Good Neighbor Volunteer

About the Role

The Good Neighbor Volunteer role offers a direct way to strengthen your community and make a lasting impact right where you live. In this volunteer position, you will provide flexible, neighborly support to an individual with disabilities who is living independently.

By offering simple, non-invasive assistance, you help eliminate one of the biggest barriers to independent living, the lack of nearby informal support. Your presence helps make it possible for individuals transitioning out of nursing homes to thrive safely in their own homes. It’s a deeply rewarding opportunity to build true connection and foster community inclusion on a schedule that works for you.

Why Become a Good Neighbor Volunteer?

• • High Impact, Flexible Commitment: Make a life-changing difference for a neighbor without taking on a heavy time burden.
  • Build Meaningful Connections: Foster true friendship, combat isolation, and help a community member maintain their independence.
  • Personal Growth & Experience: Ideal for retirees, students, or community members interested in human services, advocacy, or giving back in a hands-on way.
  • Peace of Mind for Families: Serve as a reassuring local presence for someone building their independent life.

Key Responsibilities

• • Flexible On-Call Support: Lend a hand as needed with small, everyday tasks—such as helping with a quick household chore, running a light errand, making phone calls, or offering a calming presence during a minor problem.
  • Monthly In-Person Visits: Maintain regular contact with the participant (at least once per month in their home) to build trust and friendship.
  • Back-Up Support: Serve as a reliable, informal back-up when formal staff or primary caregivers are temporarily unavailable.
  • Collaborative Relationship: Support the participant according to a light, agreed-upon service plan tailored to their needs.
  • Simple Communication: Stay in touch with program staff and assist the participant with signing brief routine updates.

Who Makes a Great Volunteer?

• • Kind, dependable individuals who want to give back to their local neighborhood.
  • People who value inclusion, dignity, and independent living for individuals with disabilities.
  • Neighbors who live close by and are willing to be available for small, essential needs.
  • Respectful individuals who uphold personal boundaries, foster trust, and show up when needed.

Qualifications

• • Compassionate, reliable, and community-oriented.
  • Resides in close proximity to the participant.
  • At least 18 years of age.
  • Able to pass a standard background check.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Prior caregiving or support experience is welcome, but no specialized skills are required—just a willingness to help a neighbor!

Volunteer Details

• • Format: Flexible, on-call volunteer position with a minimum of one monthly in-person visit.
  • Scope: Informal support only; this is not a full-time, hands-on, or live-in caregiving job.
  • Guidelines: Volunteers follow standard NYAIL program protocols.

How to Become a Volunteer

If you are ready to make a real difference in a neighbor’s life or would like to learn more about the Good Neighbor program, please contact:

Lesley Kelder

Good Neighbor Program Director

LKelder@ilny.org