Home » Departments » Senior Services » AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program

AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program

How to Become a Companion

While helping to make the lives of others more pleasant, volunteers find great rewards in being involved in their community and making a difference in someone's life.

New Hampshire currently has 70 Senior Companions who visit an average of 5 elderly each week. The goal is to keep the people in their own homes as long as possible.

While helping to make the lives of others more pleasant, volunteers find great rewards in being involved in their community and making a difference in someone's life.

Volunteer to visit frail seniors for a minimum of at least 10 hours a week in your community and receive:

  • A  $3.00 stipend that is not taxed or reportable
  • Paid personal leave and holidays
  • Accident and liability insurance
  • Mileage reimbursement
  • Training opportunities
  • Recognition events
  • Friendships that last a lifetime!

Am I eligible to become a Companion? You are if...

  • You are 55 or older
  • Have an income less than $25,760 (single) or $34,840 (couple)
  • Will pass a comprehensive Criminal History Check
  • Out of pocket medical expenses may be deducted to meet eligibility standards.

One must apply to the Community Action Program in Concord at 603-225-3295. Doing good feels good. Volunteer today! For further info call 1-800-856-5525 or 603-225-3295.


Using the Companion Service

What do you and your best friend like to do when you spend a few hours together? Perhaps you spend some quiet time talking about your grandchildren, discussing the weather or reminiscing about the 'good ole days.' Senior Companions do those same things - and more when they visit the homebound elderly.

The primary purpose of the Senior Companion Program is to help isolated seniors develop relationships which encourage independence and help improve the quality of their lives. This free, federally funded program is designed for seniors ages 60 and older who may be isolated due to physical or emotional ailments.

New Hampshire currently has 70 Senior Companions who visit an average of 5 elderly each week. The goal is to keep the people in their own homes as long as possible.

What can they do for me?

  • Help with the daily tasks of living
  • Provide respite for caregivers of adults with Alzheimer's and other disabling conditions
  • Give support, and a caring person to share some time with

Do I qualify for a Companion? You do if...

  • You are 60 or older and are frail or homebound
  • You are any age with a serious disability
  • You are a caregiver of adults with Alzheimer's or other disabling conditions.

Can I trust someone I don't know? Caregivers are...

  • Continuously trained on issues that affect their clients
  • Supervised and evaluated by social service professionals
  • Fully insured and undergo a thorough background check

How do I sign up or get more info?

Just Call! We're happy to help. 1-800-856-5525