Volunteer Programs
Americans over 55 have a lifetime of experience to share, and the desire to make a real difference in their world. Now they are ready to put their unique talents and expertise to work in their communities, and enrich their own lives in the process.
Senior Corps
Senior Corps connects today's over 55s with the people and organizations that need them most. The Senior Corps Volunteer programs are jointly administered through the New Mexico State Office of the Corporation for National & Community Service and the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department.
Benefits Counseling Program
Volunteers with the Benefits Counseling Program provide important advice on how senior and disabled New Mexicans might receive help paying for medical care, food or electricity. The information is presented around the state by phone, through senior centers and direct door-to-door outreach.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program provides a voice for the residents of long-term care facilities. The ombudsmen carry the wishes and complaints of the residents to the facility's management. Complaints are generally minor and can be resolved within the facility. On some occasions, however, the ombudsman can play a life-saving role by reporting the abuse, neglect or exploitation to state authorities and being directly involved in an ensuing investigation.
Foster Grandparent Program (FGP)
The Foster Grandparent Program offers meaningful part-time volunteer opportunities to persons with low incomes, aged 55 and older, who provide one-to-one supportive services to children with special or exceptional needs. Foster Grandparents receive stipends to support their volunteer work.
Senior Companion Program (SCP)
The Senior Companion Program offers part-time volunteer community service opportunities to persons with low incomes, aged 55 and older, who provide supportive one-to-one services to older adults who need help remaining independent in their own homes.
Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)
The Retired Senior Volunteer Program provides persons 55 years of age and older with volunteer opportunities that meet important community needs and of providing high quality experiences to improve the lives of the volunteers. RSVP encourages older adults to share their lifetime talents, experiences, skills and hobbies with community projects and organizations needing volunteer talent.