ElderBuddy
The ElderBuddy Program was created in 2003 through a unique partnership between AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals and The Family & Workplace Connection (FWC). AstraZeneca’s Irene Fick, Director of USBC Health and Community Alliances, approached FWC with the idea for a one-on-one elder visitation program. Making the program happen required specialized expertise that FWC could provide. With funding from AstraZeneca, FWC developed and continues to manage this valuable intergenerational program, that matches AstraZeneca employee volunteers with elderly people living in nearby nonprofit senior housing facilities.
Working with the management of the housing facilities, FWC identifies elders in need of companionship. Meanwhile, interested AstraZeneca volunteers receive training in program guidelines and procedures. All participants fill out an application form outlining their background, special interests and preferences, which provides the basis for the volunteer/elder matches. Once the match is made, the pair is introduced and the relationship begins.
Volunteers are encouraged to provide “friendly visits” a couple of times a month, but each relationship is unique and develops in it’s own way. The “buddies” enjoy a wide variety of activities together, such as meals, cultural events, movies, books, music, games and more. They share special interests with each other, talk about their families and teach each other new skills.
Telephone and e-mail communication, along with cards and letters, provide additional ways for the pairs to connect, particularly during busy times, bad weather or illness. Several times a year Tea Time Socials are scheduled at each of the senior facilities, providing an opportunity for all involved in the program to meet and get to know each other.
FWC maintains regular contact with all participants, providing ongoing support and guidance. Periodic Education Forums are also provided for volunteers to increase their awareness and understanding of issues that impact the elderly.
The AstraZeneca ElderBuddy Program provides The Family & Workplace Connection with a very warm and gratifying opportunity to make a difference for the elderly in our community. Everyone involved – elders, volunteers and staff, as well – benefits so much from a program like this that promotes “people helping people” in such a personal way.
Read the current issue of the ElderBuddy Newsletter!
Read previous issues of the ElderBuddy Newsletter:
Summer 2007
Spring 2007
Fall 2006
Spring 2006
Here’s what ElderBuddy participants have to say about the program:
“I’ve done a lot of volunteer work but only ElderBuddy offers me the opportunity for a one-on-one personal connection with a person who has really enriched my life. [She] helps bring focus to my life and refreshes me when I get too caught up in my work. I’m getting as much out of this program as she is—if not more. I’m very thankful to AstraZeneca for the opportunity to do something this valuable and worthwhile.”
“My 80-year-old grandmother in India is very special, the love of my life. Since I can’t be with her now, being an ElderBuddy lets me make someone else’s grandmother feel special…. It’s refreshing to talk to my buddy about larger things like world affairs. We also spend time on things as simple as watching a Saturday afternoon movie together. We laugh at the same humor. She’s thoughtful too. I’m a photographer and she alerts me to photographic sites. I even spent my birthday with her…. Older people are a blessing to be around.”
“I am 100 years old, blind, and have outlived everyone. I am so happy when my volunteer comes to visit me. I look forward to it.”
“My volunteer brings me newspapers, presents, sends me cards, and sometimes brings lunch. He is like a son. Thanks for this program.”
For more information on ElderBuddy, contact Kathy Hyde at 302-479-1696.
