Volunteers are needed to assist seniors through the People Inc., Center for Elder Law & Justice, and the New York State Long Term Care Ombudsman Program. Volunteers, called ombudsmen, play an important role by advocating and promoting the rights of residents who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities in Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties. Ombudsmen are a trusted advocate for the elderly and provide problem-solving skills. Phone screenings are now available to review eligibility to join the program’s upcoming training sessions.

Ombudsmen volunteers explore, resolve and/or refer complaints. Opportunities are available for those who work in professional fields, such as paralegals, human service staff, social workers and business professionals. Many volunteers are also recent retirees, ranging from those who have worked within education systems, administration to engineering fields. Schedules are flexible with a minimum of two hours per week. 

If enrolled into the program, there are two training locations available, one in Amherst and the other Silver Creek. Volunteers need to attend all six sessions, which will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on the following dates: May 9, 10, 11, 30, 31 and June 1.

People Inc. provides comprehensive training and ongoing support for ombudsmen. To be screened and to learn more about the training sessions and its location, call 716.817.9222. 

People Inc. provides programs and services to more than 12,500 people with special needs, their families and seniors throughout Western New York and Rochester. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. To learn more, visit people-inc.org. Like us on Facebook at People Inc. and follow us on Twitter @PeopleIncNews.