Senior Companion Program
Everyone needs love, comfort, support and understanding. The companionship of a good friend provides needed support through many of life’s transitions. Too often, seniors become isolated at a time in their lives when they would most benefit from social contacts and assistance.
Our Senior Companion Program connects eligible seniors over 60 years old who live in Kane, Kendall and McHenry Counties with carefully screened volunteers who want to make a difference in the life of a senior. Since 1996, this program has been making friendship matches, successfully connecting volunteers with more than 100 seniors who were in need of extra companionship.
If you’re interested in participating in this program, or want to refer someone who you think might benefit from a weekly visit, please contact one of the following Senior Companion Coordinators:
- In Kane or McHenry County, call Jackie Smith at (847) 741-0404 (Kane),
or (815) 344-3555, or email: jackiesmith@seniorservicesassoc.org - In Kendall County, call Bonnie Schradel at (630) 553-5777,
or email: bschradel@seniorservicesassoc.org
Click on any topic below to learn more about our Senior Companion Program.
Return to top of page
Who Can Volunteer?
Volunteers must be:
- at least 18 years of age or older,
- willing and able to make weekly contact with their senior,
- friendly, dependable and compassionate and
- committed to making a positive difference in someone's life.
How are Volunteers Screened?
All potential volunteers must go thru a thorough screening process, which includes:
- completing an application,
- submitting a list of references,
- passing a background check, and
- having an informal interview
What Does a Senior Companion Do?
Through a minimum weekly visit, friendships develop which significantly decrease the loneliness and isolation felt by the senior. Volunteers often help around the home or just spend time reminiscing with the senior. Sometimes volunteers spend time visiting with the seniors in person on a regular basis, or by calling their companion regularly to help them not feel so lonely.
Why Do Volunteers Become Senior Companions?
Our volunteers have many reasons for choosing this program including:
- they enjoy making new friends;
- having the opportunity to help and spend time with a senior citizen;
- being able to have the flexibility to decide their own schedule;
- stay-at-home parents enjoy the opportunity of bringing their young children along to the delight of the seniors;
- those who work, or have lots of other commitments enjoy being able to have a weekly, meaningful volunteer experience that fits into their work schedule and doesn't take a great deal of time.
What are the Benefits of Volunteering?
In addition to the satisfaction that comes from doing good for others, Senior Services offers some benefits to eligible volunteers through our Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). You may qualify for mileage and meal reimbursement, excess liability insurance coverage, and more. Click here for more RSVP information.
