Volunteers needed at the new GPL

By Cecilia Nasmith

Looking ahead to a new location – with 180 beds, up from 151 – the new Golden Plough Lodge is preparing on a number of fronts, one of which is volunteer recruitment.

“Volunteers play an important role in making the Golden Plough Lodge feel like home,” Administrator Alanna Clark said in the press release.

“As we prepare to move to our new space, volunteers will help shape the resident experience by building connections with residents, supporting activities, and ensuring residents have friendly faces to welcome and assist them when they need support.”

Potential volunteer opportunities include:

Greeter and guide – Welcoming people and helping them find their way in the new building.

Escorting residents – Accompanying them to and from activities.

Recreational activity support – Assisting with programs like bingo, crafts, fitness and exercise, movie nights, gardening and social events.

Cafe operations – Supporting the operations of the resident-and-family cafe.

Spiritual activities – Assisting with worship, singing and art.

Friendly visits – Offering friendly conversation, playing games and reading books with residents.

Mealtime assistance – Helping to feed residents and providing social interaction during mealtimes.

Technology assistance – Helping residents with their computers, tablets and phones to connect with loved ones or access entertainment.

This opportunity is open to anyone interested in making a difference and gaining volunteer experience, including high-school students seeking volunteer hours.

To be approved, volunteers will be required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Police Record Check and a tuberculosis test, Orientation and training will be provided to successful applicants.

To start the process, visit Northumberland.ca/GPL