Companionship & Care
God made us for each other. But across central and southeastern Ohio, too many older adults face their days without the human connection that brings life meaning. Our Companionship & Care programs exist to change that, one relationship at a time.
Through four distinct programs, CSS volunteers and staff show up for isolated seniors, young people who need a mentor, and neighbors who just need to know someone is thinking of them. These are not just programs. They are relationships.
Super Neighbor
The Super Neighbor program pairs volunteers with older adults in their own neighborhoods for regular in-person visits, light assistance, and genuine companionship. Volunteers provide check-ins, conversation, and help with light daily needs. This is the kind of neighborly care that builds trust over time and helps seniors feel seen and supported rather than overlooked.
Care Calls
For seniors who are homebound or simply in need of a consistent voice on the other end of the line, Care Calls provides scheduled outreach from trained volunteers. These regular phone calls offer emotional support, a sense of routine, and an early signal when a senior may need additional help. Sometimes the most important thing we can offer is the reminder that someone is paying attention.
Senior Companion Program
The Senior Companion Program is built on a simple truth: seniors are among the most capable, generous people in any community, and they thrive when given the chance to show it. This AmeriCorps Seniors program pairs volunteers age 55 and older with fellow older adults who need companionship and support, creating relationships that benefit both.
Companions visit regularly, share activities, provide light assistance, and offer the kind of consistent human presence that no app or service can replicate. For many participants, their companion becomes one of the most important people in their week.
“My companion brightens my day. She’s like a sister.”
“This program is really, really worth it. I thank God for my companion.”
“I am having a blast with my clients. We are so happy to be matched together. I have not had one regret since I started.”
Want to Become a Senior Companion?
Senior Companions are volunteers age 55 and older who commit their time to building meaningful relationships with older adults who may be isolated or in need of additional support.
Volunteer Requirements
- Age 55 or older
- Minimum Commitment of 5 hours per week
- Reliable transportation for client visits
- Successful background check
- Completion of 20 hours of pre-service training, including a combination of onboarding and shadowing an experienced companion
Volunteer Responsibilities
Senior Companions are expected to:
- Visit assigned clients regularly
- Provide conversation, companionship, and social connection
- Participate in appropriate activities with clients
- Offer light assistance within the scope of the program
- Complete required training and ongoing program expectations
- Maintain consistent communication with CSS staff
Volunteer Benefits:
- Tax-exempt hourly stipend of $4.00
- Mileage reimbursement of $0.40 per mile or full bus fare
- Ongoing monthly training
- Scheduling flexibility
- Holidays and paid time off
- Annual volunteer recognition
Ready to become a senior companion?
To become a companion or to request a companion, please contact our Program Administrative Assistant:
Contact Kathleen Burke at (614) 857-1237
Need a Senior Companion?
The Senior Companion Program is also available for older adults who would benefit from regular companionship, social connection, and light support from a trained volunteer.
How to Request a Companion
If you or someone you care for may benefit from a Senior Companion, contact Catholic Social Services to begin the referral process. A member of the CSS team can answer questions, learn more about the individual’s needs, and explain the next steps.
Eligibility and Matching Process
CSS will work with each prospective client to determine whether the Senior Companion Program is an appropriate fit. When appropriate, the team will work to match the client with a trained companion based on availability and individual needs.
Because each match is built around a real relationship, placement may depend on volunteer availability in the client’s area.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you are interested in becoming a Senior Companion or requesting a companion for yourself or someone you care about, contact Catholic Social Services to learn more about the program and next steps.