AmeriCorps and The Salvation Army Help Prepare Seniors
Do you have what it takes to help seniors prepare for the worst. The Salvation Army and AmeriCorps are looking for a few good volunteers that can roll up their sleeves and serve their community.
According to The Salvation Army’s Safe Seniors AmeriCorps Program Manager Maddie Kettner, we saw a need in the community to help prepare seniors for emergency and natural disasters. Kettner said the Salvation Army applied and received a grant from the State of Alaska. That grant, said Kettner, helped us plan a program that focused on preparing seniors for different emergency situations and a variety of natural disasters.
“We want to create a plan that helps seniors know what to do or who to call in case of an emergency. Things like getting food or medication so they can survive for five to seven days if needed.”
The program will also help the Salvation Army and AmeriCorps volunteers identify unique needs of the vulnerable senior population in area. According to Kettner, “We can learn what their needs are. Things like, do certain seniors use a cane or walker or have hearing aids.”
Kettner said the Salvation Army saw there was a need in the community and the grant enabled us to do some research and planning and get the program together. “We are hoping to have the orientation October 30th and have everybody set and ready to go.”
According to Kettner there will be a week-long orientation and training. “The volunteers are going to get disaster training, CPR and first aid. They will get cultural competency training as well as the general nuts and bolts of being an AmeriCorps volunteer.”
Initially there were four positions available but Kettner said two have been filled. “We are looking to fill two more volunteer positions.” According to Kettner the positions are full time and will be a one-year commitment.
“We're looking for energetic, dedicated and empathetic individuals to step up and serve our community.” Kettner said. “AmeriCorps members will commit to the Safe Seniors Disaster Preparedness Program to help improve the lives of seniors and folks with disabilities in our area.”
Kettner, who was also an AmeriCorps volunteer, said there are numerous benefits to volunteering with AmeriCorps. “It has been an impressive part of my resume and is a wonderful way to get your foot in the door if you want to work in the nonprofit sector.” Kettner also added becoming a volunteer with AmeriCorps puts you in a large network of alumni.
Volunteers will receive a $1,300 monthly living allowance, health coverage, valuable training and experience and $5,815 education award upon completion of service.
For more information contact Maddie Kettner at maddie.kettner@usw.salvationarmy.org
