Volunteering is a wonderful way for people of all ages to share life experiences, talents and skills. We offer many excellent volunteer programs where you can make a difference. The possibilities are unlimited!

• Insurance Counselors
  Senior Services’ volunteer Insurance Counselors provide advice on filing or resolving Medicare, Medicaid or other medical claims issues and answer questions about the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefits. Our counselors are part of the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program, or VICAP. If you have an interest in helping others, you’d make a great addition to our team! (Volunteers cannot be insurance sales people, however.) Training is provided.
  
  To learn more, call 757-222-4512.
   

• Ombudsman Volunteers
  If you care about those who live in long-term care facilities, and are a diplomatic and skilled communicator, we can use your help. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is staffed by volunteers who advocate for older people receiving long-term care in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, and for those receiving care in the community. Once they have completed the three-day training session, volunteer Ombudsmen are assigned to a specific long-term care facility where they serve as advocates, monitoring the quality of care provided and ensuring that residents’ rights are protected. Volunteers are expected to make a one-year commitment and to contribute four hours per week, Monday through Friday. Ongoing training and support are provided.
  
  Call 757-461-9481 ext. 114 to volunteer.
   

• Senior Companion Program
  If you are age 60 and over and enjoy helping others, you’d make a great Senior Companion! This is a stipend paid volunteer program that offers services to adults with special needs in the community. As a Senior Companion, you’d perform a variety of tasks such as helping with grocery shopping, writing a letter or fixing a light meal, while providing companionship and respite care to those who are isolated, homebound or disabled.
  
  In addition to making a difference in another person’s life, the program delivers some great benefits: a tax-free hourly stipend, transportation reimbursement, supplemental insurance, a free annual physical examination and sick/vacation/holiday pay. Senior Companions must be able to work 20 hours a week.
  
  No fee: This service is free to those who have a need for assistance.
  
  If you are interested in becoming a senior companion - or if you need this service - call the Senior Companion Coordinator at 757-461-9481.
   

• Retired and Senior Volunteer Program
  If you are at least 55 years old, call us. We can use your help! Each year we match more than 1,200 people with volunteer positions through our Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. Your time and talents can help schools, libraries, museums, wellness centers and countless not-for-profit organizations including Senior Services.
  
  Fee: This is a free service for volunteers and the organizations that receive their help.
  
  If you are interested in participating in the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, call our Volunteer Department at 757-461-9481.

• "Boomerang" Program
  Baby boomers - and aspiring baby boomers - give back. That’s the idea behind he Boomerang Program - it’s for people of all ages who are interested in lending a hand. Whether you have a few minutes a day to make phone calls from home or a few hours a week to help with programs, projects and community events, Senior Services will help you make the most of your volunteer time.