Clackamas County

SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAM Volunteers meet one-on-one with older adults, typically 1-2 times a week. Many of these individuals lack family support and feel isolated, which can harm their physical and mental health. Volunteers provide companionship, support, and a listening ear. Activities can include chatting, attending senior center events, grocery shopping, going to movies or coffee, helping with small tasks, playing games, or visiting parks and libraries. The program aims to help seniors stay safely in their homes, feel connected, and avoid moving away from familiar surroundings. This role is ideal for compassionate seniors who enjoy social interaction and want to connect with others.

This is a unique volunteer opportunity that is designed to support low-income seniors and provides a stipend for their time.  The applicant must meet all below eligibility requirements.

Volunteer Eligibility and Requirements for the SCP Program

Our Volunteers:

• Drive their own vehicle to help others.  Their own insurance is the primary, and the County is the secondary coverage.
• Use an online volunteer management system to receive mileage reimbursement of 0.625 cents/mile
• Volunteers receive a $4.00 hourly stipend
• Are paired with Senior looking for companionship, and transportation support
• Provide long term companionship for seniors in need
• Receive free drivers’ safety training that may offer discounts on auto insurance and continuous support training throughout the year

To be eligible for this volunteer position, applicants need to:

• Serve a minimum of 5 hours per week (or as much as 40)
• Be age 55 or older
• Have a limited income (200% of the federal poverty level)
• Pass a Road Test Evaluation
• Pass County background, drivers history check, fingerprinting and NSOR check (this process takes 6-8 weeks)
• Complete 4-6 hours of online County provided drivers education hours
• Complete 20+ hours of County provided onboarding training requirements, and yearly attend bi-monthly in-service days.