Agency calling for volunteers for seniors projects

Eastern Agency on Aging needs you. We have a variety of programs that are a bit short of volunteers. Whatever your talents, I’ll bet we have a spot with your name on it. If time is a problem, we can work around that, too. For instance, volunteers can work every day, once a month, or on a project-by-project basis.

“We have people who have been with us a very long time and continue to do the same thing, and some who have just started but are doing a lot of different activities,” said Roberta Macko, director of volunteer services at EAA. “We truly do have something for everyone.”

The following is a list of some of the opportunities that are available at EAA.

If brightening seniors’ days by bringing lunch to their doors appeals to you, you’re in luck. Meals for Me is looking for volunteers to do just that. The meals are prepared in Bangor and then delivered locally to elderly individuals who are homebound. Each volunteer has a route for the day and can deliver anywhere from five to 15 meals. We also offer mileage reimbursement. Friendships are quickly made between the volunteers and the seniors receiving the meals.

Meals for Me also has more than 40 community dining rooms where seniors can eat lunch with old and new friends. Volunteers are always needed to help set up, serve and clean up.

Maybe you have always been intrigued by Medicare and want to learn more. Or maybe you used to be confused by the process but now, having figured it out, you want to share your knowledge. Our Maine Medicare Education Partnership program is just the ticket. You will receive free training on how to read Medicare statements, and how to detect fraud or errors. Then you can take your newfound skills to the streets and enlighten seniors about all that is Medicare.

Are you handy with a hammer? Do you watch all the home makeover shows on TV and say to yourself, “I can do that”? Here’s your chance. Volunteers are needed for EAA’s new EAA-Z Fix-It program. If you are a handyman or a do-it-yourselfer, your talents are needed. We are covering a 25-mile radius of Bangor. There will be no cost to the volunteer, as the customer pays for all supplies. These often simple but essential tasks, such as fixing broken steps or winterizing a home, can make it possible for the elderly to remain independent and in their own homes.

But wait, there’s more. Phone Friends is an aptly named program that links volunteers with seniors who may need a little friendly companionship. This is all done by telephone. If you like chatting on the phone and would like to make some new friends, this program is for you. The senior and volunteer agree on the time and length of the call. These conversations often turn into friendships and each party looks forward to that special call. This is also a great opportunity for volunteers who wish to work at home.

If calling Bingo, playing other games, teaching crafts or even entertaining is your unique talent, think about volunteering at one of our assisted living facilities. Freese’s Assisted Living Center in downtown Bangor can always use people who enjoy working with seniors. The residents enjoy special activities as well. Let your imagination be your guide.

There you have it. Opportunities abound but if you didn’t see something that suits you, don’t be deterred. Roberta Macko has a unique talent of her own. She can tailor EAA’s needs to the desires of the volunteer. Everybody’s happy.

Again, volunteers keep this agency going, so roll up your sleeves and give us a call. You’ll be glad you did and so will we.

For information on volunteerism at Eastern Agency on Aging, call Macko at 941-2865.

Carol Higgins is director of communications at Eastern Agency on Aging. For information on EAA, call 941-2865 or log on www.eaaa.org.