nursing home volunteer opportunities near me

• Our Mission
• Our History
• Pictures and Stories
• Recent Newsletters
• Gainesville, Florida
• Anywhere Else!

Starter Manual

Communication skills, for family members, orientation materials, bridging generations with ageless friendship, we can help you learn more about how to connect with residents of nursing homes, wherever you are.

To help you along your journey

Bridging Generations

The Friends Across the Ages book is now available!

Find out what it's like to run a program like Friends Across the Ages in your own home town.

Follow this tips and you'll be communicating better with elders in no time.

If you have a family member in a nursing home, these tips will help you support them most effectively.

Some material you'll definitely want to read before volunteering at a nursing home.

FRIENDS ACROSS THE AGES

To reach out to our brothers and sisters in nursing homes, to enrich their lives and ours

Friends Across the Ages traces its roots back to the Nursing Home Volunteer Auxiliary, founded in 1983

Read some of the life changing stories of both volunteers and the nursing home residents they serve

Several times a year we publish a old-fashioned snail mail newsletter – read back issues here

The Friends Across the Ages blog is a collaborative project, with contributions from volunteers in our Gainesville, Florida location. The latest blog entry appears below.

Bridging Generations – Worth the Wait!

After years of work and contributions from so many individuals, the Friends Across the Ages book, "Bridging Generations", is finally out!

Elder Helpers

Skip to content

Bringing generations together.

Help an elder near you, give back to the community, connect with an elder, gain wisdom.

• Create a volunteer account
• Upgrade to VIP status
• Update your profile, availability & log hours
• Be the best volunteer
• Read testimonials of volunteers
• Visit the photo gallery

Over 10,000 Active Volunteers

Reputable nationwide service, acting for the public good, safe and reliable, in need of help.

• Get your code to contact volunteers
• Find volunteers where you need help
• How to participate
• Read testimonials of people being helped

ElderHelpers.org is a user-friendly, web-based service. We believe that compassion at its finest is free. Volunteers register to offer their services based on their true desire to help elders. ElderHelpers.org strives to safely and conveniently connect these dedicated, passionate volunteers with elderly in their local communities. We are a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in the United States since 2008. For more information please read our FAQs .

How It Works

• We recruit, screen, and train volunteers for senior care
• You register for you as an elder or for a senior you help
• You connect easily with safe volunteers by phone

Testimonials

I would like to start helping the elderly in any way I can. I just want to do something meaningful and I think this is the way I can do that and make someone feel special. Everyone deserves to feel that way and I want to be a part of that. Elizabeth Thornton Getting Started

I was able to find a volunteer to help my mum, I am glad that this site exist and that lots of people are volunteering to help people like me. Diane Thanks for your help!

I just started this volunteering program and im very excited to help the elderly. My name is Darinique but if thats too hard just call me Paris. I've been anxious to get a call and get started but still no luck but god will bless me with somebody to help. I just know he will Darinique Bynoe Very excited to volunteer !

i cant wait to volunteer and help a elderly person in the gulfport area i love to help the elderly and i care about them. Fran. frances story ready to volunteer

Kudos to everyone there that make this service possible. It gives me great comfort to know my parents are getting some help from a very nice young man who my mom says is great and a big help to her and my dad. Keep up the great work! Michele Potter Kudos!

Every time I needed to find someone to help me with some light tasks around the house and the garden I wanted to cry because I felt alone and helpless. Finally I found this site and some wonderful volunteers to come over and help me with the garden. I spoil them with my apple pies! Marcy Garcia help with my garden

I live in a rural area in Missouri and I was surprised that someone was actually available within 10 miles of my zipcode. Thanks Elder Helpers! Mike Davis really cool

Super! thanks for your help I was able to find someone to visit my mum in Kentucky. Michael Wright Thanks EdlerHelpers.org

Thanks elderhelpers.org for helping me find someone to help my mother. Frank Davis Helping my mother

