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Volunteer

We invite you to join over 350 San Diego volunteers who assist seniors so they may remain independent in their own homes for as long as possible. Many are alone without families to help. By breaking this isolation, seniors in their later years experience a higher level of safety, security, and an increased sense of value within their community.

For just a few hours each month volunteers can visit with seniors, grocery shop for homebound seniors, help with mail or bill paying, escort a senior needing assistance to their doctor or other important appointments, provide occasional handyman or gardening assistance. See a complete and detailed list of all Volunteer Opportunities.

Getting started is easy!

Read over the Volunteer Eligibility Requirements then download the Volunteer Application. After reviewing the Volunteer Application, RSVP for an upcoming orientation by sending an email to volunteers@elderhelpofsandiego.org. The orientation is two hours and the interview is about a half hour (by appointment). You can view upcoming orientation dates by clicking here.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be 18 years of age
  • Must attend a three hour orientation, followed by a one hour personal interview
  • Must provide three non-related references
  • Must complete a background check and sign Declaration of Non-Criminal background

For more information regarding volunteer opportunities at ElderHelp, please contact Carrie McClellan at 619-284-9281 ext. 128

Volunteer Opportunities

ElderHelp has worked for over three decades to meet the needs of San Diego seniors aided by a team of dedicated volunteers, from all walks of life. Working in full partnership with ElderHelp staff, volunteers provide services that enhance the quality of life for a senior.

Urgent Need for Volunteer Drivers!

Sign up now!

Make an impact in a senior’s life – become a Volunteer Driver! Caring, compassionate individuals needed right now to transport seniors safely to and from their medical appointments and other essential functions. Mileage reimbursement is available. Have questions? See our Volunteer Driver FAQ.

Application

Download our Volunteer Application here. At this time we are actively recruiting volunteers for all positions, including East County.

Volunteer Information Center

Current ElderHelp Volunteers can log in here to report their hours, change their contact information and much more.

Volunteer Drivers

ElderHelp volunteer drivers can log in here to view and select rides, report their hours and mileage, and much more.

Flyer

An easy way to volunteer is to download our Volunteer Recruitment Flyer and put it up in your community.

Opportunities

Volunteer Drivers

Provide transportation for seniors to medically-related or other essential appointments. It is required to complete a DMV check. Drivers have the flexibility to select the geographic service areas and appointment times that fit into their own schedule.

Financial Advocates

Provide seniors assistance with their mail, correspondence, bill paying, check book balancing or other budgeting assistance. Individuals with a banking or business background or related experience are encouraged to apply.

Grocery Shoppers

Assist members with grocery lists, shopping for needed items, and stocking food items, if needed. While providing a vital service, shoppers also provide important socialization and companionship.

Friendly Visitors

Friendly visitors offer companionship and conversation. They may participate in activities of mutual interest, such as going for a walk or accompanying them for lunch. The goal is to reduce loneliness and isolation, provide important friendship and support, as well as to reduce the likelihood of elder abuse and neglect among frail, homebound seniors.For some seniors, this individual may be the only visitor they have.

Home and Garden

Volunteers provide an array of services for seniors in and around their homes. These services may include: safety home inspections, minor home repairs, safety equipment installation (grab bars, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, etc.), yard clean up, gardening, organizing and more. This volunteer role is vital to reducing fall risks and maintaining a safe home environment.

Tidykeepers

Assist seniors by tidying up common areas of the home, while providing socialization. Tasks may include sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, cleaning countertops, window washing, storing and organizing items.