Gulf Coast Village is pleased to announce the launch of a new volunteer program within its community, dedicated to enhancing the activity program for residents through volunteer engagement. The program is led by Diana Nicol, who recently joined the Gulf Coast Village team as Life Enrichment Volunteer Coordinator.<\/p>\n
Volunteers play a key role in providing an added dimension of caring, enriching the lives of the residents of Gulf Coast Village. In addition to engaging residents in new activities, volunteering also provides opportunities for seniors and volunteers to benefit mutually through newly developed intergenerational friendships and warm conversations. Gulf Coast Village volunteers will be involved in one-on-one activities, as well as the many daily programs and activities available within the community.<\/p>\n
Those interested in becoming a volunteer will complete an application packet, and a volunteer interview will be conducted in order to determine the best placement for each volunteer based on their interests and skill sets. There is no minimum number of hours required to volunteer, and Gulf Coast Village will gladly work with its volunteers\u2019 schedules and availability. Volunteers must be 14 years of age, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. School groups, church youth groups and other elementary and middle school groups can volunteer as a group for one-time events and programs when accompanied by chaperones.<\/p>\n
Long-term volunteers who volunteer on a weekly basis will undergo a screening process, which will include a background check and tuberculosis testing. Volunteers will attend a volunteer orientation session and receive a Volunteer Handbook to provide them with information. on HIPPA, safety, infection control and other pertinent policies and procedures.<\/p>\n
As the life enrichment volunteer coordinator, Nicol works to actively recruit volunteers from within the community and engage them with activities for Gulf Coast Village residents to enjoy. Nicol brings a background working with volunteers and served as the Director of Volunteers for both the American Red Cross and an addiction treatment center in Illinois, prior to moving to Florida five years ago. She is passionate about connecting members of the Southwest Florida community with senior residents in order to create a fulfilling and active environment for adults as they mature.<\/p>\n