My name is Robbin I am a person who loves giving back for god has blessed with the ability and the compassion to help out others it is the best feeling in the world to know that you can help out any way possible there are always others out there that need our help just glad I am able to help. Even if you just need a friend to talk to. I am here for you. I love running errands, cleaning house. I am in the pea ridge area, so if you live there give me a call, I can even mow your yard. Robbin Phillips TESTIMONAL

I used to mow lawns for seniors when I was growing up and loved visiting with them before and after and loved hearing their life stories and loved telling them mine lol at the time I was only about 12 or 13 but I did this for about four years and had a great time and felt wonderful inside. I cant wait to spend some of my free time with some seniors again who desperately may just want a visitor to talk with, That's me!I also would like to help with odds and ends if they need it as well. Dennis Belanger would love to get back to visiting

Hi there i just can't wait to be a part of elder helpers and i would be so happy if your organization give me a chance to work for these seniors and i can prove myself that i can really do something for them and put a great smile on their faces by not just being a volunteer but a good friend to them. Veena Varma Love To Be A Volunteer For Elder Helpers.

my name is Brittany an i am really looking far to helping the elder im a outgoing person i love reading listening to music ,cleaning and cooking i have a great background ,i have a lot of free time on my hands so this is the the best to keep my self busy by becoming a helper to others that need it ... Brittany Helping

I've been looking everywhere for something like this and I couldn't believe it when I actually found it. I dreamt of it, Elder Helpers did it! Jennifer Awesome program

I love helping the elderly because i want them to feel they are still needed and i love to see the smile on their faces when they are happy.Hoping to help out someone in need very soon. Thandi Helping out

I am happy to be part of this and its great to expess our true feeing and I just wanna thank you everyone for being a part of this program.. Alice hello

i just registered to volunteer and i am looking forward to help my community. i hope i start soon. i cant wait to put a smile on there faces. brandon gamble

i am a new arrival among you here. today i discovered the work you are in. i admired the spirit of the volunteers. i wish best of luck to all. have a nice day... mehmet oz admired your spirit

I was able to get in touch with someone through your site and we are planning on meeting this week. Thank you for your organization. John Thank you for your organization

I would like to start helping the elderly in any way I can. I just want to do something meaningful and I think this is the way I can do that and make someone feel special. Everyone deserves to feel that way and I want to be a part of that. Kareena Getting Started

Background checks provided by:

Partner in trust:, the elder helpers values:.

All rights reserved Campaign for Aging Research a 501(c)(3) public benefit organization, E.I.N. 26-2945586 - Copyright © 2010-2024 elderhelpers.org

• CONTACT US or call: (305) 716-0710    
• COVID-19 INFORMATION
• Private Pay
• Helpful Customer Links
• For Clinical Partners
• For Employers
• Request Service
• Helpful Caregiver Links
• Gift Certificates
• Leadership and Management Team
• Board of Directors

Testimonials

• Qualifications
• Funding Sources
• Photo/Video Gallery
• Volunteer Support
• Annual Awards
• Sponsorship Opportunities
• Photo Gallery
• Past Honorees

WHAT CAN WE HELP YOU WITH? Información en Español CREOLE -->

• Purchase Gift Certificates
• Donate to UHC
• Volunteer at UHC
• Corporate Volunteers
• Individual Volunteers

Donate to UHC »

Volunteer at uhc », donate or sponsor uhc claude pepper awards ».

You Can Make a Difference

Make a difference by volunteering.

From just a few hours a week to a few hours a year, any time you can contribute volunteering can mean so much to someone that is homebound or in a community care setting. The personal rewards of volunteering can also make a surprising difference in your life.

In fact, volunteering can actually be good for your health – physically, mentally and emotionally. According to a study by the Corporation of National and Community Service, volunteers have lower mortality rates, lower rates of depression if over the age of 65, and enjoy a greater sense of self-worth and trust. Another recent study found that volunteering helps people manage and lower stress levels, while also helping them feel a deeper connection to their communities and to others.

Friends for Senior Volunteer Program

Being a friend is a powerful act of caring, but it can also be a simple act. Volunteers can make a difference in the lives of these individuals by visiting those who live alone and providing friendly companionship and social contact with the community – from providing reading assistance and letter writing, to enjoying a casual conversation or a leisurely walk. All it takes is the desire to give your time, just an hour and a half each month.  We invite individuals who want to learn more about Friends for Seniors to call or make an appointment.

