Volunteer – Life Enrichment & Resident EngagementAt — Seacrest Village Retirement Communities
Seacrest Village Retirement Communities is seeking students interested in gaining hands-on experience working with older adults in a senior living community. Volunteers will work closely with Life Enrichment staff to enhance the quality of life for residents through meaningful engagement, social connection, and activity support. Responsibilities may include assisting with group activities, games, arts and crafts, special events, educational programs, and one-on-one resident visits. Students will have the opportunity to build relationships with residents, learn about the aging process, develop communication and interpersonal skills, and contribute to a vibrant community environment. This opportunity is ideal for students interested in healthcare, social services, psychology, gerontology, recreation therapy, nursing, education, nonprofit management, or community engagement. Volunteers will receive guidance and mentorship from staff while gaining valuable experience serving older adults in Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing settings.
Students participating in this Field Experience Volunteer opportunity will gain valuable hands-on experience working within a senior living community while making a meaningful difference in the lives of older adults. Through direct interaction with residents and collaboration with Life Enrichment staff, students will develop a greater understanding of aging, resident engagement, and the importance of social connection in promoting overall well-being and quality of life. By the end of the experience, students may acquire and strengthen the following knowledge and skills: • Effective communication and active listening skills • Relationship-building and interpersonal skills • Empathy, compassion, and emotional intelligence • Understanding of the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional aspects of aging • Teamwork and collaboration with professional staff • Leadership, initiative, and problem-solving skills • Professionalism, responsibility, and time management • Adaptability and confidence in working with diverse populations • Program planning and activity facilitation skills • Observation and engagement techniques for individuals with varying levels of independence and cognitive ability • An appreciation for intergenerational relationships, volunteerism, and community service Depending on community needs and student interests, volunteers may assist with group activities, special events, games, arts and crafts, educational programs, resident visits, technology assistance, pet visits, fitness and wellness programs, and other Life Enrichment initiatives. This opportunity is particularly beneficial for students interested in healthcare, nursing, social work, psychology, gerontology, recreation therapy, education, nonprofit leadership, human services, and other helping professions. Most importantly, students will have the opportunity to learn from residents' life experiences, develop meaningful relationships, and contribute to creating a vibrant and engaging community environment.
Students will receive an orientation to Seacrest Village Retirement Communities and the specific volunteer role they will be performing. Training is provided by the Volunteer Liaison and/or designated staff members prior to the start of service. Training may include: • Overview of Seacrest Village and its resident population • Expectations and responsibilities of the volunteer role • Professional communication and interaction with older adults • Resident privacy, confidentiality, and appropriate boundaries • Safety procedures and emergency protocols • Introduction to the specific building(s) and residents being served • Guidance on supporting Life Enrichment programs and activities • Activity-specific training, as applicable • Ongoing supervision, mentoring, and feedback from staff The length of training varies depending on the volunteer assignment but typically includes an initial orientation session followed by hands-on training and guidance from staff within the assigned department. Students will work with older adults, including residents in Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing settings. Seacrest Village provides training related to resident needs, engagement techniques, and appropriate interactions with older adults. Mandated Reporter training is not currently required or provided as part of this volunteer opportunity.
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Student already selected for this position.
| Hours | Duration |
|---|---|
| 90 | hours per placement |