Council on Aging Windsor-Essex County Council on Aging Volunteer Orientation July 2006

Council on Aging Windsor-Essex County

Council on Aging

Volunteer OrientationJuly 2006


Council on Aging The Council on Aging is located at

1168 Drouillard Road in Windsor (519) 971-9217

Office hours are from 9 am to 5 pm

Free parking is available in the side parking area of the Gino Marcus Community Centre building

(towards the back of the lot).


Council on Aging The COA was formed out of concern over the

need for communication between individuals, agencies and organizations interested in the issues of the aging and the needs of seniors.

The Council runs various programs related to seniors.

The Council is directed by a President, Board of Directors and Executive Director.


Council on Aging The COA develops, facilitates, and maintains

programs such as: Falls Prevention Education and Network, Friendly to Seniors and Community Education.

Volunteer opportunities include: public speaking, Friendly to Seniors assessors, holiday gift wrapping at Tecumseh Mall, special events, and clerical work

Volunteers for gift-wrapping are recruited as early as October


Reasons to Volunteer Helping and assisting seniors in our

community Developing skills and knowledge of seniors and senior issues Meeting new people and having

different experiences Contributing to the community Sharing skills, knowledge, and interests

with others


Volunteer Information Volunteers are needed according to

demand and opportunities available

Volunteering is typically in 2-4 hour blocks

Holiday gift-wrapping is done in 4 hour shifts

Having your own reliable method of transportation is an asset


Volunteer Responsibilities Learn about the Council on Aging

Give feedback to the organization on the effectiveness of the program

Be prompt and reliable

Accept guidance and work well with others

Stay within the bounds of volunteer responsibilities and limitations


COA Responsibilities Provide ongoing training and orientation

where appropriate Provide accurate and detailed information

e.g. scheduling, work description Provide the name of the person in charge

of each specific activity/program Provide appropriate placements based on

skills, abilities, feasibility and interests Provide feedback and have open

communication


Accountability Volunteers are accountable to the

volunteer coordinator or designate

Volunteer coordinator/designate is responsible to the Executive Director

Executive Director is responsible to the COA Board


Conduct and Demeanor Recognize seniors’ privacy and confidences

Respect varying cultural and economic backgrounds, gender or disability

Remain impartial and nonjudgmental

Remember that you are representing the COA

Be respectful, considerate and cooperative


Absence Policy In the event that a volunteer cannot

keep their commitment, they should let the responsible staff know as soon as possible so that a replacement can be arranged.

Information on who to contact and how will be provided with respect to specific volunteer activities.


Students (Gift Wrapping) Provide the COA with your contact information including

your complete address and school name

Volunteer hours will be credited

Bring your volunteer record sheet with you

Volunteer hours are scheduled, if you want more hours or need to change your scheduled time contact the COA office at (519) 971-9217 or [email protected]

Schools will be notified if students do not show up for scheduled shifts


Home Falls Risk AssessmentVolunteers will provide safety information in

an assessment/checklist format to seniors, caregivers and the general public

e.g. scatter mats, lighting, stairs, pathways and other environmental concerns

Volunteers must be 18 and over Training will be provided Police Clearance required (forms available at the COA)


Working with Staff

Volunteers are encouraged to ask questions about their assigned activities

Staff members, other volunteers, and the general public will be treated with respect

COA staff or their authorized stand-in will provide volunteers with direction and supervision


Presentation Skills Interest in promoting seniors safety

Comfortable with public speaking and dealing with the public in a positive manner

Ability to work independently

Good communication skills


Information Volunteers at the Council on Aging are

always important and very much appreciated.

For any questions, simply call us at (519) 971-9217 or e-mail at

[email protected]

Documents

Council on Aging Windsor-Essex County Council on Aging Volunteer Orientation July 2006