April Is National Volunteer Month

Special to Seniors Today

National Volunteer month in the United States takes place in the month of April. This month is dedicated to honoring all of the volunteers in our communities as well as encouraging volunteerism.

The Department of Elder Affairs uses innovative and cost-effective methods to serve one of the state’s largest populations. With the help of more than 40,000 volunteers, the Department and the aging services network are able to foster an en-vironment where seniors can thrive and grow. Through its dedicated corps of volunteers, the Department can be a perfect fit for anyone with a passion for advocacy and helping seniors.

DOEA Volunteer Programs Americorps—A network of national service programs that engage members and community volunteers in intensive service to meet critical needs in education, public health, and the environment.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program—Utilizes volunteers to help improve the lives of Floridians by advocating on behalf of those who live in long-term care settings such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and adult family care homes.

Respite for Elders Living in Everyday Families—RELIEF—Offers respite services to caregivers of frail elders and those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia.

Senior Companion Program—Volunteers provide services to elders at risk of institutionalization due to chronic illness, disability, or isolation. Services include such things as transportation to medical appointments, shopping assistance, meal preparation, companionship and advocacy, as well as respite for caregivers.
Guardian Ad Litem Program is a network of professional staff and community advocates, partnering to provide a strong voice in court and positive systemic change on behalf of Florida’s abused and neglected children. For info, call 866.341.1425 or www.GuardianadLitem.org

Senior Vs. Crime is a non-profit organization of senior volunteers working to right civil wrongs for Florida seniors and to educate seniors about scam, consumer fraud, con games, and other criminal acts. Seniors vs. Crime is a special project of the Florida Attorney General. The Seniors vs. Crime Project is actively seeking volunteers to become Senior Sleuths. For info, call 800.203.3099 or www.seniorsvscrime.com

Volunteer Florida—The Commission grants funds to Florida AmeriCorps and National Service programs; encourages volunteerism for everyone from youth to seniors to people with disabilities; promotes volunteerism for disaster preparedness and response; and helps to strengthen and expand Volunteer Centers in Florida. For info, visit www.volunteerflorida.org