Senior Buddy Program Volunteer Role Description

Thank you for your interest in StudentsCare’s Senior Buddy Program. If selected, you will serve seniors in residential living facilities or those who are homebound by providing friendship, support, and meaningful connection to help reduce loneliness. We hope this will be a rewarding experience for you.

What You’ll Do

• Connect weekly with an assigned senior buddy through phone or video calls (up to 3 hours per week)

• Participate in in-person visits when permitted by the facility and safety guidelines

• Be matched based on shared interests, language, and availability

• Engage in conversation, relationship-building, and companionship

• Provide emotional support for seniors who may have limited family or social contact

• Help ease the effects of isolation and brighten your buddy’s week

Who Should Apply

• Compassionate, dependable students comfortable interacting with older adults

• Individuals able to work independently and exercise good judgment

• Students willing to commit consistently, as seniors come to rely on regular contact

• Applicants prepared to make this service a priority during college

• Priority given to Sophomores and Juniors who can participate for 2+ years

Program Requirements

Selected volunteers agree to:

• Commit to at least one full academic year

• Spend up to 3 hours per week connecting with their senior buddy

• Maintain reliable attendance (excessive absences may result in dismissal)

• Maintain strict confidentiality and protect the privacy of their buddy

• Complete mandatory training and submit all required paperwork

• Submit weekly visit logs to support senior well-being monitoring

• Participate in fundraising efforts that support program resources (e.g., Senior Comfort Kits)

• Review and adhere to all program policies outlined in the Senior Buddy Program Contract

Training & Support

StudentsCare prepares volunteers to serve safely and effectively through:

• Comprehensive training on working with older adults and reducing social isolation

• Guidance on empathy, communication, boundaries, and compassionate support

• Curated resources to help build meaningful connections with seniors

• Access to materials and tools through our custom mobile application

• Ongoing support from facility advisors and StudentsCare program staff

• A nationwide community of student volunteers

What You’ll Gain

• Meaningful service experience with older adults in your community

• Greater comfort and confidence communicating across generations

• Insight into aging, isolation, and compassionate care

• Deeper understanding of empathy and human connection

• The opportunity to learn from seniors’ wisdom and life experiences

• Supportive relationships with fellow volunteers

StudentsCare provides all necessary materials and ongoing guidance to help you succeed in this role.

Join us in bringing connection, comfort, and joy to seniors who need it most.