The Pennsylvania Department of Aging welcomed more than 220 volunteers and staff from 49 counties to Wind Creek Bethlehem for its first-ever three-day Aging Network Volunteer Conference, which presented information and resources to individuals who give their time and talent to deliver aging services offered by PDA through Pennsylvania’s 52 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). The conference also provided an opportunity to celebrate the work accomplished by volunteers.
“This conference is a unique forum for our volunteers to meet with their fellow volunteers from across the Commonwealth in the same program areas while engaging, recognizing and strengthening their skill sets. Our aging network couldn’t deliver the services that it does without the support of more than 11,000 volunteers. These caring individuals play a vital role in multiple programs that help older adults stay informed, healthy, independent and in their communities. A volunteer is often the friendly face and greeting that older adults associate with our programs,” said Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich.
The more than 11,000 aging network volunteers across the Commonwealth donate an estimated 156,000 hours of service a year with an estimated value of nearly $5 million. These volunteers support PDA and its services for older adults in various program areas including PA MEDI, Office of Long-Term Care Ombudsman, Pennsylvania Council on Aging, Health & Wellness, Senior Community Centers, Home-Delivered and Congregate Meals, Senior Companion, Foster Grandparent, Retired Senior Volunteer, Family Caregiver Support Programs, and Transportation Services. […]
Click here to read to the full piece. This story was originally published by PennWatch on April 16, 2024.
