Senior Companion Program
The Senior Companion Program (SCP), which began in 1974, helps frail seniors and other adults maintain independence, primarily in the clients’ own home. Senior Companions serve between 15 and 40 hours a week and typically serve between two and four clients. Among other activities, they assist with daily living tasks, such as light housekeeping and cooking; provide friendship and companionship; alert doctors and family members to potential problems and provide respite to family caregivers.
Eligibility
Volunteers must be 60 years of age or over. Those who meet certain income guidelines receive a small stipend. All SCP volunteers receive accident and liability insurance and meals while on duty, reimbursement for transportation, and monthly training.
National 2008 SCP Statistics:
• Volunteers - 15,200
• Hours Served - 12 million
• Clients Served - 57,000
• Caregivers Given Respite - 8,643
• Number of Projects - 223
• Annual Federal Funding - $46.1 million
• Non-Federal Support - $32 million
Athens Area 2008 Statistics
• Volunteers – 60
• Hours - 52,588
• Clients Served – 120
• Counties Served – 4, Clarke, Barrow, Greene, Oglethorpe
• Caregivers Given Respite – 57
• Outreach – 63
• Stations – 8
• FY 2008 Stipends Paid to Senior Companion Volunteers - $165,927.30