Be the Support an Older Adult Needs
This is a Chance to Contribute Meaningfully.
Senior Companion Volunteers at Senior Citizens Inc., are an essential piece of our nonprofit organization. The program is designed not only to engage active seniors who want to contribute meaningfully, but it also gives older adults the help they need.
As a Senior Companion, you’ll build lasting friendships while helping with simple day-to-day tasks, or just sharing a cup of coffee and conversation. Your presence provides comfort, connection, and peace of mind to clients—and often becomes one of the highlights of their week.
This program is designed not only to engage volunteers who want to give back in a meaningful way, but also to provide much-needed companionship and assistance to older adults in our community. Senior Companions make a real difference—reducing loneliness, supporting independence, and strengthening the bonds that hold our community together
Meet the requirements: Seniors who are 55 and older, physically active and have an interest in serving older adults are eligible.
Get expert training: Each Senior Companion will receive 40 hours of support and training their first year, including 20 hours of pre-service training.
Serve 20+ hours a week: Senior Companions serve at least 20 hours a week in homes with frail older adults or help in Adult Day Health Centers and Neighborhood Centers.
Do good work: The Senior Companion program is federally funded and part of AmeriCorps Seniors.
“When I first walked into Ruth Byck, there were so many people and there was so much to do, and you can really get overwhelmed. But you step back and focus and say where can I help and who can I help? If you see a need, you go there and you assist.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do I have to be to be a part of SCI’s senior companion program?
You must be at least 55 years of age.
How many hours a week will I serve?
The program requires a minimum commitment of 15 hours a week. The maximum number of hours a Companion may serve in a week is 40. We ask volunteers to commit to at least 20 hours of service each week on average.
How will I know what to do as a Senior Companion?
We provide 20 hours of pre-service training, which includes “hands-on” service experience. In addition, volunteers attend monthly in-service training sessions year-round to hone their skills. The training provides information on policies and procedures.
What is the cost to the client receiving the service of a Senior Companion?
None! We are able to provide Senior Companion services for free to those in need.
Is there a stipend for volunteers?
There is a nominal hourly stipend for qualifying volunteers with a household income at or below 200% of the Department of Health and Human Services poverty guidelines, as well as transportation stipends. Stipend earned are non-taxable and are not included as income for other Federal benefits
Get started with our Senior Companion program today.
If you meet the requirements for our Senior Companion program, we look forward to working with you. Please call us 912-23-0363 or fill out the form below to learn more.