Volunteers are the backbone of many Long-term Care Ombudsman Programs. With the help of volunteers, the Ombudsman program can have a regular presence in facilities and stay in touch with residents. Included are resources on recruitment, training, retention, and recognition of volunteers; materials from webinars hosted by the NORC; and volunteer management examples from Ombudsman programs around the country.
Become a Volunteer
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does a Volunteer Ombudsman Representative Do?
- Learn about the Ombudsman program, long-term care, residents’ rights, complaint investigation and resolution and more during certification training.
- Visits residents on a regular basis.
- Listens to residents’ concerns and helps them resolve their issues.
- Reports observations.
- Supports residents’ rights, privacy, and confidentiality.
- Refers urgent concerns to their supervisor.
Who Can Volunteer?
- If you are 18 years old or older, have available transportation, and possess genuine care and concern for people living in long-term care facilities, you may be able to become a volunteer Ombudsman representative. Contact the Ombudsman program in your area for more information.
What are the Benefits of Volunteering?
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Volunteers enjoy getting to know the residents they serve and benefit from making a positive impact when empowering and supporting residents. Volunteers also gain new knowledge and enhance their skills during training and performing their duties, such as:
- Effective communication skills
- Relationship building
- Complaint resolution
- Advocacy strategies
- Residents’ rights and long-term care issues
What is the Time Commitment?
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The time commitment varies based on your state. Some states require volunteers to commit six months to a year of volunteer time, spending two to three hours per week with residents that live in an assigned nursing home or assisted living facility. Initial certification training and continuing education is required.
I'm Interested. Who do I Contact?
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To volunteer, contact the Ombudsman program nearest you. When you click on the link, it will bring you to a map of the United States, click on your state for contact information.
