WASHOE COUNTY NEWS RELEASE
If you are interested in the well-being of elders in the community, the Washoe County Companion Volunteer program could be a perfect fit for you.
Just a few hours of commitment a week, from one volunteer, can greatly improve the quality of life of a person living with dementia. No specialized education or training is needed– simply a genuine interest in spending time with elderly and/or disabled individuals. The ideal volunteer will be patient and have a positive attitude.
Susan DeBoer, public guardian for Washoe County, says working as a volunteer is a very rewarding experience. “These are people from our neighborhoods, the elderly man you have said hello to when you are shopping, the elderly neighbor you waved at watering her garden. They are no longer able to be part of our community in the same way, but by you volunteering they know they are still a vital part of our community. They are still valued.”
The Washoe County Companion Volunteers program strives to improve the quality of life for the wards of Washoe County through friendly visitations. The volunteer training provides information on Washoe County Public Guardian Office, guardianships, elder abuse, mandated reporting, Alzheimer’s and other dementias, and an overview of how to communicate with people experiencing cognitive challenges.
Please fill out an application on the Washoe County Website at www.washoecounty.us/citizens if interested. For more information regarding the Companionship Volunteer opportunity, please contact Amanda Mathes at [email protected] or 775-674-8800.
