Listen to Katherine Knoble, Manager, Volunteer and Community Engagement for Capital Caring Health, along with two Capital Caring Health volunteers, as they share their experiences and discuss why their efforts are so successful. Katherine says: “Our volunteers are not just committed to the mission…they are living it! To volunteer with Capital Caring Health: visit https://www.CapitalCaring.org or email Katherine at KKnoble@CapitalCaring.org

They Live the Mission - Interview with Katherine Knoble and Capital Caring Health Volunteers

Kelsey started volunteering in a nursing home at age 14. Now looking back, she talks about how it changed her life and her view of aging and older adults. “Being able to help people at the end of their life is an incredible gift and I am grateful to be able to have had a lasting impact on people as they have had the same effect on me.”

Kelsey - "Volunteering...100% changed my life."

Learn more about "Reading2Connect," an excellent way to connect with someone who may be living with dementia. Susan Ostrowski, Co-Creator and President, explains how this wonderful resource can enhance the quality of life for people living with dementia while providing an activity that can sustain or become a vehicle for creating meaningful relationships.
Website: https://www.reading2connect.com/

Susan Ostrowski - Co-Creater/President - Reading2Connect

Welcome to the National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers Podcast, where compassion meets connection. Join your host, Paul Falkowski, on a journey into the heart of a mission that strives to bridge the gap of loneliness in long-term care communities.

In this podcast, we explore the profound impact of loneliness, the transformative power of meaningful connections, and the inspiring stories of volunteers making a difference. Discover the hidden world of care communities, where nearly half of the 1.5 million residents seldom receive a visit, and learn how you can become a beacon of light in their lives.

Each episode delves into the emotional, physical, and societal aspects of loneliness, providing insights into the challenges faced by those living in care communities and the positive effects of companion volunteers. Hear firsthand accounts of the incredible moments that unfold when a volunteer walks through the doors – moments that transcend routine visits and become lifelines of hope.

But it's not just about the impact on residents; it's about the transformative journey of the volunteers themselves. Explore how volunteering can reshape perspectives, enhance family relationships, and inspire a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of humanity.

Whether you're a potential volunteer, a care community professional, or someone passionate about making a difference, this podcast is your gateway to understanding the vital role of companionship in the lives of those often overlooked. Together, we'll uncover the beauty of small acts of kindness and explore the research supporting the efficacy of companion volunteers in mitigating feelings of loneliness.

Join us on this compassionate journey. Visit our website at NALTCV.org for resources, training opportunities, and more information on how you can become a part of this incredible community. Because every connection we create has the power to transform a life.

Tune in, stay connected, and be a part of the National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers movement.

NALTCV Podcast Launch - November 16, 2023

Join us in an inspiring conversation as we delve into Lucy Walsh's profound journey captured in her new book, "Remember Me as Human." (Available at Amazon.com) Discover the power of authentic connections, the impact of compassionate care, and the transformative potential of person-directed approaches in long-term care. From heartfelt stories to insightful discussions on caregiving and volunteerism, this podcast explores the essence of aging well and fostering human connections in the world of compassionate care communities.

"Remember Me as Human": Lucy Walsh's New Book

Dana Litwin CVA, internationally known expert in all things volunteerism introduces the concept of Care Circles and how they can be play a crucial role in the life of your long-term care community. We discuss the what are digital care circles, how they form, and what she sees as the future of volunteering. 

The articles she refers to in the podcast can be found here:

Engage "Care Circles" article #1, Jan. 2023:
https://engagejournal.org/article/january-2023/digital-care-circles-are-they-future-volunteering 

Article #2, July 2023:
https://engagejournal.org/article/july-2023/digital-care-circles-riding-waves-change

Article #3 , Jan. 2024:
https://engagejournal.org/article/january-2024/how-implement-digital-care-circles-part-3

Together: A Guide to Creating Collective Care Circles (Emily Kenway/Naomi Allen) eBook and Sociocracy For All, to learn more about these ideas: https://www.sociocracyforall.org

Dana welcomes your feedback and comments. Email her at: dana@danalitwin.com

Dana Litwin CVA - What are Care Circles

Join us for a great interview with Evergreen Minds, Executive Director/Founder, Michelle Olson, (she/her) social gerontologist, a licensed, board certified and registered creative arts therapist, a certified dementia care consultant, a  certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional, and a Certified Forest Therapy Guide.  Michelle founded Evergreen Minds, Inc to help reimagine outdated senior living environments by removing locked doors and offering people who are living with dementia choice and access to the natural world, and opportunities to continue contributing to society.

