Silver Threads is offering a free training program for volunteers looking to help seniors in need.
Not everyone knows how to access handyDART, housing opportunities or complete the application for Canada Pension Plan. That’s when senior mentors are called on to help older adults complete forms with which they are having difficulty.
The process of acquiring documents can also be overwhelming for people with disabilities, for whom English is not their first language, or who may have recently been bereaved and are still mourning. Although many seniors use a computer, not all have access to one.
At the training, senior mentors will be provided with the tools to help those who need the service. They are trained to find information and answer questions for seniors having difficulty. This allows seniors to be independent and more secure within their community.
Referrals for volunteers come to Silver Threads from all over Greater Victoria and mentors are needed in every community.
Training takes place at the Saanich Silver Threads Centre, 286 Hampton Rd., on Sept. 10 and 11 from 9 a.m. to noon. Trainees are invited to stay for a complimentary lunch and there is plenty of free parking.
Please call 250-382-3151 for more information and to register for the program.
editor@oakbaynews.com