Volunteers needed as ‘eyes and ears’ in long-term care facilities
Those interested in becoming a volunteer ombudsman can fill out an application available online at dhad.org/elder-rights/long-term-care-ombudsman or by calling Direction Home at 800-421-7277 or 330-896-9172.
Volunteers, who will be interviewed, must be 18 or older. They also must complete a conflict of interest form. There are also restrictions if immediate family members work in or have financial interests in long-term care.
Volunteers selected to move forward must complete 16 hours of training, scheduled at their convenience and done virtually during the pandemic, and then pass a test.
Volunteers are initially assigned one facility, typically close to their homes, but eventually can take on additional facilities.
Normally, volunteers would visit facilities at least once a month — some volunteers go weekly or biweekly — to get to know residents and make observations. Facilities are not notified when volunteers are visiting.
Volunteers for Polar Express
The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR) needs your help in making the magic of Christmas come alive during this year’s Polar Express train ride.
Each year, the CVSR relies on more than 100 volunteers to make the magic happen. The largest need for volunteers is on board the train to ensure every rider has a safe trip.
For more information to volunteer: https://www.cvsr.org/polar-volunteer/