Now that the holidays are over and the winter doldrums are starting to give way to more pleasant weather, are you looking to get more active or find something meaningful to do? If you answered yes, look into volunteering with Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, Inc.’s Senior Programs. Tri-Valley’s Senior Programs consists of the Caring Companion Program and the Foster Grandparent Program.
The Caring Companion Program consists of companions who are 50 years or older. They help other seniors by visiting with them, taking them to appointments, helping with errands and groceries, playing cards or games, having coffee with them and being a friend to them. Caring Companions can make a difference in the quality of life for a lonely senior.
The Foster Grandparent Program consists of volunteers who are 55 years or older. They volunteer in schools, Head Starts, Developmental Achievement Centers, non-profit day cares and juvenile centers under the supervision of a teacher or childcare professional. They assist children with activities in which they need assistance and mentor children and youth.
Have you considered the benefits of volunteering? Here are a few of many:
- Volunteering is good for your mind and body. Your role as a volunteer can give you a sense of pride and identity. And the better you feel about yourself, the more likely you are to have a positive view of your life and future goals.
- Volunteering helps you stay physically healthy and it is especially beneficial in older adults. Mortality rate is lower among volunteers and volunteering has also been shown to lessen symptoms of chronic pain or heart disease.
- Volunteering can make you happy. Helping others kindles happiness. Research has shown that the good feelings you experience when helping others may be just as important to your health as exercise and a healthy diet. But it’s the smile from a child or thankful person that shows you’re really making a difference in someone’s life. And that’s the greatest feeling in the world.
Tri-Valley has Caring Companion and Foster Grandparent opportunities throughout Northwest Minnesota. For more information on how to become a Foster Grandparent, Caring Companion or how to receive Caring Companion Services call Heidi, Jeanette, Jean, Jessica, or Marley at 1-800-584-7020.