Telephone Contact : A friendly phone call to a homebound older adult can make his or her day by showing that someone else cares. This is especially true during holidays, birthdays or other special occasions. It also can contribute to a client's continued health. You may choose to call one client or as many as you desire.

Grocery Shopping: A simple trip to the supermarket to pick up and deliver groceries can help a frail older adult maintain good nutrition, especially when such basic tasks become difficult for them because of chronic conditions or transportation obstacles.

Chores/Housekeeping : Sometimes the homebound need a little extra help around their house. Your help may be as little as replacing a light bulb or dusting. But your light help will go a long way. Your time commitment can be one hour or as many as you desire to give.*

Repairs : Are you handy with a hammer or screwdriver? Make someone's life a little easier by doing small repairs around their home. Your time commitment can be three hours or more.*

United HomeCare® Office Assistance : We always need people willing to file, make copies and answer phones. Your help goes a long way.

Special Programs and Projects (holiday baskets, special events, etc.): We periodically conduct special projects to make the lives of homebound older adults more pleasant. For example, each Thanksgiving we prepare and deliver hundreds of Thanksgiving baskets to grateful homebound adults in the Miami area. We need people like YOU to make these important projects happen.  Your time commitment can be as little as three hours.* Special projects are ideal for schools and businesses that want to make a difference as an organization.

We offer many volunteer opportunities – addressing specific interests and time limitations – in which you or your organization can participate. We can even customize a volunteer program tailored to your business, school or organization.

*By Florida and Federal law, certain volunteer opportunities require a background check.

Volunteers must complete a volunteer application, agree to a background check (where applicable) and attend a two-hour training session. In most cases, volunteers must be at least 16 years of age.

Services are provided without any discrimination in compliance with the Americans with Disability Act (ADA). We provide reasonable accommodations to all those with a disability as defined under the ADA.

REGISTRATION #: CH481  A copy of the official registration and financial informtation may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free (1-800-435-7352) within the State, or via the internet at www.800HelpFLA.com. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the State.

Through Life’s Challenging Seasons, We’re Here to Help.

Volunteer at Four Seasons

“volunteers are an essential part of what we do at four seasons and are truly the heart of our organization.”.

“We could not do what we do for our communities without the invaluable services they provide. Four Seasons Volunteers serve in roles that support our staff and that provide direct support to our patients and families. Their passion and dedication help to co-create the best care experience possible for those we serve and we are forever grateful to have them as part of our team.”

– Sheri Merrill, Director of Employee & Volunteer Solutions 

Volunteer Opportunities

Whether your goal is to meet new people, be more involved in the community, or give your time in honor of our care, there are many ways you can help. Many volunteers are family members or neighbors of those we have served – and they want to give back. Our volunteers provide a variety of services to our patients, families, and staff. Whether providing companionship to people facing serious, life-limiting illness, assisting with community outreach or providing office support, Volunteers are an essential part of our Four Seasons team.

If you are looking for ways to give your time to the Four Seasons’ community, please read on to learn more about opportunities for engaging in volunteer service at Four Seasons.

Patient & Family Support

Caregiver Respite in Home Care Setting

• Visit with patients on a scheduled basis for companionship and emotional support.
• Provide respite for caregivers to make appointments, staying with patients in the home.  Shifts are up to three-hours, once a week.

Nursing Homes & Assisted Living Facilities

• Visit assigned patient(s) on a weekly basis.
• Provide socialization and supportive presence for patients residing in Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities.

Elizabeth House

• Perform tasks to ensure comfort and care in a homelike environment.
• Provide emotional support, companionship, and assistance to patients as appropriate.
• Distribute meals, help stock linen closets, and keep common areas tidy.
• Assist staff in answering patient call bells and visitor questions as needed.

Transportation & Errands

• Run errands for an assigned patient on an as-needed basis.
• Transport assigned patient to medical appointments, shopping, etc. (Must meet minimum requirements for auto liability coverage.)

