VIEWS attracts volunteers age 55 and older who are interested in giving back to the community.
Volunteers commit to volunteering at least 4 hours a week (including travel and supervision time) for a minimum of 6 months, within their own communities. Our fifty (50) hour training prepares volunteers to become senior peer counselors. This training gives volunteers the tools they need to use their own life experiences to benefit others.
A Volunteer Opportunity
Training topics include:
• Aging and mental health issues
• Counseling and communication skills
• Principles of healthy aging
• Depression and anxiety as an older adult
• Community resources
Previous counseling experience is not necessary; we provide all of the training and supervision necessary to effectively help others. Staff mental health specialists screen all clients in their homes and work with the volunteer in planning counseling sessions.
Volunteers enjoy the opportunity to:
• Learn new skills
• Make meaningful connections with other volunteers
• Contribute positively to the community and the lives of others
We have volunteer opportunities for people of all ages.
Senior Peer Counselors (ages 55+)
Senior Peer Counselors provide emotional support to individuals or facilitate small groups of seniors. Your life experience and our fifty hour training prepare volunteers age 55+ for this work. Staff mental health professionals screen each potential client prior to being matched with a volunteer or group. Professionals also provide monthly education and support as well as being available for consultation whenever needed. VIEWS volunteers always have professional backup to help them with this work.
Other volunteer opportunities (ages 18+)
VIEWS is able to provide important services to seniors because of the valuable work of volunteers who help with our infrastructure. Volunteers of all ages assist with publicity, graphic design, writing, organizational development, research, fundraising, and grant writing. The VIEWS Guild is a volunteer-driving group that supports the work of VIEWS by connecting with our larger community, reaching new volunteers, clients and donors.
Contact our Volunteer Coordinator,
Melissa Mead (503-261-6175), melissa.mead@cascadiabhc.org
to talk about current volunteer opportunities.
Volunteers agree to maintain client confidentiality and the highest ethical standards. Volunteers commit to compassion, sensitivity and tolerance in attitude and behavior toward program clients.