The Merced County Area on Aging Agency works in partnership with the community to provide protection, care, and support of families and individuals, and to promote personal responsibility and self-sufficiency.
Mission: To work in partnership with the community to provide the protection, care, and support of families and individuals, and to promote personal responsibility and self-sufficiency.
Why Volunteer With This Agency?
- Make a direct impact on seniors' lives and well-being
- Build hands-on experience in social services, healthcare, and community advocacy
- Gain leadership, communication, and empathy skills
- Flexible hours and meaningful interactions
- Great experience for resumes, grad school, or future careers in health, public service, or psychology
- Potential references if needed
Four Volunteer Programs Available
The Merced County Area on Aging Agency offers four impactful ways to serve the senior community:
1. HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program)
Purpose: Empower Medicare beneficiaries to understand their health insurance and protect their rights.
What You'll Do
- Provide one-on-one counseling on Medicare options
- Assist with billing, claims, and insurance appeals
- Advocate for seniors' healthcare rights
- Promote awareness of available resources
Requirements
- Must complete training and background check
- Basic computer literacy
- Commitment: Minimum 16 hours/month
- Attend monthly in-service trainings
- Maintain confidentiality and professionalism
Key Takeaways
- Make a difference in seniors' healthcare decisions
- Gain advocacy and communication experience
- Receive hands-on mentorship and certification training
2. Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
Purpose: Advocate for residents in nursing homes and long-term care facilities, ensuring dignity, safety, and quality of life.
What You'll Do
- Resolve complaints made by or for residents
- Educate about residents' rights and care standards
- Promote family and resident councils
- Report and address abuse, neglect, or violations
Requirements
- Must be 18+ with a valid driver's license
- Pass DOJ & FBI background checks
- Complete 36 hours of classroom training and 10 hours of internship
- Sign confidentiality and ethics agreements
- Complete 18 hours of continuing training each year
Key Takeaways
- Be the voice for residents who can't speak up
- Gain experience in advocacy, social work, and law
- Make lasting impact in long-term care facilities
3. Senior Friendship Program
Purpose: Reduce loneliness among homebound seniors through meaningful companionship and friendship.
What You'll Do
- Visit or call assigned seniors regularly
- Build ongoing relationships through conversation and empathy
- Share stories, laughter, and friendship
- Provide emotional support and encouragement
Requirements
- Background check required
- Commitment level flexible (weekly or biweekly visits/calls)
- Kindness, reliability, and good communication skills
Key Takeaways
- Combat senior isolation and loneliness
- Build meaningful intergenerational relationships
- Flexible schedule that fits your availability
4. A Matter of Balance – Volunteer Coach
Purpose: Help older adults manage concerns about falls and stay active, confident, and independent.
What You'll Do
- Co-lead small group workshops (8 sessions per class)
- Facilitate discussions and light exercise
- Encourage participants and promote positive attitudes toward aging
Requirements
- Attend 8 hours of certification training + annual 2.5-hour update
- Lead 2 classes per year
- Be enthusiastic, dependable, and comfortable leading groups
- Ability to lift up to 20 lbs and demonstrate light movement
Key Takeaways
- Leadership and facilitation experience
- Support health and wellness in the senior community
- Fun, interactive way to make a difference
How to Get Involved
Choose a program that matches your interests, complete the volunteer application, attend orientation and training, and start making an impact in the community!
(209) 354-2525
851 West 23rd Street
Merced, CA 95340
"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." — Mahatma Gandhi
