We also organize and run the programs found at Elder Help Peel. The Active Living Program's focus is to help the elderly feel younger. Senior’s Without Walls, includes storytelling on Mondays, fitness on Tuesdays, chats and coffees on Wednesdays, health and wellness on Thursdays, and important information and knowledge for seniors on Fridays. We also organize the Bingo Charity Events twice a month. Volunteers who applied and are fully screened and interviewed help with the success of these events. We are responsible for the outreach and marketing of Elder Help Peel, and we make volunteering within our organization possible and successful. 

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Why be a practicum student at Elder Help Peel?

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• We have a variety of departments hosting placement students

• Gain experience working with the older adult (55+) community

• Apply your program skills and knowledge in a real-world setting

• Gain experience in your program’s field

• Work with diverse cultures and a vibrant community

• Work alongside an amazing team that fosters an inclusive environment

• Elevate your organizational skills, problem-solving skills, teamwork and communication skills

LEARNER RESPONSIBILITIES

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As Elder Help Peel practicum students, we help our Senior Clients become matched with our volunteers in the Friendly Visitor program. This is a support program that helps seniors struggling with isolation and loneliness to not be so alone. Volunteers and Seniors can meet over the phone, through Zoom, or in person.

 

When doing the intake and assessment form we ask for the client’s information, which includes their name, address, and birthday. We then ask who is the caregiver or contact person, the languages the client speaks, whether the client smokes, and any medical conditions they may also suffer from. The client must have proof of two COVID-19 vaccinations, state the days and times available, and the type of visit requested.

After the client has been assessed, a volunteer who has been screened and interviewed is matched with them. The volunteer who lives closest, is the preferred gender, and speaks the same language, is generally the one chosen. The volunteer that is matched with the client is also put on a Match Form that has the client and volunteer's contact information. Volunteers have to go through an intense screening process, and not every volunteer will be interested. It starts with an interview and a vulnerable sector check level 3, which is specific to the elderly and youth. The volunteers, like the clients, require a minimum of two COVID-19 vaccinations for in-person visits.