Older Adult Peer Counseling Volunteer  

About Peninsula Family Service

Founded in 1950, Peninsula Family Service is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children, families, and older adults realize their full potential. As one of the region’s leading providers of early learning, financial empowerment, employment, and older adult support services, PFS serves communities across San Mateo County with compassion, dignity, and respect.

At PFS, our values guide how we serve our community and work together as a team. We expect every team member and volunteer to demonstrate Ownership, Proactive Engagement, Continuous Learning, Adaptability, and a deep commitment to community-centered service.

Position Summary

Peninsula Family Service is seeking compassionate and dependable Older Adult Peer Counseling Volunteers to provide emotional support and meaningful connection to older adults in San Mateo County through our Peer Counseling Program.

Peer Counseling is a one-on-one support program designed to help older adults experiencing loneliness, grief, depression, isolation, loss, or major life transitions. Trained volunteers offer confidential, non-judgmental support that helps participants feel heard, valued, and connected.

This is a meaningful volunteer opportunity for individuals who want to make a direct impact in their community while receiving professional training and ongoing support.

What You’ll Do

• Provide compassionate emotional support to older adults through weekly one-on-one conversations
• Build trusting and supportive relationships with assigned participants
• Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Participate in initial volunteer training and ongoing monthly support meetings
• Communicate regularly with program staff regarding participant needs or concerns
• Offer support in person, by phone, or virtually depending on participant preference and program needs
• Help reduce isolation and improve emotional well-being for older adults in the community

Qualifications

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• 55 years of age or older
• Caring, empathetic, and compassionate
• Strong listeners with good interpersonal communication skills
• Interested in supporting older adults and strengthening community connection
• Reliable and able to commit to approximately one hour of volunteer service per week
• Able to attend monthly volunteer meetings and complete required training
• Able to commit to the program for at least one year

Training & Support

All volunteers receive free training and ongoing professional support from Peninsula Family Service staff. Training covers active listening, communication skills, boundaries, aging-related issues, and crisis response protocols.

Support is available for diverse communities including African American, LGBTQIA+, Cantonese, Mandarin, Spanish, and Tagalog-speaking older adults.

Time Commitment

• Approximately 1+ hour per week with assigned participant
• Monthly volunteer support meetings
• One-year commitment preferred
• Virtual participation is welcomed

Location

Services are provided throughout San Mateo County and may be conducted:

• In person
• By phone
• Virtually

Why Volunteer with PFS?

• Make a meaningful difference in someone’s life
• Help reduce loneliness and isolation among older adults
• Receive professional training and mentorship
• Join a mission-driven nonprofit serving the community for over 75 years
• Build connections and strengthen your own sense of purpose and community

How to Apply

Peninsula Family Service

Email: qgilliam@pfso.org

Phone: 650-403-4300 x4322