Companions to Elders

Coordinators:
Audrey Lamb '11
Liz Shteyn '10

About us: Student volunteers are matched as weekly friendly visitors and companions with elderly residents in local agencies and nursing homes.  Small groups also provide one time activities and entertainment at senior centers around the holidays.  Companions to Elders seeks to establish fulfilling and enriching relationships between Brandeis students and the elderly in the Waltham area.

Different programs under our umbrella: None.

Where program meets: Students meet their companions at Leland Home or Maristhill Nursing Home (transportation is provided by the Waltham Group van).  Congregate house parties are hosted at the South Street Congregate Housing and students can walk to this location.

Days/Hours of program: Depend on schedule of Waltham Group van since transportation is needed.

Commitment required from volunteers: Regular weekly commitment required for members who choose to visit a companion at the nursing home.  The Congregate House parties occur twice a semester and anyone who is part of Companions to Elders can attend.

Rough number of volunteers currently involved: 25

Helpful skill sets to participate: Be nice, patient, flexible, enthusiastic, and open-minded.  Have some experience with the elderly.

Application, training, and/or interview required?: Interview for new members required.

Documents

Companions to Elders Application (.doc) (25kb)
Companions to Elders Handbook (.doc) (40kb)