volunteerinfo

Volunteers

Volunteering -- A little time goes a long way!

Do you have a special interest, hobby or talent? Shoreham Village has many opportunities for those who want to share some time with those in our programs. We are completely dedicated to promoting the health, dignity and comfort of the individuals we serve, and volunteers are a vital component of our efforts.
Volunteer opportunities for nearly all age categories exist in our programs. Whether it's providing companionship, leading an activity, providing entertainment, or lending a hand...there is a lot you can do. The rewards of volunteering are many.

Share your skills and learn new ones, Interact with seniors,
Meet new people, Enhance your health and well being,
Give back to your community.

Volunteers make a special difference in the quality of life of seniors at Shoreham Village by giving freely of their time, skills and caring. There is no limit to what can be achieved. They interact with seniors in such activities as friendly visits, hand wax therapy, resident feeding, palliative care, socials, special events, cards, bingo, bus outings, musical entertainment, devotions, auxiliary and dog therapy. Care is taken to match volunteers with activities to ensure mutually positive experiences for all.

Whether you can give an hour a week or an hour a month, your volunteer help is appreciated.

Getting Started As A Volunteer:
One on one interview, orientation to Shoreham Village, reference and police checks.

Followed By:
Education workshop with specialized education in specific programs such as resident feeding and Palliative Care, trial placement and job shadow of activity with the option for renegotiating for another activity, on-going education, support, recognition and periodic volunteer satisfaction evaluations.

Quotes From Shoreham Village Volunteers:

"I've known a lot of residents since I was a young boy. They were always good to me. Now it's pay back time".

"My contact with residents has given me great respect for them. Their quiet resolve and wonderful sense of humor inspires me each and every visit".

VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS:

Manicures: Assist the recreation staff. It is a very satisfying program, increasing resident's self esteem through touch and sight.

Decorating: Assist the recreation staff in decorating the facility for seasons and holidays. If you have a flair for decorating and would like the opportunity to be creative, this is for you.

Resident Feeding Program: Volunteers assist residents 1 to 1 at breakfast, lunch, and supper. Training will be made available.

Dog Therapy Visits: Special dogs and their handlers visit residents on a weekly basis. Dogs must be accredited through a course (such as the St. John's Ambulance Therapy Dog Program) and enjoy mingling with seniors.

Friendly Visits: Many residents do not have family or friends and would enjoy a visit from a volunteer. We are looking for people who would be able to commit to visit and socialize with a resident once a week.

Gardening: Gardening enthusiasts are needed to assist seniors with gardening. Individuals must have an interest in gardening and enjoy being with seniors.

Social Volunteer: Volunteers assist recreation staff in an afternoon tea. You will assist with portering residents, serving, clean up, and encouraging conversation between residents.

Resident Scrapbooking: Volunteers compile life stories on residents by conducting interviews with the residents or next of kin. The individual should have interpersonal communication skills and writing skills. A genuine interest in the elderly is a must.

Snoezelen Room: Volunteers visit 1-1 with a resident in a special sensory stimulation room. This room has sounds, lights, music and most of all total relaxation for a 1-1 experience. Training is made available.

Hand Wax Therapy: Volunteers are trained in offering wax treatments to cognitive residents. It is a wonderful 1-1 interaction for volunteers and residents.

Palliative Care Volunteers: Volunteers are trained to vigil with residents who are in their last stages of life. This is a very special gift a volunteer can give to another by being there with the resident and family in a very difficult time in life.

Program Assistance: Volunteers assist the recreation staff in a large variety of programs such as bingo, crafts, sing-a-longs, entertainment, meal groups, hand wax, manicures, walks and bus outings.

Entertainment: Volunteers provide musical entertainment for residents. Do you have a special ability to play a musical instrument or sing or do you belong to a group who performs? Call us.

Students: Shoreham Village has educational opportunities for students who wish experience in a Long Term Care Facility. Many residents need a good listener and a volunteer can fill this role.

There is always a need for volunteers at Shoreham Village. If you are interested in volunteering, please call Linda Bell Monday to Friday 9:30 am- 5:30 pm l.bell@shorehamvillage.com phone 275-5631 ext 235