During National Volunteer Week, this April 20-26, we take time to express our deep appreciation for the incredible volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to supporting our consumers. Volunteers are the heart of our organization, making a real difference in the lives of older adults and individuals with disabilities. Their efforts ensure that our consumers receive the care, companionship, and advocacy they need to live with dignity and independence. We are profoundly grateful for their commitment and the impact they create every day.
At Access Care Partners, we are dedicated to supporting older adults and individuals with disabilities in leading independent, dignified lives. Volunteers are essential to our mission. Whether you have a few hours a week or want to make a long-term commitment, there are meaningful ways to get involved. Explore these rewarding volunteer opportunities and see how you can make a difference in your community.
For many homebound individuals, a visit from a Meals on Wheels driver is more than just food delivery—it’s a lifeline to social connection and safety. Many of our consumers are isolated and may not see anyone else during the day, making the brief interaction with a driver an essential source of companionship. Meals on Wheels is not just about nourishment; it’s about fostering relationships and ensuring well-being.
Volunteer drivers contribute by:
Meal routes are typically scheduled for weekday mornings and take about two hours to complete. Flexible schedules are available so volunteers can choose the days that work best for them. Volunteers use their own vehicles, and Access Care Partners provides thorough training and support to ensure a smooth experience. A valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and a compassionate heart are the main requirements for becoming a Meals on Wheels driver.
Beyond delivering meals, drivers build meaningful connections with the consumers they serve. Over time, a volunteer driver may become a trusted person to someone who looks forward to their visits every day. This program not only fights hunger but also combats loneliness and provides a vital safety net for those who may need extra care. The simple act of delivering a meal can brighten someone’s day and reassure families that their loved ones are being checked on regularly.
At Access Care Partners, we believe every long-term resident deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Our Long-term Care Ombudsman program empowers volunteers to advocate for the rights and well-being of nursing home residents, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed.
What is a Long-Term Care Ombudsman? A Long-Term Care Ombudsman is a specially trained advocate who helps nursing home residents and their families resolve concerns about care, quality of life, and their rights. Ombudsmen are the trusted intermediaries between residents, their families, and the facility, offering confidential assistance with issues such as:
Comprehensive Training and Support. No prior experience is necessary to become an Ombudsman. The MA Executive Office of Health and Human Services provides all the training you’ll need, where you’ll learn:
Training sessions are virtual and run 4 hours 1 day per week for 6 weeks. You’ll also have ongoing support from Access Care Partners staff and other experienced volunteers.
Volunteer Commitment: Just 2 Hours a Week. We ask for a volunteer commitment of two hours per week—time spent visiting nursing homes in your community, listening to residents, and assisting with their concerns. Whether it’s making sure a resident’s voice is heard or resolving a small issue that improves their day-to-day life, your time as a volunteer will make a lasting difference.
Managing finances can be challenging, especially for older adults or individuals with disabilities. Our Money Management Program pairs volunteers with consumers who need help budgeting, organizing and paying bills, balancing their checkbooks, and avoiding financial fraud. Many individuals live on fixed incomes, making careful budgeting essential to their financial well-being.
As a Money Management volunteer, you will:
This role requires reliability, attention to detail, and a commitment to confidentiality. Volunteers play a crucial role in helping consumers maintain financial security and independence, reducing stress, and ensuring peace of mind. By assisting with these financial tasks, volunteers help prevent financial hardship and allow consumers to focus on maintaining their quality of life.
If you are passionate about shaping the future of aging and disability services, consider joining our Board of Directors or Citizen’s Advisory Council. These leadership roles provide opportunities to:
Board Members and Advisory Council participants play a crucial role in ensuring our organization continues to meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve.
Whether you choose to deliver meals, assist with finances, advocate for residents, or provide leadership, your time and effort will have a lasting impact.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our volunteers. Your dedication, kindness, and generosity enrich the lives of our consumers and strengthen our community. Thank you for making a difference!
Are you ready to volunteer? Contact us today to learn more about these opportunities and how you can get involved. Together, we can create a stronger, more caring community for all.
Access Care Partners is a private, non-profit agency founded in 1974 which is funded in parts by grants and contracts from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) and the federal Administration for Community Living. We are part of a network of Aging Services Access Points and Area Agencies on Aging.
© 2025 Access Care Partner, Inc. All rights reserved.