Pet Therapy

• Visit assigned patients in facilities.
• Visit patients at Elizabeth House.
• Pet therapy animals must be trained, registered and insured.

Hair Stylists

• Visit patients in home care settings and provide haircuts on an as-needed basis.
• All Hair Stylist Volunteers must have appropriate licensure/certification as required by North Carolina state law.

Bereavement Client Care

• Make monthly check-in phone calls to bereavement clients.
• Visit bereaved clients to provide emotional support and social interaction.

We Honor Veterans

• Connect veteran patients with veteran volunteers.
• Assist in honoring our veteran patients with a Pinning Ceremony.

More Opportunities

Administrative Support

• Provide office support for one of our administrative offices. This can be done in-office or from home.
• Administrative tasks may include copying, filing, data entry, mailings, making phone calls, etc.

Facilities & Maintenance

• Deliver paper goods and supplies at one of our offices.
• Assist with light handiwork and maintenance jobs.

Home Stores

• Serve in a fun, team-oriented retail environment in downtown Hendersonville, Arden, and Brevard.
• Help to receive, price, and sort donations.
• Work on the sales floor as a cashier or help to keep the store neat, clean, and well-stocked.
• Bake homemade goodies for special events throughout the year.
• Sew, Knit or crochet a variety of different comfort items and quilts for patients. Create sewn memory items for families of patients served by Four Seasons..

Gardening at Elizabeth House

• Help maintain Elizabeth House gardens by weeding, dead-heading, and mulching.
• Fill bird feeders and clean bird houses as needed.

Greeting at Elizabeth House

• Greet and welcome visitors in the front lobby of Elizabeth House.
• Orient family and visitors to the facility.

Hospitality Team at Elizabeth House

• Make homemade goodies 1 – 2 times per month to share with Elizabeth House patients, families, and staff from an old-fashioned tea cart.
• Decorate Elizabeth House seasonally for holidays.

Faith & Community Representatives

• Serve as the Four Seasons representative within their congregation and to the local community.
• Ensure awareness and understanding of Four Seasons services and how to access our care.

Special Events, Fundraising, Community Outreach

• Help staff special events and fundraising events throughout the year.
• Assist with prep work leading up to the event.
• Serve on committees to plan, organize, and facilitate events.

Facility Activities

• Visit assigned nursing home or assisted living facility as scheduled.
• Help lead group resident activities such as bingo, art, and music.

Frequently Asked Questions about Volunteering

Q:  What is the time commitment involved for volunteers? A: It’s really up to you and what works for your schedule. Most volunteers will average 4 to 12 hours each month.

Q:  What training is required?  A: Orientation is required for all new volunteers. Patient & Family Support training is required for those serving patients and bereavement clients.

Q:  Where are the patients that I would serve?  A: Volunteers typically visit patients in their own county or region, but some are willing to travel further. Many of our patients are still in their homes; others are in assisted living and nursing facilities. It is up to the volunteer to determine how far they will travel to visit patients, and in what setting they wish to serve.

Q:  Will I be paid or reimbursed for mileage?  A: No, we do not offer mileage reimbursement or payment. However, you may choose to track your mileage and submit to the IRS for a tax deduction. More information on this is available at orientation.

Q:  I have suffered a personal loss recently. Can I still volunteer? A: It is our policy that new volunteers must wait one year to serve patients after they have suffered a loss. Non-patient related opportunities are available to everyone and could be a great way to get started volunteering in this case.

Q:  Do I have to work directly with patients?  A: Not at all. There are so many ways you can volunteer with Four Seasons that don’t involve serving patients.

Q:  Why do I have to provide proof of Auto Insurance if my volunteer role does not involve driving?  A: It is our policy that all employees and volunteers have a copy of this proof of coverage on file, regardless of the job they perform.

Q:  Can minors participate in your volunteer program?  A: Yes, minors under the age of 18 can volunteer in a variety of ways. Please speak with a member of the Volunteer Solutions Team about what roles are available.

