Sumner Senior Volunteer Program
Nashville, TN
Innovative and Exemplary (2025):
Sumner Senior Volunteer Program, based in Nashville, Tennessee, replicates Tennesseeā€™s AmeriCorps-funded Senior Companion Program, and provides four or more hours of in-home or virtual respite per week to more than 30 families. For those families opting for virtual respite (about half of those served), tablets or chrome books and training and support in their use are provided to caregivers. Most caregivers participating in this program had previously received vouchers through the Tennessee Voucher Program but desired a higher respite dose, more consistently scheduled respite, and/or had difficulty locating a respite provider. This volunteer-provider program aims to reduce caregiver stress, improve family relationships, and enhance caregiversā€™ ability to care for their loved ones. Person- and family-centered planning, followed by volunteer-coaching in time use, and continuing check-ins with caregivers help to assure that services continue to meet family needs. The program is currently engaging in strategic planning to identify opportunities for increased caregiver-to-caregiver support. Volunteers work up to 40 hours weekly, and although recruitment has been challenging, once on-board, 100% of the 17 volunteers have continued with the program.
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