Senior Companion Program
Volunteers needed to reduce isolation for older adults … Eligible* Volunteers receive: • $4.00/hr. tax-exempt stipend • Mileage reimbursement • Paid holidays • Accrued paid time off • Supplemental auto insurance • Samsung tablet while serving • Tablet training * Volunteers 55 and older who can serve a minimum of 15 hours a week, must income qualify and pass a background check For more information, call PCOA (520) 305-3453
Senior Companions: Fostering Friendship & Community Engagement Meet Bruno Loya, a 96 year old Navy Veteran, who
stays active by going on daily walks outdoors when the weather allows, and indoors when it doesn’t. Mr. Loya was connected to the Senior Companion Program through the VA Hospital, one of PCOA’s contracted partners. Senior Companion volunteer of 14 years and Navy Veteran, Jose Hernandez, was matched with Mr. Loya by the VA just over a year ago and they formed a great friendship. During one of his weekly visits with Mr. Loya, Jose suggested he try a new hobby and brought a model airplane
they could paint and assemble. It was then Mr. Loya decided he enjoyed coloring and painting and would like to do more of it. A family friend gifted him an art set
to help him pursue this interest. Mr. Loya’s home is now decorated with the many wooden frames, signs, & figures he has spent hours painting and coloring. Some pieces are very personal and are used to frame his favorite photos. He is grateful for the opportunity to spend time doing something that brings him joy and he would like to give back to the community by selling some of his work to raise funds for the Veterans Fisher House Foundation. With the support and encouragement of his family and his Senior Companion, Mr. Loya has a friend, a new hobby, and the opportunity to give back to his local community.
20 VOLUNTEER POSITIONS CURRENTLY OPEN Please consider giving your time and friendship. Would you like to help an older adult feel more connected to their community by offering your time and friendship as a Senior Companion volunteer? For more information about volunteering, call (520) 305-3453.
If you would like to serve your community and be a lifeline to homebound older adults, please call (520) 305-3453 to learn more about becoming a Senior Companion Volunteer!
Page 26 | May 2023, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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