WELL, WE ARE WELL INTO THE BEAUTIFUL OHIO FALL SEASON. This month, we are going to talk again about opportunities to volunteer. Things have changed slightly, and the training requirements for Ombudsman volunteers (Certified Ombudsman Associates) have increased due to the complexity of our work. However, that shouldn’t scare any of you who are thinking about coming to volunteer with our program.
Our Ombudsman office covers 17 counties in Ohio, giving you ample opportunity to work with us—wherever you live. After a series of training sessions in the classroom and in the field, we give you the opportunity to visit one or more facilities to advocate for residents. After completing training, you are certified by the State Office of the Long Term Care Ombudsman as a “Certified Ombudsman Associate,” which gives you access to information, staff, and autonomy in your advocacy.
Training is all conducted by our local office and can even be conducted online, so you can learn in the comfort of your home. Even if you aren’t comfortable going out to facilities, you have options such as doing calls with residents or families or helping us with outreach in the community.
Many of our volunteers are retirees, but we welcome college students, interns, and nearly anyone who desires to make a positive change for consumers. Each year, we also offer in-house training on different topics relevant to Ombudsman work, including training on working with people with memory loss, successful advocacy tips, and examinations of systemic issues in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities.
Our volunteers are essential to our ability to deliver advocacy and education across our 17 counties. While our training is in-depth, it will equip you with new skills and build on your knowledge to take action for long-term-care consumers. Additionally, a strong Ombudsman office and the knowledge gained will benefit all of us as we age into needing supports and services.
Even if you aren’t sure, please give us a call to discuss opportunities and if becoming an Ombudsman might be something you would love. As always, you can reach us at 419-259-2891. We look forward to hearing from you and adding to our team of advocates.
Megan Benner Senecal is a member of the Ombudsman Office.
Becoming a volunteer with the Ombudsman program is one of the most rewarding volunteer opportunities in long-term care because it allows you to take action on behalf of consumers of long-term care to make positive change.
