Your time and skills can make a big difference in the lives of those in your local community!
Why Volunteer?
Numerous studies have shown that volunteering improves your mental and physical health. Research shows that volunteers experience better health in later years, whether in terms of greater longevity, higher functional ability, or lower rates of depression.
Legacy Link, including the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), offers a variety of options for people who are interested in spending some of their time helping others. Whether referring volunteers to other agencies in need of assistance or welcoming them to the Legacy Link volunteer team, we strive to provide a positive and meaningful experience. We can help you assess your skills, likes, and availability in order to find a volunteer position that matches your needs and interests.
Those individuals who are 55 years of age or older may opt to enroll in the RSVP program, a national organization which matches experienced older adults with non-profit agencies in need of assistance to provide services for the local community.
Legacy Link offers volunteer positions with various programs here in the Area Agency on Aging. Required skills and training differ for each position. Most programs are looking for dedicated volunteers who can make a commitment to serving several hours each week or month and continue in the position for at least 6 months. Those looking for less demanding or occasional volunteer opportunities may also find something meaningful that fits your needs.
Volunteer Opportunities
GeorgiaCares SHIP Counselor – Assist Medicare beneficiaries with information about Original Medicare, Medicare Health and Drug Plans, Medicare Supplement Insurance and Medicare Cost Savings. (SHIP = State Health Insurance Assistance Program)
GeorgiaCares Outreach Volunteer – Promote and market community awareness of Medicare health insurance information, assistance, and referral services provided by GeorgiaCares. Provide presentations or simply distribute information at sites near your home.
GeorgiaCares Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) – Educate Medicare beneficiaries to protect their personal identity, detect potential errors, fraud, and abuse, and also to report any of these issues to the appropriate agencies.
Ombudsman Volunteer Visitors – Make friendly visits and listen to the concerns of residents at nursing homes and personal care homes. Key volunteer qualities include compassion, respect, confidentiality, a positive attitude, and the ability to communicate effectively.
Senior Centers
Deliver Meals on Wheels – Deliver noon meals to homebound individuals. Requires your own vehicle and a commitment of only a few hours a month.
Senior Center Volunteer – Teach an activity at your local senior center or assist with programs. Activities may include exercise, dance, art, crafts, computer skills, and other age appropriate interests.
Telephone Reassurance – Phone homebound seniors to check on their welfare and combat loneliness.
Clerical – Assist with administrative duties like filing, mailings, office tasks.
Special Events – Assist with special projects or occasional events.
RSVP – Answer the invitation to serve! The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) matches volunteers ages 55+ with opportunities at Legacy Link and other non-profit agencies in our North Georgia service area. Put your skills and experience to good use by helping those in your community. Choose from a selection of positions with varying locations, time commitments, and activities.
Contact Info:
Legacy Link, Area Agency on Aging
Volunteer Services
508 Oak St.
Gainesville, GA 30501
770-538-2650