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

Finanical Advocates Provide seniors assistance with their mail, correspondence, bill paying, check book balancing or other budgeting assistance under the supervision of a Care Manager. Individuals with a banking or business background or related experience are encouraged to apply Grocery Shoppers Offer weekly, bi-monthly or monthly grocery shopping services for homebound, frail or disabled seniors. Services include assisting clients with grocery lists, shopping for needed items, and assisting clients with stocking food items, if needed. While providing a vital service, shoppers also provide important socialization and companionship. For some seniors, this individual may be the only visitor they have. Friendly Visitors Provide weekly or bi-monthly home visiting to homebound or disabled seniors without family members or other support systems. 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 if there are no other friends or family members available and to provide important friendship and support. Another goal is to reduce the likelihood of elder abuse and neglect among frail, homebound seniors. Home & Garden Volunteers provide an array of services for seniors in and around their homes. These services may include: minor home repairs and installation, yard clean up, gardening, packing, organizing and more. Moving services are also offered on an as-needed basis. These services are provided to low-income seniors living alone, who have no other means of assistance. Volunteers with their own tools are encouraged to apply. "RUOK" Volunteers provide a telephone-based reassurance check for homebound and frail clients. If necessary, volunteer make follow up calls to ensure the safety of clients enrolled in Project CARE. These weekly phone calls promote increased socialization and brighten a senior’s day. ElderHelp is one of San Diego’s many Project CARE sites operating a daily phone call program. Office / Receptionist Assistants Have the opportunity to assist ElderHelp staff and programs that provide services to seniors. Opportunities include: assisting with development and event planning, assisting in the preparation of materials for health fairs or events, developing application packets and training materials, and assisting with mass mailings. Office volunteers also provide coverage when the staff receptionist is unavailable, which includes: greeting clients, answering phones and other duties as needed. Volunteer Drivers Provide transportation for seniors to medically-related or other essential appointments. Minimum commitment is 3 hours per week. Most appointments occur between Mondays through Fridays between normal business hours. Drivers select geographic service areas and register available days and times. This position requires a valid driver’s license, proof of automobile insurance coverage, background check, and a clean DMV record. Pet Pals Help care for client’s pets when they are no longer able to do so themselves. These may be one time or ongoing opportunities, depending on the client’s need. Duties include dog-walking, playtime, basic grooming and maintenance.