Volunteers are vital to the success of our events and programs. Volunteering for dementia programs offers a wide range of benefits, including social interaction, cognitive stimulation, sense of purpose, respite for caregivers, promotion of awareness, personal growth, relationship building, and contribution to research. It's a meaningful way to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with dementia and their families.
Volunteering for dementia programs can be incredibly beneficial for both the volunteers and the individuals affected by dementia. Here are some of the key benefits:
Social Interaction: Dementia can often lead to social isolation for individuals affected. Volunteers provide much-needed social interaction, companionship, and emotional support, which can improve the overall well-being of those with dementia.
Stimulation and Engagement: Engaging in activities and conversations with volunteers can stimulate cognitive function and memory in individuals with dementia. Volunteers can facilitate various activities such as games, crafts, music, and storytelling, which can help maintain cognitive abilities and improve mood.
Sense of Purpose and Contribution: Volunteering gives individuals with dementia a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It allows them to contribute to their community and feel valued, which can boost self-esteem and confidence.
Respite for Caregivers: Volunteering in dementia programs can provide much-needed respite for family caregivers. By engaging individuals with dementia in activities and providing companionship, volunteers allow caregivers to take a break and attend to their own needs, reducing their stress and burnout.
Promotion of Understanding and Awareness: Volunteers play a crucial role in raising awareness about dementia and reducing the stigma associated with it. By interacting with individuals with dementia in the community, volunteers help promote understanding and compassion, leading to a more inclusive society.
Current Volunteer Opportunities:
Camille’s Memory Cafe- The Memory Cafe is an opportunity for family care partners and their loved ones with mild to moderate dementia to enjoy the company of others in a safe and welcoming environment.
3rd Friday Georgetown Library 10:00 - Noon Help needed for arts, crafts, musical entertainment, check in and visiting with the families.
Respite- Dementia respite care provides temporary relief for primary caregivers of individuals living with dementia. It allows caregivers to take a break from their caregiving responsibilities while ensuring that their loved ones receive proper care and supervision. Help is needed to provide companionship, visiting, serving and/or providing noon meals on Wednesdays. Providing entertainment or other activities.
Tuesdays and/or Thursdays- 9:45- 1:00 - Carver Center for Families 1200 W 17th St, Georgetown, TX 78626
Wednesdays 9:45 - 1:00 St. John’s Methodist Church 311 E. University Avenue
Please note that we are unable to help with court-ordered Community Service hours. We appreciate your understanding.
To apply to become a volunteer, please complete the form below.
Testimonials:
" A Gift of Time has been an awesome service for my husband. The volunteers and staff for this organization are such kind and caring individuals and a Godsend for this mission of care and support. The Board of Directors are to be commended for doing such a worthy service to citizens who need help and understanding" K. Greer
"I have been so blessed to volunteer with A Gift of Time since June of 2023 and I can tell you, it's been just a joy. I have met some of my favorite people on the planet through this organization and all of the opportunities they provide" J. Workman
"As a VOLUNTEER, I have seen joy on the faces of participants as they are a safe, enjoyable environment that has activities in which they can participate. The caregivers have expressed thanks for the time to do needed tasks or have time for themselves. I am personally glad to have the opportunity to be able to support this program each week"- D. May