Make a difference in older adults’ lives

Are you a UM student who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of older adults? If so, consider becoming an Adult Companionship Service Provider!

The Adult Companionship Services (ACS) Directory, set to launch on April 2, aims to connect older adults and their caregivers within the UM community with students offering support through companionship services. The initiative is a collaborative effort between UM Family Resources, the Centre on Aging and the UM Age-friendly University Committee.

What is an Adult Companionship Service provider?

The responsibilities of an Adult Companionship Service Provider are:

• To provide companionship and emotional support,
• Engage in meaningful activities with clients,
• Accompany clients on outings and appointments,

Companionship services can include a variety of tasks, such as regular check-in visits and phone calls, going for a walk, playing cards, fixing light snacks or coffee. It does not include services reserved for professionals, such as lifting, dressing, and feeding.

This opportunity can be done on a voluntary basis, or as casual employment.

How the ACS directory works

The directory will serve as centralized hub for older adults or their caregivers to view services and post job opportunities. The directory will house service provider profiles, availability, contact information and any certifications they may have. Clients can choose to list a job opportunity or contact a service provider directly to initiate the process of hiring for service.

The directory is exclusively for UM students, employees, and their family members. Using their UM credentials, a student can request access to the directory for themselves (mature student) or on behalf of an older adult family member.

How to apply

The job description (posting #70165) is available on UM Connect.

If you have questions, please contact FamilyResource [at] umanitoba [dot] ca

“I encourage students to apply for this opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of older adults connected to the UM. I believe it will be a positive and rewarding experience for everyone involved,” says Francene Perehinec, Family Resource Coordinator.