Volunteerism has been called the backbone of our country. How true.

Eastern Area Agency on Aging has a variety of volunteer opportunities throughout our four counties. Wherever you live – there is an opportunity for you.

EAAA’s mission is to help older persons live independently and happily, but we can’t do it alone. We need the support of dedicated individuals who enjoy working with seniors.

The time commitment you make is completely up to you. We have no minimum. Join up for a long term, on going assignment, or if you prefer, work on a one-time special project. Whatever time you can spend with us is appreciated.

We have specific areas of opportunities. However, if you have a special talent or skill that is not listed, call us. We will create an opportunity for you. We are eager for you to share your gift of time with us.

Our volunteer opportunities are listed below by program: Please see the Volunteer Application page to apply.

 

Meals for ME

Meals for ME, the nutrition program of Eastern Area Agency on Aging, has several areas where people can volunteer.

The home delivery part of the program needs people to deliver hot, noontime meals to homebound elderly. Time involved is approximately 1 – 1 ½ hours. You will get a “route sheet” and you just pick up the food at the kitchen, and deliver it the people on the list. Mileage reimbursement is available.

Meals for ME also needs volunteers to help in the community dining rooms. These duties involve assisting with setting up, serving and cleaning up. The time requirement is also about an hour.

If you are unable to commit to a regular position then “subbing” might be just the thing for you. Occasionally, substitutes are needed to fill - in for the delivery drivers and dining room helpers.

And of course we are always looking for people to spread the word about our program and to help recruit volunteers and patrons for community dining rooms.

 

Assisted Living

Our Assisted Living program needs volunteers to work with staff in helping to organize events for the residents. There are three facilities from which to choose.

Freeses in Bangor, Merry Gardens in Camden, and Stearns in Millinocket.

We’re looking for people who can do the following things, however let your imagination be your guide:

The residents appreciate time shared with them.

 

SMP – Senior Medicare Patrol

SMP needs volunteers who, after being specially trained on the ins and outs of Medicare, will take this knowledge to the community.

This program helps Medicare consumers learn how to read and understand their Medicare statements and how to spot errors or possible fraud.

The volunteers will work one-on-one with seniors or people with disabilities as well as speaking to groups. They may also distribute information out in the community to seniors and their families. Training and speaking materials are provided.

SHIP below, has similar opportunities:

 

State Health Insurance Assistance Program

It is the goal of the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to provide people with solid education on various health insurances so they can make informed decisions.

This includes such  programs as Medicare, MaineCare, Medigap policies, long term care insurance and the new Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit, also known as, Medicare, Part D.

Training is provided.

There are a variety of volunteer opportunities with SHIP, such as:

Eaa-Z Fit It is a minor home repair program for seniors. Older folks often are unable to do these minor repair or maintenance chores anymore.   

Call us if you are a do-it-yourself type who is adept at things such as:

If you like getting your hands dirty for a good cause, this is a volunteer opportunity for you.

We also need someone who can assist the Eaa-Z Fix It coordinator with the development of a data base of contractors.

Any materials needed are paid for by the client.

 

Emergency Preparedness

Would you like to help seniors identify and prepare for everyday emergencies that may impact their lives?

The PrepareMe program has several volunteer options. We strive to connect volunteers to the assignment that best fits their interests and personalities.

Opportunities in the PrepareMe program include:

• Presenting or distributing information and helpful tips to senior groups, instruction in putting together both home and vehicle emergency kits, fire safety and developing home escape plans, and making a plan for independence.
• Helping search for and identifying possible presentation sites, such as to senior groups.
• Promoting PrepareMe through informational mailers, community events and brochure distribution.
• Separating and packaging donated supplies into small emergency kits for distribution to seniors.

Raising funds your specialty? PrepareMe welcomes your ideas and assistance.

Also needed:

Items for starter emergency kits, such as:
• flashlights, water proof matches,
• heat packs for hands and feet,
• toothbrushes and toothpaste,
• Refreshments to serve at presentations are always appreciated.

 

Other opportunities that may be of interest

We need volunteers to assist with this fall prevention program. Volunteer coaches conduct the classes which run two hours each, for eight weeks. Training is provided. The program’s goal is to reduce falls by looking at risk factors, increasing confidence and improving strength.

Matter of Health 

We need volunteers to facilitate walking groups at senior housing, Meals for ME sites and other suitable locations.

 

CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT A VOLUNTEER APPLICATION