Volunteers are at the heart of PCOA’s mission, contributing their time, energy, and compassion to support older adults across Pima County. We know that their impact is immeasurable. From offering companionship and assisting with daily tasks to providing Medicare guidance and more, their dedication helps older adults maintain independence, dignity, and quality of life. Within the Neighbors Care Alliance (NCA), volunteers play a particularly vital role. Last year, NCA volunteers contributed an extraordinary 75,525 hours of service. According to the State of Arizona, each volunteer hour is valued at $33.70, translating to an incredible $2.5 million worth of support. This contribution not only makes a profound difference in the lives of those we serve but also saves Pima County a significant amount in worker hours. VOLUNTEER IMPACT
assignments. As they take on routine tasks, they free staff to handle the issues that truly require a staff member’s attention. This is the part of volunteering that rarely makes the headlines but matters enormously: capacity. National research backs up what our team sees every day. According to 2025 research from the Urban Institute, three in four nonprofit organizations say volunteers are important to their operations, and nearly a quarter are entirely dependent on them. Volunteers are not a way to cut corners. Their real value lies in amplifying an organization’s mission rather than replacing paid staff, and nonprofits with well-integrated volunteer programs report higher client satisfaction, stronger community engagement, and greater fundraising success. But the people who give that time will tell you the rewards run both directions. They walk away having learned something, having met someone, having mattered. That is the quiet truth of volunteering at PCOA. Our staff gain time and focus. Our clients gain a knowledgeable neighbor who has walked the same road. And our volunteers, in Tom’s words, keep getting more than they give. If you have ever thought about giving your time this way, we would love to hear from you. Whether you picture yourself counseling beneficiaries through Medicare, welcoming visitors at the front desk, or lending your skills behind the scenes, there is a place for you here. Visit pcoa.org to explore current volunteer opportunities and find the role that fits you best. ◆
75,525 HOURS VOLUNTEERED
$ 33.70 VALUE PER VOLUNTEER HOUR
$ 2.5M WORTH OF SUPPORT
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Through tasks like providing transportation, assisting with errands, offering companionship, and much more, our volunteers are essential to ensuring older adults can continue to live safely and with dignity in their homes. This commitment underscores the power of community and the indispensable role volunteers play in aging services. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every volunteer for making a lasting difference in the lives of thousands of older adults in our community.
July & August 2026, Never Too Late | Page 17
Pima Council on Aging
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