They have been called points of light, the backbone of our country, and heroes. They are volunteers.

Eastern Agency on Aging is very proud of and grateful to the more than 700 individuals across four counties who give up their time to help someone in need. These volunteers make a tremendous difference in the lives of the senior citizens in our area.

“I am amazed at the variety of people who volunteer,” said Roberta Macko, director of volunteer services at Eastern Agency on Aging.

“There are many different levels of education, skills and interests among them,” she said. “I am also amazed at the level of commitment these dedicated people are willing to make, and in awe of the amount of hours they are eager to give.”

Macko is quick to point out, however, that any amount of time is helpful.

“I think that some people would like to volunteer but are afraid of the time commitment,” she said. “They think that if they can’t give a lot then there is no point in volunteering, but that is simply not true.”

Becoming a volunteer for Eastern Agency on Aging is a relatively simple process. First, a prospective volunteer completes an application and then chats with Macko about available opportunities, either in person or by phone.

After determining the individual’s area of interest, she refers them to the appropriate program coordinator. Those who become volunteers will receive an orientation to the agency and its programs, as well as any specific training related to their placement.

The most important qualification for becoming a volunteer at Eastern Agency on Aging is a strong desire to help an elderly person in need.

“I get so much satisfaction out of being able to help someone, and I meet a lot of very interesting people as well,” said Gary Page, a volunteer at Eastern Agency on Aging. “You end up getting a lot more from them than they do from you.”

Even though Eastern Agency on Aging has 700 volunteers, not all work at the same time. In fact, while a few programs have many hands pitching in, some are very much in need of extra help. Other agencies feel the pinch as well.

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, a program of the United Way of Eastern Maine that links individuals with volunteer opportunities at different agencies – including some for EAA – could always use more dedicated people.

For example, people who are willing to provide transportation for the elderly are in great demand.

Think about it. The last time you needed groceries or had a doctor’s appointment, you probably just got in your car. This is an activity that is easily taken for granted.

However, this simple act of independence is not an option for some people. They must rely on family and friends to drive them to medical appointments, church or shopping. While there are some agencies that provide transportation, not all elderly people qualify for these Medicaid-funded services. Some cannot afford the nominal fee, much less taxi fare.

Maine’s rural nature compounds matters. For some, doctor’s offices and hospitals are quite a distance away, and it is not always possible to find loved ones able to provide transportation.

Volunteers in the area are able to fill in. But they do more than drive. They also lessen the older person’s sense of “being a burden” to family and friends. Getting a ride from a volunteer can help foster a sense of independence. The program also can provide peace of mind to the elderly by alleviating the fear of missing appointments or running out of groceries.

“Anyone age 55 or older who is interested in becoming a volunteer driver is also eligible to join RSVP,” said Paula Burnett, volunteer services coordinator for RSVP. “Volunteers receive mileage reimbursement to and from their volunteer site, as well as supplemental accident liability insurance.”

Many people have expressed the concern that their insurance rate will increase if they transport other people. Not to worry, according to the Maine Insurance Code. It clearly states, “An insurance company cannot refuse to issue liability insurance solely because the applicant is a volunteer driver.” Nor can an agency impose a surcharge or increase rates strictly on that basis.

“Numerous other volunteer opportunities exist in the Bangor area for RSVP volunteers, and there is no cost to becoming a member,” said Cindy Whitney, volunteer services director for RSVP. “We work very hard at matching a volunteer’s interests, such as driving, with an agency that needs that type of help.”

Next week: more volunteer opportunities at Eastern Agency on Aging.

Carol Higgins is director of communications at Eastern Agency on Aging in Bangor. For more information on volunteering, call Roberta Macko at 941-2865.