Almost 400 Minnesota Senior Companions
gathered in Duluth from Sept. 24-30, 2004, to celebrate the 30th
Anniversary of the Senior Companion Program in Minnesota.
The Senior Companion Program matches
caring, energetic seniors with frail and elderly people who cannot live a
completely independent life. The three-day anniversary event provided
workshops, inspirational sessions, as well as service awards and other
recognition, for those who provide a vital link in caring for the elderly
and frail in Minnesota communities. The anniversary events were held at
The Inn on Lake Superior and in the Duluth Entertainment and Convention
Center, both in the Canal Park area.
John Pribyl, statewide director of the LSS
Senior Companion Program throughout its history in Minnesota, leads the
professional and volunteer team that helps approximately 2,500 people
across the state. The Senior Companions volunteer at least 10 hours per
week, while earning a small stipend to cover their expenses. Some Senior
Companions run errands, shop for or provide transportation to seniors who
cannot travel independently. Others help by paying bills, handling mail or
just offering an ear to otherwise isolated individuals.
"Senior Companions provide a life link for
older persons who are housebound. Often, it is a Senior Companion who
allows seniors the ability to stay in their own homes or apartments,"
Pribyl said. "If it weren't for our Senior Companions, there would be more
seniors living in Customized Living Services situations than we have today."
Based on what was shared at the
celebrations, the Senior Companions often find as much reward in their
work as those who are helped. For more information about the Senior
Companion Program, visit
www.lssmn.org/seniorcorps
