The Area Agency on Aging is looking for people to provide social support to older adults in Maricopa County.

Since 2010, the organization has engaged AmeriCorps members to meet the unmet needs of older adults living in Maricopa County. The Agency’s AmeriCorps program is especially unique. As an Encore program, it recruits only individuals 55 and older to serve. The “Seniors Serving Seniors” model benefits clients who like working with someone from their same age group. It also benefits the AmeriCorps members as many older adults are now retired and looking for meaningful ways to give back to their community.

Members receive a monthly stipend and commit to serving approximately 10-15 hours per week. They are eligible for an education award, which can be gifted to a child or grandchild. For many older adults on a low to moderate income, this additional stipend is a great help.

Area Agency’s current AmeriCorps program, Caring Circles, is looking for more members to provide social support to older adults in Maricopa County through visits, telephone check-in, grocery shopping, prescription pick-up, transportation to medical appointments and assisting with technology to reduce social isolation. Members also participate in national days of service such as September 11 and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Those interested in joining the Area Agency on Aging AmeriCorps team may call 602-283-5704 or visit www.aaaphx.org for more information.