The North Central Texas Council of Governments’ (NCTCOG) Area Agency on Aging Ombudsman Program has immediate need for warm-hearted volunteers to help residents of nursing and assisted living facilities in Denton County.
Ombudsmen advocate for residents’ rights including, but not limited to, dependable and consistent care and an environment that promotes the residents’ dignity, self-determination, and communication.
Volunteer Ombudsmen also receive and investigate complaints made by, or on behalf of, residents or their families. Since many residents do not receive regular visitors or have close relatives, it may be difficult for them to enlist advocates. Volunteer Ombudsmen serve as advocates for all residents, connecting them to their broader communities, affirming their rights, and assisting them in resolving concerns.
No prior experience is required to serve as a volunteer ombudsman, but volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and complete a free training course that consists of both classroom study and training at local nursing homes, lasting up to 34 contact hours. After training, volunteers serve an internship, working two to three hours per week in their assigned facility. Hours are flexible and are determined by each volunteer. Training begins in late August and will be held locally.
If you have two hours per week to make a difference in someone’s life, please contact Pat Borgfeldt, Area Agency on Aging, (817) 360-0984 or email [email protected] for more information.
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