Senior Peer Counselors assist people to become more self-reliant, independent, and have an enhanced quality of living. Senior Peer Counselors also have the opportunity to directly influence the lives of older adults and people living with disabilities struggling with life transitions. This volunteer service is coordinated through the Center for Successful Living, the mental health program of NorthWest Senior & Disability Services serving older adults since April of 1989.
Volunteers are trained by professionals as Senior Peer Counselors to provide free, confidential, and supportive mentoring to persons 60 years and older in Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties. After training, volunteers visit older adults in geographic areas close to their own home. Mileage expenses are reimbursed for all travel.
Interested?
We are looking for committed adults 45 or older who have patience, a non-judgmental attitude, and empathy to coach older adults and people living with disabilities experiencing depression, loneliness, anxiety, grief, or changes in physical health. Volunteers also work with spousal caregivers, people facing end-of-life challenges, and people transitioning into long term care facilities. Each month, volunteers typically set aside approximately 10-12 hours for client contact and supervision. Twice a year, volunteers have the opportunity to attend optional two-hour education seminars.
Next Training
Our next training is September 19-21, 2011, from 8:00 AM-4:00 PM each day in Salem. Applications are due no later than Wednesday, September 7, 2011.
How do I learn more and/or apply?
You are invited to contact:
Jeff Lukehart, Ph.D., Coordinator
Center for Successful Living
(503) 304-3414/1-800-469-8772
jeff.lukehart@nwsds.org
