Phone Pals Needed! Offer Companionship to Isolated Elders!

Last year, the US Surgeon General declared lonelinessa national health epidemic, saying it poses a risk as deadly as smoking...Luckily,The Southern Maine Agency on Aging is working to reduce social isolation among older adults across Southern Maine, and increase social connection. And you can join us...

...from the comfort ofyour own home, on your own schedule as aPhone Pal volunteer! Phone Pals offer weekly companionship to isolated older adults though a simple phone call! We have over 100 older adults looking for a Phone Pal match - join us today & make a difference!

Get to know The Phone Pals Program, directlyfrom a longtime pal, here!

Get to know the Phone Pals Program, in this interview with our fantastic Coordinator, here!

What skills do I need to be a Phone Pal volunteer?
Volunteers must be able to develop a sense of trust and rapport; sensitivity toward older adults and persons with disabilities and/or dementia; active listening skills; access to reliable phone service. Volunteers communicate concerns to the Phone Pal Coordinator as needed and follow protocol if recipient does not answer phone at the scheduled time.

Where & when will I make my calls?
Phone Pals call their match 1-3 times/week for about 10-30 minutes each time - the days and times of the calls are flexible! Whatever works best for you and your Phone Pal match! Make calls from your home, office - or anywhere!To build relationships, we ask for a commitment of atleast 6 months.

VIRTUAL TRAININGS: Trainings only last about an hour and are offered monthly over Zoom! There are flexible options to attend - reach out to Volunteer Services at [email protected] for upcoming dates & to sign up!

Start making a difference & combat loneliness for our older neighbors today by contacting SMAA Volunteer Services at [email protected] or 207-396-6595.