This collaboration shows DHS' commitment to involving the community in addressing the issues and problems facing senior citizens throughout the state. Connecting Seniors to Services , a community project being piloted in four communities, focuses on increasing senior awareness of DHS services and improving on service delivery. Caseworkers work closely with seniors to make sure they are familiar with available programs and services, as well as community resources to help them be as safe and independent as possible. Training Volunteers Volunteers from the faith community who are involved in the Connecting Seniors to Services pilot receive 20 hours of training over five days. The training, facilitated by DHS, DOA, and other community providers, focuses on many agency programs and services.
Volunteers also learn about program and eligibility changes from previous years.
Volunteers said they believe that it is important for seniors to remain informed of these types of changes, which can go a long way towards easing their financial burden. In addition to joint agency training, the Central Illinois Agency on Aging provides workshops on issues of interest to seniors. The most recent training, held in Peoria and Fulton counties, drew a total of 23 volunteers. If the interest of the volunteers is any indication, the project should prove to be of tremendous value to the senior community. However, Taylor believes that more seniors need to be informed of these services.