80-year-old is one of first to volunteer for Fulton's AmeriCorps partnership

March 4th, 2022

A new program between Fulton County’s Department of Senior Services and Americorps matches eligible, trained volunteers of all ages with local seniors 55-and up. (Photo via Pixabay)

When it comes down to it, we can all use a hand once in a while. As we get older, that “once in a while” becomes more frequent. For many seniors, that helping hand can be the one thing that keeps them independent and at home.

That’s especially important now as nursing homes and assisted living facilities face critical staffing shortages during the pandemic.

A new program between Fulton County’s Department of Senior Services and AmeriCorps hopes to make a few more of those helping hands available. The Senior Companion Program matches eligible, trained volunteers of all ages with local seniors 55-and up.

Even those that are seniors themselves.

With the energy of someone half her age, Gloria Jenkins will soon undergo training as one of the first volunteers to join Fulton’s AmeriCorps partnership. She told WABE’s “All Things Considered” host Jim Burress that at age 80, it can be hard to maintain one’s independence — but she’s been there for many other seniors who just need some companionship.

If you are interested in becoming either a volunteer or receiving these services in your home, you can complete the form here.

Lily Oppenheimer contributed to this report.