WHO WE ARE

We are a volunteer program that connects active community members, 55 or older, with a meaningful service opportunity. Our volunteers support isolated homebound individuals and their families through weekly home visits, easing feelings of loneliness and helping clients remain independent in their own homes. Whether giving caregivers much-needed time off or simply offering a person to person connection, our volunteers make a difference.

Activities volunteers might participate in with their clients include a trip to the grocery store, helping read or write letters, going for a walk, playing cards, watching movies, or just visiting and enjoying the companionship of a friend. We try to match companions and clients based on shared interests and experiences to ensure a positive experience for everyone.

Senior Companion volunteers receive a tax free hourly stipend, mileage reimbursement, and other benefits. There is no charge to receive our services.

The Senior Companions Program provides meaningful retirement opportunities for volunteers over 55 years old to assist other adults and seniors who need person-to-person support because of loneliness, illness or disability.

The Senior Companions Program has been providing service opportunities by and for seniors across the United States for over 40 years. Panhandle Health District became the sponsor of our Coeur d’Alene program in 1987. Under their sponsorship, the program expanded to serve all 5 North Idaho counties.

Partnering with PHD and their Home Health services allows us to reach and educate more individuals and families in North Idaho, enabling older adults to live as independently as possible in their own home. Our program is the only one of its kind in the entire state of Idaho.

The Senior Companions Program operates under the umbrella of AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps funds several national volunteer programs. Conceived during John F. Kennedy's presidency, AmeriCorps provides Americans 55 and over with meaningful service opportunities. Grant money is distributed by AmeriCorps, earmarked for senior volunteer programs, and administered through AmeriCorps providing funding for the Senior Companions Program.