Companion Volunteer

The Volunteer Companioning program is intended to assist the Pines of Sarasota Chaplain, Activities Department, and Social Service Department in caring for residents. Companions are asked to visit their resident once an week for up to an hour. The target group for companioning are those who have a higher level of need arising from loneliness, isolation, physical limitations, family or other personal problems, and basic human need to have someone to talk to and to feel that someone cares for them. Volunteer companions are trained and supervised to companion residents in whichever of the following are appropriate for and beneficial to the resident.

. "Roll and stroll," taking resident outside for fresh air, sunshine and chat

. General conversation

. Developing a bond with the resident so they can open up to the companion about whatever is troubling them

. Reading aloud to resident if they have vision limitations