service orientation and training
- Living on a limited income to receive a modest, nontaxable $4.00/hr stipend
- Sufficiently healthy and active to provide reliable assistance to other older adults
- Licensed and insured to drive a car or able to use public transportation
- Committed to the program's goals, professional ethics and comfortable accepting supervision
- Creative, social, adaptable and compassionate about improving the lives of others
Companion Volunteers support other older adults in many ways including, but not limited to:
- Offering companionship and friendship
- Providing transportation to medical appointments or to social events
- Helping with grocery shopping and other shopping
- Assisting with simple chores like putting away groceries, preparing meals, washing dishes
- Reading or helping with mail, email, newspapers or magazines
- Alerting family members or caregivers to potential health issues or home life situations
Benefits to becoming a Companion Volunteer include, but are not limited to:
- Opportunity to use life experiences, time and talent to enhance the lives of others
- Chance to learn new and exciting things about other people and the community in which they live
- If income eligible, a modest non-taxable stipend of $4.00/hour of service
- Paid personal time off during year of service
- Assistance with meals and travel reimbursement
- Accident and liability insurance while in service
- Paid pre-service and monthly training sessions
- Paid annual physical
- Community recognition for the invaluable service they provide
Questions? Contact Us!:
Seth Hyman | [email protected] | (303) 623-1541
Laura Kinder | [email protected] | (303) 500-4159
Seth Hyman | [email protected] | (303) 623-1541
Laura Kinder | [email protected] | (303) 500-4159