Q:  May I volunteer for my school’s internship?  A: Yes, our administrative office hosts Work-based Learning and Innovative High School interns on a frequent basis. The training and application are the same for students as any other volunteers.

Q:  Can I volunteer to complete hours for court-ordered service?   A: At this time our volunteer program cannot support court-mandated service hours.

Opportunities for volunteers are provided without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability or veteran status. 

How to Become a Volunteer

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with four seasons it is a special person that is willing to give the time, talents, and energy it takes to help others at such a critical time in their lives..

There are several steps to complete before becoming a volunteer with Four Seasons. The first is to submit your application. You can do that by following this link:  Four Seasons Volunteer Application

Once we have received your application, a member of the Volunteer Solutions Team will contact you to schedule your  training . Be on the lookout for an email from FourSeasonsCFL.org.

The next step is to complete New Volunteer Orientation. To learn more about this process and to register for training, please click here .

Once you have completed orientation and training, your Volunteer Coordinator will sit down with you for a  face-to-face interview . This is where you will discuss your schedule, preferred time commitment, and sign paperwork.  Proof of Auto Liability Coverage  is required for all active volunteers, and  two-stage TB screening  is required for volunteers serving in patient homes and facilities. A  criminal background check  and  two personal references  are also required. Your Volunteer Coordinator will be happy to answer any questions you have about our policies during your training and interview.

Volunteer Blog

Volunteering at Four Seasons is a Work of Heart

Volunteering at Four Seasons is a Work of Heart. Many of our volunteers know first-hand how palliative and hospice care benefits patients and families. Read their stories and what volunteering at Four Seasons means to them below.Bill Tankersley After losing his wife,...

Sewing Volunteers

Author: Jennifer Fox, Volunteer Coordinator Four Seasons sewing volunteers provide many different services to patients and clients. They make comfort items such as neck pillows, butterfly pillows, busy aprons for dementia patients, and relief packs containing rice...

Tuck-In Call Volunteers

Every Thursday morning, volunteers arrive at Four Seasons’ Franklin, Asheville, and Flat Rock offices prepared to make dozens of calls to hospice patients receiving in-home care. They are part of a dedicated “tuck-in call” team, and many of them have been giving their...

Volunteer Spotlight: Julia Hunt

Author: Chloe Jackson, West Volunteer Coordinator Pictured below: Julia Hunt (right) and her friend Nearly 30 years ago, Julia Hunt’s stepfather was admitted to a hospice in Kentucky. At the time, Julia was involved in other volunteer work, but her stepdad and...

Volunteer Opportunities Abound!

Author: Chloe Jackson-Pierce, West Region Volunteer Coordinator As the Volunteer Coordinator for the West region, I’m regularly touched by the compassion and commitment volunteers bring to their work. Since I joined the team at Four Seasons, I’ve seen volunteers go...

How I Became a Hospice Volunteer

Author: Dave Stewart, Hospice Volunteer How I Became a Hospice Volunteer I have been a Hospice volunteer since 2018. Before 2018, I had heard that Hospice was an organization that helped terminally ill patients, but that was about it. My sister developed a brain...

Volunteer Orientation and Training

Interested in finding out more about volunteer opportunities with Four Seasons? Contact us today to speak with a volunteer coordinator at   (828) 692-6178 or email [email protected].

What You’ll Learn

In new volunteer orientation, you’ll find out about Four Seasons – who we are, where we serve, and how volunteers are impacting lives across WNC. You’ll also learn about how our services are paid for, and the ins-and-outs of hospice and palliative care. By the time we’re through, you’ll have a solid understanding of why Four Seasons is a leading provider of trusted care and how volunteers are integral to our mission.

Interested in working with patients and families? In addition to orientation, you’ll complete Patient & Family Support Training to help prepare you. This training is led by members of our clinical staff and will supply you with the confidence to work one-on-one with patients and bereaved family members.

Please note: Before becoming a volunteer, you’ll supply Four Seasons with two personal references and the consent to perform a criminal background check. Two-stage TB screening is also required for volunteers who work directly with our patients or in a facility.