Friendly Visitors - Friendly Callers

A special program that came about when some of the in-home services staff found clients who were more interested in visiting during the time the homemakers or chore workers were scheduled to work at their homes instead of having the staff complete their tasks.  As a result, a volunteer-based program called Friendly Visitors was established.  Shortly afterwards, it was expanded to include the Friendly Callers program as well.

Friendly Visitors and Callers are volunteers who are matched with a homebound senior citizen who would like some additional companionship.  The Visitor volunteers spend an hour a week visiting in the senior's home, talking about family, friends, current events, like interests, etc.  The Friendly Callers are volunteers who contact the senior they are assigned daily over the telephone to check on the senior's well being and to chat for a few minutes.  The visits and calls are arranged at a time that is convenient for both the senior and the volunteer.  In both cases, true friendships develop that can span years.

The volunteers who participate in these programs range in age from children visiting with their parents to 80+ year old caller volunteers.  They are individuals who enjoy spending time with people and sharing a bit of themselves with others.  Volunteers are asked to attend an introductory training session during which the Council on Aging's programs and services are described and how they can make referrals through CoA to get needed help for their "Client" when they see potential problems.  A system for notification during emergencies is also addressed and the support that is offered through the program for the volunteer as well as for the senior "Client".  The Program Facilitator schedules training at different locations throughout the county on a rotating basis.

For more information on the Friendly Visitor/Caller Program, to find out the next scheduled training date and location or to inquire about having a Friendly Visitor/Caller, contact CoA at 1-810-987-8811 or 1800-297-0099.

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