Creating the Volun-Cheer Force explores the power of authentic human connection in long-term care communities and challenges us to rethink the role volunteers can play in combating loneliness, strengthening community, and protecting dignity.
Long before loneliness and social isolation became part of the national conversation, this book examined how companion volunteers can help people living in long-term care communities feel seen, heard, remembered, and valued.
The themes explored in this book continue to shape the mission and vision of the National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers.
Purchase Through BookBabyConversations about loneliness, social connection, and aging are happening across the country. Yet many people living in long-term care communities experience profound isolation and separation from the relationships and communities they once knew.
Creating the Volun-Cheer Force argues that volunteers are far more than helpers. They can become relationship-builders, community connectors, and compassionate companions who help restore a sense of belonging and humanity.
For those who recruit, train, support, and recognize volunteers in long-term care and aging services.
For those seeking deeper community involvement and more meaningful one-to-one engagement.
For leaders who want to strengthen person-centered care through volunteer engagement.
For those exploring aging services or advocating for stronger connection in long-term care communities.
Creating the Volun-Cheer Force is an excellent practical guide to adapting volunteer management practices to the nursing home and long-term care setting. More importantly, it is a deeply thought-provoking call to action for communities to renew their social contracts and create communities that care for one another at every stage of life.
— Healthcare volunteer engagement professional with more than 45 years of experience
Whether you are a leader of volunteers, healthcare administrator, social worker, activities director, student, family member, or advocate, this book provides valuable insight into the role volunteers can play in transforming long-term care.
— Volunteer engagement leader and podcast guest
- Practical guidance for strengthening volunteer programs in long-term care communities
- Real-world examples from decades of volunteer engagement work
- Discussion of “super” volunteers and the qualities that make them effective
- Insight into common barriers that prevent stronger volunteer engagement
- A hopeful vision for increasing community involvement in the lives of people living in long-term care
Dr. Paul P. Falkowski is the Founder and President of the National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers. He previously founded Community 360°, a volunteer matching program that connected hundreds of volunteers with people living in long-term care communities.
His doctoral research examined the impact of volunteers on quality of life in nursing homes and continues to influence his advocacy for companion volunteer programs nationwide.