Virtual volunteers needed to assist in COVID vaccine effort

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AARP Alabama is working with 2-1-1 Connects South Central Alabama, a program of HandsOn River Region, to find virtual (at-home) volunteers who will assist callers looking for transportation to COVID-19 vaccination sites and scheduling vaccinations. Volunteers may also be asked to help callers navigate resources for basic needs in their community.

2-1-1 is known as the number to call to “Get Help or Give Help." 2-1-1 provides a first point of entry for information and referral about health and community resources for everyday needs, as well as in times of disaster. HandsOn River Region operates the 2-1-1 program, serving Montgomery and 14 surrounding counties.

Volunteer duties and responsibilities:

• Answer incoming telephone calls, collect caller data, and enter into the resource database.

• Use active listening skills to develop rapport with callers.

• Assess needs of callers and refer callers to appropriate resources.

• Schedule follow-up surveys with callers.

Volunteers need to commit a minimum of 4 hours of service weekly, Monday through Friday, scheduled between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Shifts are flexible and can be altered on a regular basis to accommodate the volunteers’ schedules. Volunteers can terminate their commitment at any time.

Volunteers will use their own computer, internet and phones. Additional equipment, like headsets, will be provided.

Some additional information from HandsOn River Region:

Where would I be training and volunteering? All volunteers will be required to go through virtual training in their homes. Volunteers will not be allowed to start taking calls until they have completed their training requirements.

Do I need prior experience? Not required. Work or volunteer experience is helpful, but not necessary. We look for individuals who display empathy, a willingness to learn, resourcefulness, and non-judgmental attitudes. Training will be provided to ensure all volunteers are prepared to handle any type of call they may receive.

Do you interview prospective volunteer trainees? Yes, this helps us get a feel for someone's attitudes and motivations related to telephone counseling and helping people in need.

Who are your volunteers? A diverse group of adults (18+) living in the state of Alabama, representing a range of occupations, interests, and backgrounds.

How often will I be expected to volunteer? 16+ hours per month with a flexible schedule.

Interested? Send an email with name, phone number, email address, and additional information to volunteer@handsonriverregion.org.

Volunteers can also sign up through the HandsOn River Region volunteer link at http://volunteer.handsonriverregion.org/need/detail/?need_id=137411