The Volunteers of Freunde alter Menschen

Today’s volunteers have a uniquely modern role

The motivation and spirit of the contemporary social volunteer have little in common with the 19th century’s social worker, usually dominated and directed by the church and other social institutions. Our modern organization, Freunde alter Menschen, offers, in contrast, a team approach to social services that depends on a mutual commitment of volunteers and staff members.

Our social assistance philosophy

Ex-Coordinator Lidevij Schrijver
with an elderly friend

We are dedicated to developing a family of volunteers who function with the staff as members of decision-making teams. Since organization meetings are open to all team members, participation educates and stimulates the entire group. This open discussion of experiences further exposes the volunteers to issues such as management, supervision, special needs recognition, respect, continuing education, etc., matters that further stimulate them. This approach highlights our belief in the central position of the volunteer in providing companionship to our isolated and lonely elder friends.

The importance of the volunteer to Freunde alter Menschen

Nearly all positions in the organization, from home visitor to organization manager, are filled by volunteers who work with the relatively few paid core-task staff members. This heavy proportion of volunteers at all levels indicates that any necessary operating cost or management adjustments will not effect the intensity or quality of the interaction with our clients. We believe that this structure and philosophy support a secure, future-oriented commitment to our mission.

Becoming a volunteer

During the first interview with a prospective volunteer his or her motivation and level of interest are evaluated. At this time the philosophy and practice of Freunde alter Menschen is presented. Following the interview a time for reflection will be provided to allow the prospect and the organization to test the fit and degree of commitment.

Some criteria for volunteer consideration are: a well-balanced personality, flexibility, resilience, reliability, a sense of responsibility and a team spirit.
If the fit does not seem ideal, opportunities more suited to the candidate will be offered for consideration. If there is mutual interest further interviews will be offered.

As soon as the prospect is approved, he or she is introduced to the experienced volunteers and taken on the initial home visits.

photo: staff member and volunteer from the organization

This Volunteer Integration Phase is accompanied by regular group discussions supported by experienced volunteer members, during which experiences with the weekly visit can be discussed and difficulties worked out. These sessions may suggest additional training that will be offered by the organization. Training topics may include: how to listen, how to reduce the fear of physical contact with disabilities, how to cope with sickness and death, etc. At the same time, the new volunteer becomes acquainted with other volunteers and familiar with the operation of the organization. This regular participation in team discussions is essential to an understanding of the organization and a personal contribution to the success of its mission.

In addition to direct work with the elderly there are opportunities for the volunteer to engage in other areas such a PR, the holiday program, project management, etc.

After approximately three months of this Integration Phase, a final interview takes place during which all issues are brought to the table. Following resolution of outstanding issues, the volunteer is declared a trained, active member of the organization, prepared to represent the mission to the outside world.

Temporary Volunteering

The organization encourages the participation of volunteers with a limited time availability who can contribute by being “on-call” for limited service, most often to provide transportation for the elderly to the doctor, etc. As little as 2 or 3 hours per month can still make a significant impact on the life of an isolated elderly person.