Last week we talked about volunteering and how it can change your life. It’s easy to get started because all you need to do is call or come into the Community Care office and start the conversation. Even if you have never volunteered before the conversation will be an easy one. Our staff members are professionals at volunteer management. Give it a try. We want to see you soon.

First comes the quick conversation at the desk … right after you saying “I’d like to be a volunteer”. An appointment will be made for you to come in for an interview. When you come back for the interview we will ask you to bring along some references.

Community Care volunteers are asked to fill out a form so that a “vulnerable sector background check” can be performed by the local OPP office. This is standard procedure when screening new volunteers. The safety of the seniors who are agency clients is of paramount importance. Your references will be checked as well. Volunteer drivers are also asked to give us permission to check their driving record and are required to provide proof that they carry appropriate insurance coverage.

You’ll have a conversation with one of our staff members about your background, interests and goals. She will explain what’s involved with volunteering to help at congregate dining events; delivering Meals on Wheels; fundraising; working in the Thrift Shop; visiting or calling seniors on a regular basis; helping with the County Seniors Centre programming; and the many other activities that we have on the go.

Once you and the co-ordinator agree on what you’ll become involved in we will give you an appropriate orientation package and sometimes you will be invited to an orientation session. Then you’re on your way to a wonderful new experience that can change your life.

These are some comments from Community Care volunteers: “I drive people now, knowing that someday I will need the service myself.” “It’s just my way of giving a little back to the community.” A Meals on Wheels volunteer said “it is so gratifying to become a part of these individuals’ lives, when they share their history and knowledge with you it makes it so very special, because you know that you are helping and making a difference in their lives.” “I’ve been volunteering at Community Care for well over 20 years, and soon it will be my time to retire from this role, but I’m not ready yet, I can’t imagine my life without it!”

And a new volunteer, after delivering Meals on Wheels for the first time said “That was a blast! I love delivering Meals on Wheels! Put me on the list in case you need someone to fill in.” To begin this new and exciting phase of your life as a Community Care volunteer, and to become one of the 6+ million Canadians who are volunteers, come into the office at 74A King Street in Picton or call 613-476-7493.

What’s coming up?

A presentation on “Learn about Power of Attorney and Wills” with Community Advocacy and Legal Centre is at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 15 at Athol Town Hall. Call 613-476-7493 to register. Fitness 4 Seniors (gentle fit) starts Friday, Jan. 18 at Wellington Town Hall and runs for 10 weeks. Call 613-476-7493 to register. The VON Falls Prevention Program starts a new session starting on Friday, Jan. 18 in Picton. To register or for more information call the VON at 1-888-279-4866 ext. 5381. The Prince Edward OPP will present on “What seniors need to know about winter driving, personal safety and more” on Monday, Jan. 21 at the Ameliasburgh Town Hall. Call 613-476-7493 for more information and to register.