Visiting Volunteers

Visiting Volunteers make regular visits to older adults using LBFE In-Home Services who are physically and emotionally isolated. Program staff and volunteers help reconnect these older adults to people and resources in their community, increase their independence, and create friendships. Volunteers are matched with participants according to interests, personality and geography.

LBFE asks that its Visiting Volunteers spend six hours per month with the person they are supporting, for a period of one year. Visiting Volunteers are supervised by an LBFE Program Coordinator. If interested, contact Carolyn Swenson at cswenson@littlebrothersmn.org or 612.746.0753.

Visiting Volunteer Job Description:

Benefits

• Gain gratification of knowing that the isolation of an older adult has been relieved
• Develop new friendships and share new experiences
• Gain experience in the field of aging
• Develop and enhance skills and abilities
• Attend LBFE celebrations, activities, and workshops
• Attend on-going training and workshops
• Obtain support and technical assistance

Duties and Responsibilities

• Visit your older friend for 6 hours a month for the time period of 1 year
• Act as liaison between the person you spend time with and LBFE by reporting any concerns about health and well-being to the Program Coordinator
• Follow the policies of the organization
• Respect the confidences of the recipients of LBFE’s services and the LBFE organization
• Demonstrate commitment, reliability, and responsibility
• Provide feedback, suggestions, and recommendations to appropriate staff concerning the effectiveness of LBFE’s programs
• Inform LBFE staff or Volunteer Services Manager if you are unable to continue volunteer duties

Qualifications

• Desire to enhance the well-being of older adults
  
• Sensitivity to the needs of lonely and isolated older adults facing difficult life experiences
• Effective communication skills
• Ability to make commitments and follow through
• Flexibility and an open mind to diversity

Time Commitment

• 3 hour orientation and basic training
• 6 hours per month for the time period of 1 year