The program aims to connect young volunteers with seniors in the community who need companionship and support, fostering meaningful relationships and combating isolation among older adults. Through visitations, practical assistance, and documenting seniors' life stories, volunteers contribute to seniors' well-being while gaining valuable experiences and skills. This initiative promotes social inclusion, bridges generational gaps, and creates a more connected and compassionate community for all.

Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities 

Commit to a training session that will teach you visiting skills and how to deal with specific challenges that some older adults face. o Commit to practicing your social skills and approaching older adults with compassion, empathy, and active listening. 

Commit to at least 3 visits with an older adult where you may be required to assist them with practical things or help document their life story. 

Training and Preparation  Volunteers will undergo a screening process to ensure suitability for interacting with seniors and may attend training sessions covering topics such as active listening, empathy, understanding aging issues, and recognizing signs of elder abuse. 

Volunteers over 18 will be required to undergo a Vulnerable Sector Check. 

 Training will also include guidance on using the "My Story" prompts effectively to capture seniors' experiences and memories. 

Benefits for Volunteers 

Volunteers will gain valuable experiences and skills, including communication skills, empathy, compassion, and understanding of aging issues. 

By participating in inter-generational activities, volunteers will bridge generational gaps, combat ageism, and contribute to creating a more connected and compassionate community. 

Program Timeline 

February-May 2024: Identification of seniors and recruitment of youth volunteers. o End of May 2024: Screening and training sessions for selected participants. 

June to December 2024: Facilitation of visitations, assistance in creating memoirs, and possibly practical assistance. 

February or March 2025: Final gathering celebration for volunteers and seniors. 

Support and Resources 

Volunteers will receive supervision and support during visitations from St. Mary of Egypt program coordinators, designated staff as well as the team at Compassionate Community Care.

 Resources such as "My Story" prompts, guidelines for interacting with seniors, and access to relevant educational materials will be provided. • 

Next Steps 

Interested volunteers are encouraged to reach out to outreach@stmarysrefuge.org to express their interest and learn more about the program. o Thank you for considering volunteering in the Youth-Senior Gift Exchange Program. Your commitment and contribution will make a meaningful impact on the lives of seniors in our community.

How to Apply: If you're ready to join us on this fulfilling journey, send a brief statement expressing your interest to outreach@stmarysrefuge.org. We will send you our volunteer application, and follow up with you shortly. Let's work together to create lasting connections and brighten the lives of our seniors! Apply now and be the catalyst for positive change.