LSS Senior Companion Program expands into Northwestern Minnesota
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota is seeking volunteers for its Senior Companion Service, in partnership with AmeriCorps Seniors, a national service agency, to offer friendship and support to older adults in the community.
LSS recently expanded the Senior Companion service to counties in Northwestern Minnesota with additional funding from AmeriCorps Seniors. The new counties served include: Kittson, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake and Roseau. With these new counties, the LSS Senior Companion service is now offered statewide.
Senior Companion volunteers are age 55 and older and visit older adults weekly offering encouragement, sharing their time and talents, assisting with errands, grocery shopping and transportation to appointments to assist older adults in remaining healthy and independent.
“I wanted to volunteer and pay it forward because I have been in need, and others have offered their help and support,” shared Kay Kraulik, a new Senior Companion volunteer. “I like to be around people and make them happy. It gives me the opportunity to help others and make a difference in their lives.”
And, the rewards go both ways, enriching the lives of Senior Companion volunteers as well. In a recent survey, Lutheran Social Service learned that over 90% of volunteers either agree or strongly agree that their volunteer experience at LSS has changed their life in a positive way. Almost 85% say that they feel more socially connected because of their service as a volunteer. More than 76% say that they feel healthier because of their service as an LSS volunteer.
“I am a happier person because I volunteer, and it motivates me and gives me something to look forward to,” Kraulik said. “It brightens my day.”
“Volunteering is a great way to give back to those in your community,” said Carolyn Scherer, program director for Lutheran Social Service. “I hope many others will join us in this important service to our neighbors who are so grateful for the support.”
The Senior Companion Service is currently seeking volunteers who are age 55 years or older and can commit to at least 10 hours per week. Volunteers receive an hourly stipend, a chance to stay connected and a meaningful opportunity to make a difference in the lives of older adults. No prior volunteer experience is needed, and training is provided.
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota conducts background checks to ensure safety. Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota welcomes volunteers from various cultures, backgrounds, traditions and stages in life to inquire. If you are interested in becoming a Senior Companion volunteer, call 888.205.3770, email [email protected] or visit lssmn.org/volunteer/seniorcompanion.