SAF: VA Compassionate Contact Corps Region Volunteer-Tampa bay

Save to Favorites

This position supports the Regional SAF department. This is a 100% virtual (volunteer-from-home) opportunity. This is a community-based assignment where the volunteer will utilize a quiet, private area to provide weekly virtual conversations (using phone, tablet, computer) with homebound Veterans or inpatients who are seeking to make a connection outside of their current environment and/or to provide support and communication to the Veteran’s caregiver. Volunteers will be trained and matched with veterans for 1:1 socialization. These are friendly visits with no medical or home-care duties.

· Provide quality 1:1 social interaction, engaging Veterans in meaningful conversations

· Schedule and participate in regular telephone or video visits which may consist of conversing with the Veteran/Caregiver for a mutually agreed upon time frame (generally but not limited to 15-30 minutes) to convey support and concern

Immediately report any problems, or concerns conveyed by the Veteran and/or caregiver to the local VA Compassionate Contact Corps Coordinator who works as the liaison to the Veteran’s primary care team

Preferably, contact will take place at least once per week and may occur more as mutually agreed upon by volunteer and Veteran. 15-30 minutes per visit.

· Reliable access to resources needed to volunteer 100% virtually

· Current Red Cross volunteer

· Comfortable having conversations virtually using platforms such as Zoom, Facetime, etc. or by phone

· Sensitive to the needs of Veterans/Caregivers in stressful situations

· Empathetic and compassionate listener

· Ability to maintain privacy and confidentiality as mandated by HIPAA

· Must be willing to communicate regularly with the local Compassionate Contact Corps Coordinator

· Good people skills, excellent communication/listening skills

· Excellent phone proficiency such as a clear voice, good listening skills and compassion

· Emotionally mature, positive and service-oriented

· Ability to work independently

· Volunteer to provide own means (phone/computer) of communication

Must be over the age of 18