Vermont’s growing senior population requires an expanding array of services, many of which are delivered by volunteers. This summer, we are in acute need of additional helpers to meet these needs. While many of these volunteer positions can be carried out in only a few hours per week or month, they are critical for the seniors who rely on them. Here are some of the most pressing needs:
The Brattleboro Meals Center is seeking more drivers for its Meals on Wheels program. The Brattleboro Meals Center is the largest in our area, delivering an average of 3,800 meals per month to 190 people on a daily basis. Volunteers are needed for every day except for Friday. Volunteers usually come in between 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. and make deliveries for 60 to 90 minutes. Some volunteers drive one day per week, and some do more. If you are interested, please contact Cynthia at 802-257-1236
Would you like to help seniors keep and care for their pets? The Foxy Fund has a role for you! Senior Solutions’ Foxy Fund provides pet food to seniors who can not easily get out for shopping. We currently are helping to feed more than 50 furry companions, and can take no more clients without some extra hands. All this involves is breaking down bulk food bags into two pound packages, and delivering them to a single distribution location, once a month! This can be accomplished in only two to four hours each month. If you can help us out, please contact Thom at 802-797-4532.
Office Volunteers! Our Front office could use a volunteer or small group of volunteers who can provide 10-30 hours weekly to assist our staff with the following duties during normal business hours, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday:
- Greet visitors, answer phone calls, take messages, and direct calls
- Complete intake forms for clients who are seeking assistance
- Assist in the coordination of events (holiday parties, retirement celebrations, birthdays, staff luncheons/retreats)
- Request materials such as brochures and flyers from VT agencies/organizations
- Address, assemble, and apply postage to outgoing mail
- Print documents, make copies, and collate/staple/assemble documents into packets
- Other tasks as needed or necessary and the opportunity to work on special nonrecurring and ongoing projects
Each volunteer will undergo an orientation with our human resources, volunteer coordination, and front office staff. In addition to this, each volunteer will complete an acknowledgement of confidentiality as well as a HIPAA training and cyber security training. We will work with volunteers to coordinate a schedule that works for all involved. However, we do ask that volunteers stick to their schedule and avoid making frequent or last-minute changes to the schedule.
Public Health AmeriCorps Volunteers
On September 1, Senior Solutions will be kicking off a new and exciting project. We will be establishing a strong squad of AmeriCorps volunteers of all ages here in southeastern Vermont. These volunteers will receive training & support, and will enhance their career opportunities. Our AmeriCorp members will also receive a generous tax-free stipend as they work with families of individuals who suffer from debilitating conditions such as Parkinson’s and dementia. By giving a few hours each week, individuals can make a huge difference in the lives of family caregivers and their loved ones.
We are building a strong team so contact Victoria at the email address below now for more information and to let us know that you want to be part of this first wave of important AmeriCorps Members. You will be bringing relief to the many Vermonters who give so much to their loved ones. Valleman@seniorsolutionsvt.org
For more information on how to volunteer to help with additional Senior Solutions programs click here for our volunteers page.
