WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT IS ALREADY 2022. The last two years have been like a blur but also feel like they have lasted for 20 years. It is hard to believe all the changes and challenges that have become part of our daily lives. No change is more apparent than those changes felt and seen by the residents of our long-term-care communities.
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I am again going to talk to you about opportunities to volunteer with the Ombudsman program. With our recent expansion, we now cover 17 counties in Ohio. With that added territory comes an added need for dedicated individuals who want a non-traditional volunteer experience.
Our volunteer experience is non-traditional, but it also provides you the opportunity to make actionable change. As a volunteer with the Ombudsman program, you will receive the in-depth training to prepare you for all the different challenges that might be presented to you when you begin your advocacy for long-term-care consumers. We are also dedicated to your growth as an advocate. After you complete your initial training, you become a Certified Ombudsman Associate. After you’ve been certified, we take the time to provide guidance, continuing education opportunities, and even appreciation events to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to you and your valuable contribution to our program and our consumers.
While at first glance the training requirements and training process may seem daunting, at the end of the day we are providing you with skills and knowledge that is not only useful for you as an advocate, but also for you as an individual.
I remember being overwhelmed as I began my training to become an Ombudsman, but as I sat back and thought about even just one of the hundreds of residents I have gotten to meet, I can safely say it has all been worth it!
Please, if your New Year’s resolution is to make a difference—or to become more active in your community—consider reaching out to our Volunteer Coordinators about what opportunities we can provide. As always, for more information on volunteering or to discuss long-term-care questions and concerns, please reach out at 419-259-2891.
Megan Benner Senecal is a member of the Ombudsman Office.
