Area Agency on Aging is Seeking Volunteers for the Ombudsman Program

ETCOG’s Area Agency on Aging program has an immediate need for warm-hearted volunteers to help residents of nursing and assisted living facilities throughout East Texas to serve as Ombudsmen volunteers. Ombudsmen advocate for residents’ rights including, but not limited to, dependable and consistent care and an environment that promotes the residents’ dignity, self-determination, and communication.

Volunteer Ombudsmen also receive and investigate complaints made by, or on behalf of, residents or their families. Since many residents do not receive regular visitors or have close relatives, it may be difficult for them to enlist advocates. Ombudsmen serve as advocates for all residents, connecting them to their broader communities, affirming their rights, and assisting them in resolving concerns. 

“The residents we serve mostly want to be listened to. They want to feel heard,” said ETCOG’s Ombudsman program manager, Valerie Rushing. “We oversee 154 facilities in East Texas and encounter thousands of residents. Ombudsmen volunteers help give a voice to those who feel they don’t have a voice, and ensure they receive proper care.”

No prior experience is required to serve as a volunteer ombudsman, but volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and able to complete a free training course that consists of both classroom study and training at local nursing homes. After training, volunteers serve an internship, working one to three hours per week in their assigned facility. Hours are flexible and are determined by each volunteer. 

Virtual Training

September 6,13, & 20, 2024

9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Interested volunteers may contact the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas, at 800-442-8845 or e-mail Valerie Rushing at Valerie.Rushing@etcog.org for more information.