Senior Companions are volunteers aged 55 or older, who help frail adults achieve and maintain their highest level of independent living. Income eligible volunteers receive a small stipend that enables them to provide practical, compassionate volunteer service while making a very tangible difference in the lives of those they serve.
Maine Programs
- Senior Companion Program sponsored by The Opportunity Alliance
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County: Cumberland, York
Primary Contact: Sonya Thibeau
Opportunity Alliance
222 St. John Street, Suite 302B
Portland, ME 04102
phone: 207-773-0202
fax: 207-874-1182
email: sonya.thibeau @opportunityalliance.org
web site: www.opportunityalliance.orgAdults age 55 and over have an opportunity to make a difference in an older person’s life while enhancing their own. Senior Companions make independence a reality for frail elders and their families by providing companionship, increased socialization, transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping and other essential errands, and respite for family caregivers.
Volunteers who complete our application process (including background checks), meet generous income guidelines, are able to commit to a consistent schedule, and are eligible for a number of benefits. These include a non-taxable stipend, meal and travel assistance, paid time off, pre-service and ongoing training, supervision and recognition.
To find out more about our program please call us at 207-773-0202 or toll free 1-800-698-4959 or email SCP@opportunityalliance.org
- University of Maine Center on Aging Senior Companion Program
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Counties: Androscoggin, Franklin, Hancock, Kennebec, Oxford, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Somerset, Waldo, Washington
Primary Contact: Michael R Morang, LSW
Director, Senior Companion Program
UMaine Center on Aging
Camden Hall
25 Texas Avenue
Bangor, Maine 04401-4324
telephone: 207-262-7929; fax: 207-262-7921
e-mail: michael.morang@maine.edu
website: www.mainecenteronaging.orgHelping elders stay independent can be a challenge in Maine's rural areas. Many older adults are isolated and do not have relatives living nearby to visit on a regular basis and must rely on others to help assist them. Through the University of Maine Center on Aging Senior Companion Program, homebound elders are able to maintain their independence by living in place longer thanks to regular visits from Senior Companion Volunteers who are dedicated, active individuals age 55 and older.
Since 2019, more than 50 Senior Companion Volunteers have been trained in the evidence based Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) model. MHFA is an adult public education program designed to improve participants' knowledge and modify their attitudes and perceptions about mental health and related issues. The training provides an individual with the tools to identify and respond to someone who may be experiencing one or more mental health crisis and or a substance use disorder.
With the MHFA training, UMaine Center on Aging Senior Companion Program Volunteers are well equipped with knowledge and resources to connect those they serve in the community with the supports available in their area.
Job opening with the program: Program Coordinator - Senior Companion Program
The UMaine Center on Aging Senior Companion Program is looking for a new program coordinator! If you're looking for a new challenge and have a desire to help Maine's homebound elders maintain their independence, use the link below to access the application.