In addition, this department provides oversight and supervision to the Senior Companion Program, Retired and Senior Volunteer Program and the Westside Community Service Center. The RSVP provides opportunities for seniors, age 55 and older, to utilize their former work skills in useful endeavors that are mutually beneficial to the senior and the community. The Senior Companion Program provides services to homebound persons, the frail elderly, and respite services for providers of health care such as for those who care for Alzheimer patients. Senior Companions must be 60 years of age and older and physically able to provide 20 hours of service per week to serve in this program. Volunteers are paid a small stipend to offset some of the expenses of volunteering.
Companions receive in-service training one day per month.
There are approximately 65 companions enrolled at any time. The Center also provides emergency assistance in the form of food, shelter, utilities, rent, mortgage and clothing. These are all services and assistance provided on first come, first served basis to those who meet the qualifications for the various funding programs. The Recreation Division provides a wide range of recreational and social services to the community. This includes programs and services at seven community centers, playgrounds, swimming and wading pools, adult and youth sports, special interest classes and excursions.