PROGRAM PURPOSE:

To reduce social isolation by regularly connecting seniors to volunteers for companionship, conversation, and self-care needs.

HOW IT WORKS

Volunteers will be matched with a senior. Once matched, seniors and volunteers may work out a time and schedule that works best for them to connect.

Volunteers will receive (via email) detailed information and a spreadsheet to log their hours and call information.

Calls can last anywhere from 10 – 40 minutes or more.  It’s up to you and the senior client!

Volunteers are asked to document call information to inform the program and to help volunteers remember important information about their senior (i.e. preferences, sensitivities).

Volunteers will refer any needs identified during the call to Serving Seniors’ Health & Social Services Team via email (unless the need is identified as a “Red Flag Issue” as identified in training materials).

TRAINING + SUPERVISION

• Complete Serving Seniors’ volunteer application process
• Review the Connections Program training materials
• Coordinate any questions or concerns with Volunteer & Activities Manager 
• 3 month initial commitment
• For folks under 18 years of age, parental supervision during calls is required

INTERESTED?  NEXT STEPS:  

Please reach out to Christina Selder to discuss further christina.selder@servingseniors.org or (619) 487-0747.

PURPOSE:
Art is a sincere form of self-expression and, when shared, it has the power to build better connections to oneself and to others. The purpose of this program is to enhance the connection between our seniors and the community through art exhibits.

HOW IT WORKS:
You do not need to be an artist! You just need to be inspired to make something that communicates a thoughtful message to our seniors.
First, your group will need to select a theme for your exhibit. For example, everyone will draw images from nature or everyone will draw a car; however, each of you will create your own masterpiece. Everyone should agree on a date that all art pieces will be completed. Then, one or more people from your group will collect the art pieces and deliver them to Serving Seniors (at a pre-arranged time and location).

The Serving Seniors team will display your group’s work in a highly trafficked area of our housing sites (i.e. near the elevators, in the lobby, etc.). We will also promote your group’s work by creating a poster to accompany the exhibit. The poster will introduce your group to the seniors, the purpose of the project, and describe your chosen theme. Our team may choose to feature your exhibit at all of our housing sites. When the traveling exhibit is complete, we will contact your group’s representative to collect the art work.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

• Group of at least 5
• Canvas or foam-backed poster board to feature your art (3D art is not an option at this time)
• Display easel (unless we have some on-hand, please ask us)
• Designated delivery date
• Designated pick up date

INTERESTED? NEXT STEPS:
Please reach out to Christina Selder, Director of Community Engagement & Government Relations, to discuss your interest and ideas further at christina.selder@servingseniors.org or (619) 487-0747.

GET INSPIRED!

COVID-19 has changed the way volunteers can serve our seniors. We have created this document to  help you brainstorm alternative ways to show our seniors you care. Please read through and get inspired!

IDEAS TO EXPLORE

• Write letters to our seniors.
• Send seniors Valentine's Day cards.
• Donate new hair brushes.
• Create art we can display museum style at our housing sites.
• Donate bus/trolley passes.
• Donate pretty sweaters.
• Donate crossword or activity books.  Make copies of crossword puzzles on sturdy paper for distribution.
• Host a blanket, poncho, or umbrella drive.
• Sign up for our Connections Program.
• Donate hand washing soap or new towels.

INTERESTED? NEXT STEPS:

Before initiating any activity, please reach out to Christina Selder, Director of Community Engagement and Government Relations, at Christina.selder@servingseniors.org or (619) 487-0747 with your idea. She can help you get setup for success and review the COVID-19 protocols we have in place to ensure the health and safety of you, your group and our seniors. Thank you!