Ongoing commitment, 12 months or more preferred.

• Flexible days and hours. Approx 1 hour per fortnight.
• Speaking a language other than English is highly desirable but not essential
• Training is provided.

The initiative: Our 'Adopt an Older Person' initiative addresses the issues of loneliness and isolation experienced by some older people. Our increasingly fragmented society often deprives us of the inter-generational relationships that were once part of everyday life. The physical and emotional benefits to all participants of inter-generational relationships are manifested and realised in this community service.

The opportunity: If: - You are a reliable and caring person with a willingness to become friends with an older person in or near your neighbourhood\, living at home or in a residential aged care facility\, then this is the role for you. - Your listening skills and a healthy respect for others is part of your DNA. - Your nature is curious and understanding. - You may have experienced caring for a grandparent and you miss them because they live interstate or they are no longer in your life. The reward of a unique friendship around culture, language and tradition is on offer. Many of the seniors on our waiting list are from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Volunteers above the age of 18 connect 1:1 weekly or fortnightly. The aim is to build rapport over a period of time to create long-lasting friendships. The 'match' between yourself and an older person is carefully curated by a team of coordinators who have a wealth of experience. Your role is supported, you have someone to call for any questions or hurdles you may encounter. Social visits can consist of chatting, looking at photo albums, having a coffee, playing cards and gardening together. All visitors matched with an older person will need evidence of double COVID-19 vaccinations.

The reward: Becoming a friend to an older person is very rewarding - it enriches the life of a senior who is missing a sense of family and it affords a meaningful sense of being part of the community. Health rewards are well documented with volunteer work being one of the leading ways to prolong health and happiness. Be part of a movement that provides a multitude of benefits for both participants including social, emotional, cultural, and connectivity. Most importantly, the reward is a sense of belonging and knowing you are making a difference.