The Gold Key Volunteer Program provides opportunities for individuals of all ages to volunteer their time and talents to assist Older Adults throughout Isabella County. Our Volunteers are a vital part of the Commission on Aging. Around 300 registered volunteers form the backbone of our agency and provide a valuable resource to all the programs and services of the Commission on Aging.
All Gold Key Volunteers go through an orientation meeting with the Program Manager. A registration form (volunteer application) is completed. With the permission of the volunteer a national criminal background check and a check of the volunteer’s driving record is completed before receiving approval to volunteer.
If you are interested in more information about the Gold Key Volunteer Program and becoming a volunteer, you can contact the Program Manager, Kelly Lee, by email: klee@isabellacounty.org or by phone at (989)772-0748.
Gold Key Volunteer Opportunities
ActiveLiving & Activities
Active Living assistants may take pictures, interview individuals, submit articles, proofread for monthly newspaper.
Activity support volunteers may run peer-led fitness classes or music classes. Support may include assisting with before or after lunch activities such as calling Bingo.
CMU Student Activity Center
Volunteers are entry monitors check ID’s at the Student Activity Center at Central Michigan University serve as front desk attendants or assist with clerical projects. Volunteers donate two hours per week or 100 hours per year in exchange for SAC privileges during that time.
Friendly Visitor
Be a companion to an Older Adult who seeks social interaction but cannot leave the house alone. Weekly visits are tailored to the needs and interests of both the visitor and the client. Time spent with the client may vary. Activities may include reading, playing games, talking, writing letters, watching TV or crafts. Planned outings to events or shopping are encouraged when appropriate.
Helping Hands
Volunteers with home repair or building skills perform minor repairs, install 911 signs, smoke detectors, batteries. Projects improve the safety and security of homes while helping older adults maintain their independence.
Home Delivered Meal Driver
Use your own transportation to deliver lunchtime meals to homebound Older Adults one day per week. Mileage reimbursement is provided.
Kitchen Assistant
Volunteers assist in the COA kitchen helping to prepare congregate meals and pack home delivered meals. The time commitment is one day a week Monday-Friday from 8:00 am – 12:15 pm.
Meal Site Assistant
Meal site assistant helping older adult with their meal tray. Assist at one of five lunchtime meal sites in Isabella County. Prepare the kitchen for meals, and clean afterwards. Welcome participants and help them feel comfortable.
Needlecraft
Use your sewing, knitting, crocheting and craft skills to create a variety of items to distribute to all age groups at schools, service agencies, hospitals, and to individuals throughout Isabella County.
Reception Ambassador
Volunteers working the reception desk at the Commission on AgingAnswer phones and greet visitors at front desk. Refer calls to appropriate staff, take messages and answer general inquires. Assist with general office work, including routine typing. Work a four hour shift – either 8:30 to 12:30 or 12:30 to 4:30 one day per week.
Shopper
Help an Older Adult with grocery shopping weekly or biweekly. May shop alone or with the client.
Transportation Driver
Provide transportation using your own vehicle to non-emergency pre-scheduled medical appointments. Clients are Isabella County residents 60 and over who are no longer able to drive themselves. You can transport to appointments in-county, out-county or both based on your preference. The Commission on Aging Gold Key program arranges all transportation. Mileage reimbursement is available.
AARP Tax Aide
Provide income tax return preparation for seniors and low income tax payers at various sites in Isabella County during February, March, and early April. AARP Tax Assistance Program Local Coordinator will provide an IRS certification training on how to prepare federal and state income tax forms. Computers are provided.
Events & Special Projects
In addition to the previously mentioned volunteer opportunities, the Commission on Aging also participates in several other seasonal projects such as yard work, special requests, Fundraisers, events, annual golf outing, flu clinics, and Have a Heart.
Group & Students
Volunteer groups assist with pre-scheduled events or special projects.
Student internships and volunteer experience hours also available.
Medicare Part D Prescription Assistance Counselor
Provide assistance to recipients, families or caregivers. One to two day training is required. Work a four hour shift weekly. Volunteer must be available October thru December. Related experience is helpful.