Volunteering with YANA
YANA, You Are Not Alone is a non-profit society that was incorporated in 2003, whose purpose it is to bring together caring volunteers and pets with lonely elderly people in long-term care facilities. Forming long-term friendships helps in improving the mental and physical well-being of these seniors. YANA volunteers with pets are especially important for people suffering from depression.
YANA volunteers, some with pets--some without, visit elderly residents who have no visitors (or few) because they have either outlived their family and friends, or they live too far away from them to visit. For this reason, YANA asks all volunteers to commit to forming long-term friendships, and visiting at least 30 minutes per week with their senior friends. In addition, a police report and TB test (or proof of a recent one) is also required. TB tests are not necessary if volunteers are under 12 years of age.
Volunteers include working adults, families with children and young people. Prospective volunteers can call or e-mail the YANA office for information and/or to make an appointment for an interview. It is necessary for YANA to obtain from you background information, personal interests, etc., to be able to make a match with a suitable facility resident. All prospective volunteers will be asked to show a photo I.D. and provide the phone numbers of two personal references.
If you wish to visit with your pet, the pet should accompany you to the interview. It will be tested for suitability at that time. Current vaccinations are required.
Becoming a YANA volunteer can be an enriching and rewarding experience for you, too. All you need to do is meet with your friend for 30 minutes or more each week, and share yourself and your pet. Your visits can include talking, walking, playing with or grooming or feeding your pet, playing cards, watching TV, reading, drawing or whatever you and your friend enjoy sharing.
To become a YANA volunteer or to learn more about YANA please call the YANA office at (250) 729-0233 or e-mail us at: YANAexec@YANASeniorsSociety.org