Want to be a Senior Services Volunteer?
It has been said that we must learn to “focus on what can—instead of what can’t be done”. If you’re a CAN DO person, we need you!
Here are 10 reasons to JUST DO IT!
10. To learn something about yourself.
Maybe you’re like a pied-piper in disguise! People may ADORE you, but maybe you’ll only find that out after you spend an afternoon helping someone else.
9. To have fun!
Volunteer doing something you love, and it will be amazing!
8. Because you’re passionate about a cause.
You always loved people, so naturally you want to work at a Senior Center. Volunteer and be involved in something you really care about!
7. To explore career possibilities...
Maybe you’re heading to (or are already in) college or the ‘work world.’ By volunteering with us you can find out if you’re interested in going into the social services field by spending time and being involved with seniors. Experience is key!
6. It’s time to get off the couch.
5. Learn some new skills…and add them to your resume!
You can learn a ton from volunteering, and what a great way to add stuff to your resume for future jobs or college applications!
4. To fulfill graduation requirements.
Maybe you need to volunteer for 50 hours in order to graduate. Awesome! Get out there and volunteer your time (and who knows, maybe you’ll do extra hours because it’s so great!)!
3. Make someone else’s day.
Your extra effort to help someone or some organization can make a world of a difference to them.
2. Feel good about yourself!
1. It’s time to DO SOMETHING!
So, are you Retired and Senior? Start here.
The National Senior Service Corps (Senior Corps)
Senior Corps is a network of programs that tap the experience, skills and talents of older citizens to meet community challenges. Retired and Senior Volunteers provide a variety of services that range from leading local museum tours to teaching adult education computer classes. Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions meet income eligibility requirements, serve 20 hours per week and receive small stipends. RSVP volunteers serve without compensation, but may be reimbursed for such expenses as mileage costs. Insurance protection is provided to volunteers while on assignment. Call Judy Donath at 528-4035 to sign up!
Young and Enthusiastic? (at any age) Start here.
We have lots of ways for young people to be involved. And infinite reasons why, including hanging with someone who has been through what you’re going to be going through. Appreciative, caring, informed and wise, seniors are full of interesting stories and advice.
There are a number of activities you can assist with or direct, if you’re up for the challenge.
Call Judy Donath or Cindi Troutner at 528-4035. Tell them when you’re available and they’ll match you up with activities you’ll enjoy.
Daily Bread
The Daily Bread program is always in need of dedicated volunteers to deliver meals to home-bound seniors. If you are available to donate even 2 hours one day per week or month, please contact Melissa Jones, Director of Daily Bread, at 528-4035 to sign up.
Fundraising Events
Senior Services of Central Illinois is home to some of the most creative fundraising events in Central Illinois. Events like:
- “Rocking into the Future” - featuring artist-painted rocking chairs and a dance that will leave you saying “far out, man!”
- Golf “FORE!” - a fall golf outing where the key word is “scramble.” Featuring a fun day, dinner and auction.
- “goin’ GONKO for Chilli” – featuring chilli from famous chilli chef and cook-off judge, Les Eastep. With home-made desserts and carry-out, it’s a fall classic.
- The Mature Mob’s “Remembering the Harvest Moon Ball” - last year’s production from the Mature Mob was fabulous. Complete with a fried chicken dinner, everyone had a great evening supporting an awesome group of fundraisers.
The Senior Center
It’s a great place to volunteer. We have opportunities to volunteer in the Gift Shop, mentoring seniors, kitchen, activities. We are always looking for someone to lead new groups or classes. You can volunteer by filing Circuit Breaker for seniors, assisting with Money Management, housekeeping services or with the Senior Health Insurance Program. Please call 528-4035 to volunteer.