Volunteer Visitor Connection

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Studies have shown a direct correlation between loneliness and both physical and mental well-being. The Volunteer Visitor Connection aims to enhance the quality of our clients' lives through social interaction and companionship.

The Guardianship Service Board (GSB) is appointed as the Guardian of the Person for adult residents of Franklin County, Ohio with a substantial mental impairment or developmental disability who have been declared incompetent by the Franklin County Probate Court.

Social workers provide guardianship services for GSB clients and spend much of their time during quarterly visits coordinating with service providers to ensure appropriate treatment, assisting clients in meeting their goals, and advocating for clients while making important medical decisions. This does not allow much time for social visits.

Volunteer Visitors are able to spend dedicated time getting to know clients in a social setting. Trained volunteers contribute to enhancing the clients’ quality of life by visiting regularly, building trust and reporting needs and concerns to the guardian . Volunteers may visit a client at their home setting to watch/discuss their favorite TV show, participate in organized activities, do crafts, read with them, listen to or play music together, play games, assist with light housekeeping or organizing, or meet at an outing around town.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Serve as an extension of the support system provided by the GSB.

• Serve as an extra set of eyes and ears for the guardian.

• Provide social and emotional support to clients.

• Maintain client confidentiality.

• Build a trusting relationship with the client.

• Report all volunteer visits and communicate any client needs to GSB staff.

• Complete a background check and orientation before visiting clients.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Dependable and trustworthy

• Non-judgmental and respectful

• Adaptable and willing to try new things

• Compassionate and sincere

• Experience working with vulnerable populations is a plus

• At least 18 years of age and mature

• Willing to provide one’s own transportation to and from visits

Location: All clients reside in Franklin County. Visits take place in the client’s home setting or during an outing.

Time Commitment: Volunteers are asked to make a 12 month commitment to the program, making 2-4 visits each month. Scheduling is flexible based on the schedules of both the volunteer and the client.

Interested? Contact Charity Eilerman at caeilerman@franklincountyohio.gov or by calling 614-525-2233.