State Certified Ombudsman Volunteer

WE ARE CURRENTLY SEARCHING FOR COMPASSIONATE, CARING AND PATIENT VOLUNTEERS TO BECOME STATE CERTIFIED OMBUDSMEN IN LONG TERM CARE FACILITIES!!!

AgeUp, Inc. is committed to working with residents, families, facilities and stakeholders to create a community dedicated to protecting the rights of all residents living in long term care in San Mateo County. We create immediate change for residents through our hands on advocacy efforts addressing issues that range from quality of care issues to egregious abuse. Join us as we drive change in the elder care community.

Our Mission: To assure the protection of these residents through advocacy, direct intervention, and education in collaboration with service providers.

Why Volunteer? Our volunteers change lives. The moment ombudsmen walk in the door of a nursing home, things change; drowsy eyes grow bright, shy smiles appear, call bells are answered more promptly. Lonely people are greeted by someone other than a staff person perhaps for the first time in days, if not weeks. Our volunteer ombudsmen benefit, too; they often meet amazing people of great wisdom and hear remarkable stories that might otherwise be lost. Ombudsmen are committed to ensuring that residents of nursing homes receive the quality care they need and the respect they deserve. They are caring, compassionate, courageous advocates for those who cannot (or dare not) speak for themselves. We understand that not everyone has the time to devote to being a field ombudsmen. That's why our Volunteer Corps is geared for those who want to can devote one to five hours per week to help OSSMC improve the lives of seniors and the disabled who live in long-term care. Volunteer Corps members can choose from amongst a variety of marketing, fundraising, and administrative tasks.

The program does have the following requirements before the training can begin: • Be at least 18 years old • Have interest in aging community • Computer skills • Great communication and listening skills • Be patient and understanding • Must pass a criminal background check

Time Commitments: Although we're well aware that life can change suddenly and without warning, OSSMC asks that our volunteer field ombudsmen strive to commit for 15-20 hours per month (3-4 hours per week).

Training: We offer a 36 hour program which includes a combination of classroom instruction, videos, role playing as well as field visits. Offered twice a year - Spring (April/May) and Fall (Sept/Oct).