Looking for a very meaningful volunteer opportunity? Do you want to help somebody who really needs help? You are not alone and the Dale Association is currently looking for warm, caring volunteers to join us in our mission to make a positive impact on our community. Roles we need include: Classroom Assistants for Memory Minders, Dial-a-Lift Drivers, Friendly Phone Callers, and Storytime Readers for Kindergarten.
People volunteer for various reasons. The tradition has long been that volunteering is a form of charity, and the best volunteering does involve the desire to help others. It is okay to want to benefit yourself from volunteering, too. Volunteering at our Senior Centre offers more than just helping others – it’s about building meaningful relationships, reducing isolation, and sharing life experiences. Research shows that regular social interaction can slow cognitive decline and improve mental well-being. You’ll gain a perspective from decades of wisdom, and many volunteers report feeling less depressed and more socially connected after just one year of service.
We welcome people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Roles can be adapted to fit your schedule and needs.
• Classroom Assistants for Memory Minders – volunteers will help with daily activities, support memory exercises, and create a welcoming learning environment. The classroom assistants need patience, a warm personality, and a willingness to engage in activities. Memory Minders is a social day program that provides brain-stimulating activities, exercises, and socialization for adults experiencing early to mid-stage memory loss. The program recently expanded and is looking for more volunteers.
• Dial-a-Lift Drivers – drivers provide safe, reliable transportation for seniors to and from our Centre and for special outings using The Dale Association’s vans. Drivers need a valid NYS driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• Friendly Phone Callers – offer companionship by calling seniors to brighten their day. Volunteers need a kind voice and the ability to listen and talk.
• Storytime Readers for Kindergarten – Read to our Lockport school children, fostering an intergenerational connection. Readers should enjoy reading and be comfortable with kindergarten-age children.
An informative meeting about volunteer opportunities at The Dale Association is being held at 12:30 p.m. on June 29. Come learn more about roles, safety protocols, and training. Refreshments will be provided. The Dale Association is located at 33 Ontario Street, Lockport, NY. Please call 716-433-1886 to let us know you are coming. If you are interested in learning more about volunteering with The Dale Association, but cannot attend on June 29, please call or email Gretchen.doty@daleassociation.com to set up an alternate time to apply.