Colchester, VT — Imagine the difference a friendly face, a listening ear, or a helping hand can make. For many older Vermonters, the simple gift of companionship means the world, and you can be that gift.
A TV-ready public service announcement (PSA) is also available for broadcast media. Watch and download it here: https://youtu.be/4P2R7v0p13w?si=e1AvaPgNc-YACsU6
The AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program is a statewide program inviting caring Vermonters, age 55 and older, to make giving back their second act in life. As a Senior Companion, you will do more than run errands or provide a ride, you’ll bring comfort, friendship, and hope to older neighbors who want to live safely and independently in their own homes.
Senior Companions ease loneliness, lend support with everyday tasks, and give family caregivers a much-needed break. In return, volunteers often find their own lives enriched with new friendships, a renewed sense of purpose, and even better health.
“Every visit makes a difference, sometimes it’s as simple as sharing a laugh, other times it’s helping with groceries or sorting mail,” said Erica Marks, Director of Volunteer Services at Age Well and State Director for the AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program. “Our volunteers don’t just help older Vermonters live independently. they remind them that they’re not alone.”
Clients feel the impact too. “Before my Senior Companion started visiting, I often went days without talking to anyone,” shared Mary, a Burlington resident. “Now I look forward to our time together, she brightens my week and makes me feel like I matter.”
Volunteer Benefits Include:
- $4.00/hour non-taxable stipend (does not affect benefits like 3SquaresVT or subsidized housing)
- $0.70/mile mileage reimbursement
- Flexible schedule (10–40 hours per week — you choose!)
- Monthly gatherings, ongoing training, and support
- The joy of meaningful connections and friendships that last a lifetime.
Eligibility:
- Age 55+
- Meet income guidelines (e.g., $31,300, or less for a single person, $42,300 or less for a couple)
- Able to serve at least 10 hours per week (up to 40 hours)
Available Through Vermont’s Area Agencies on Aging
The AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program is offered statewide through Vermont’s four Area Agencies on Aging. Interested volunteers can learn more or apply through any of the following:
- Age Well – www.agewellvt.org
- Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging – www.nekcouncil.org
- Senior Solutions – www.seniorsolutionsvt.org
- Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging – www.svcoa.org
If you’ve ever wanted to do something that truly matters, now is the time. Make giving back your second act. Become an AmeriCorps Senior Companion and help an older Vermonter live with dignity, independence, and joy.
Call 1-800-642-5119 today to learn how you can start changing lives, including your own.
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