Why Nature Matters: A Deep Dive with Michelle Olson of Evergreen Minds

Join us on 'Voices of Leadership: Empowering Volunteers in Long-Term Care with Jennifer Malone-Seixas where we dive deep into the heart of volunteerism within the walls of long-term care communities. In this podcast we sit down with Jennifer, a former nursing home owner/operator and a fervent advocate for the transformative power of volunteers. She shares stories of compassion, the challenges of fostering a volunteer-friendly environment, and the invaluable support leadership can provide to bridge the gap between loneliness and connection. Jennifer shares personal insights, inspiring examples, and practical advice for anyone looking to make a difference in the lives of those in long-term care. Whether you're a seasoned volunteer, considering stepping into this rewarding role, or leading a team in a long-term care setting, this episode sheds light on the critical impact of volunteerism and the leadership that makes it all possible. Tune in to be inspired, informed, and empowered to contribute to a world where every resident in long-term care feels valued, connected, and loved.

Voices of Leadership – Empowering Volunteers in Long-Term Care

Join Tim Anderson, esteemed Activities Consultant and Proprietor at TMWC Activity Professional Community, for a deep dive into the transformative world of volunteer training in long-term care. In this thought-provoking episode, Tim teams up with Paul to unravel the intricacies of developing impactful training programs that resonate on a human level. Together, they dissect how to craft training with a keen eye on diverse learning styles, inclusivity, and equity, integrating the latest tech and innovations along the way. The conversation culminates in a forward-looking discussion on the potential of AI in shaping the future of volunteer education. Tune in for an episode packed with insights and inspiration to empower you to make a real difference. Join us on this journey of learning and compassion where every volunteer's potential is realized.

Training Volunteers for Compassionate Care with Timothy Anderson

In this enlightening episode, Dr. Kelley and I delve into the vital role of companionship in transforming the lives of long-term care residents. Discover the profound impact authentic connections have on the mental, emotional, and overall well-being of those living in care communities. We explore the psychological and social theories that underline the importance of companionship, the heartwarming responses of residents to companion volunteers, and the innovative strategies to overcome the challenges faced by long-term care facilities in implementing these programs.

Featuring insights from experts and voices from the front lines, this podcast sheds light on the invaluable work of organizations like the National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers (NALTCV) and the dedicated individuals who contribute their time and heart to make a difference. Learn about the future of companionship programs and how technology, community integration, and personalized approaches are paving the way for a more connected and compassionate world.

Whether you’re a current volunteer, considering becoming one, or simply interested in the power of human connection, this episode is a testament to the impact of companionship in long-term care settings. Join us on a journey of empathy, connection, and transformation. Let's inspire action and spread awareness about the importance of these initiatives in creating a more inclusive society for our elders. Tune in and be part of the conversation that’s changing lives, one visit at a time.

The Power of Presence with Nancy J. Kelley, Ph.D.

This is the launch of the VolunCheerLeader podcast. Here we will discuss the need for creating "super" volunteers, that is, volunteers that are recruited, screened and trained to provide meaningful and reliable support for professional nursing home care staff. Please subscribe to the podcast to learn about workforce issues in long-term care and how volunteers and robust volunteer programs can play a critical role in supporting staff and creating a conduit to attract new workers. Welcome to VolunCheerLeader!

Launching VolunCheerLeader Podcast 180625

Welcome, Molly Wisniewski to the VolunCheerLeader podcast! Molly is the creator of "The Upside to Aging" blog. In addition, she is an experienced freelance writer with a demonstrated history of working in the public policy industry. Skilled in Nonprofit Organizations, Alzheimer's Care, Aging in Place, Program Evaluation, and Public Speaking. Strong media and communication professional with a Master’s Degree focused in Management of Aging Services from the University of Maryland Baltimore County.

Welcome Molly Wisniewski of The Upside to Aging!

Join me and Joy Rich. Joy became a nursing home volunteer in 2013. Since then she has had a profound impact on the people she visits from week-to-week. Joy was recognized by Points of Light in 2016 for creating “Color It with Joy” 

Link to Points of Light: https://www.pointsoflight.org/awards/spreading-joy-one-color-and-music-note-at-a-time/

Joy Rich Shares Her Experience as a Volunteer

Karen Kelly, Program Coordinator at Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, has over 20 years experience working in volunteer program management. She oversees the operations of a volunteer workforce of more than 300 volunteers that provide direct services to older adults. Today Karen talks about her work and the impact of COVID-19 and looking ahead. Feel free to contact her at Karen.Kelly@enoa.org

Interview with Karen Kelly

The National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers (NALTCV) is a not-for-profit organization that provides training for people who volunteer in a long-term care community. In addition, the NALTCV will seek out and promote resources and programs that support the people living in long-term care communities.

Many long-term care communities do not have the staff or resources to train the people that are volunteering in their community. The NALTCV will work to develop and make widely available a training package for people wanting to volunteer using input provided by professionals working in the field of long-term care.

In addition to providing training for volunteers, the NALTCV will develop and make available resources for the people managing volunteers in their communities, including recruiting materials, webinars, and in-person classes.

National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers

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