Caring Companion Program, Tri-Valley Opportunity Council
Tri-Valley Opportunity Council's Caring Companion Program provides opportunities for volunteers to work with one of our most valuable resources – today’s seniors. Caring Companions are adults 50+ who help seniors live independently by assisting with grocery shopping, visiting, transportation, and other daily tasks. They are friends from the community who care. The Caring Companion Program provides client services in Clay, Kittson, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake and Roseau counties.
The Caring Companion Program is a win-win situation for all involved. The clients are able to remain living in their own homes, without the need for premature nursing home placement, and the volunteers are able to give back to their community as well as develop new friendships between the client and the companion.
A Caring Companion states, “The biggest impact has been on a 95 year old man who is unable to drive. I take him shopping at least once a week. If it were not for the Caring Companion Program, he would have to be in a nursing home in spite of the fact that he is quite healthy and active.”
A client shared, “I like my Caring Companion. She gives me the opportunity to be around people. It’s no longer a frightening experience to leave the apartment. It was hard to go out at first because I hadn’t been out in so long. One of the highlights of having a Caring Companion is that I was able to go and enjoy a meal at a local Chinese restaurant!”
Clients are referred to the Caring Companion Program via public health agencies, social service agencies, family members, Area Agency on Aging, area clinics and hospitals. Some clients refer themselves for services. Last year, Tri-Valley Senior Programs provided opportunities and activities to over 2,500 seniors to help them maintain their independent living.
If you would like more information on the Caring Companion Program or any of Tri-Valley’s Programs, visit www.tvoc.org or like us on Facebook.