Did you know that volunteering is a great way to make a difference?   It encourages civic responsibility and a great chance to give back.  It also promotes personal growth and self esteem and an opportunity  to develop new skills and talents. It may as well be  a rewarding activity as it  reduces your stress by focusing on someone other than yourself.

Each year, more than 1,000 people serve with NYC Department for the Aging (DFTA) volunteer programs  contributing over 400,000 hours of community service.  

Every day  DFTA volunteers make an extraordinary impact in our communities by leading health and wellness activities, mentoring a child as a foster grandparent, and providing vital health insurance counseling and money management assistance.  DFTA  provides many opportunities for seniors, and people interested in working with seniors, to enjoy the experience of helping our fellow New Yorkers.

Volunteer Opportunites 

Your service is what helps make New York City a great city to live in for all ages.  DFTA strives to create the most optimal experience for you.  Your assignment will be  based on opportunities that match your interests, expertise and schedule. DFTA seeks volunteers for the following programs:

Bill Payer Program

Managing  the monthly bills can be overwhelming and cumbersome for anyone.  For a senior who may have no one who can assist when the bills are left unpaid and piling up, life can have serious consequences.  If you know how to balance a checkbook and pay bills, then consider being a Bill Payer volunteer.  You can play a vital role in helping a senior continue to live independently at home.

Foster Grandparent Program  

Many young children in New York City could benefit from the love and guidance of a senior.  If you enjoy being with children, this is an opportunity to consider.  You can work one-on-one with a child or a group of children, to teach reading and math, and offer enforcement and emotional support.  Your service as a Foster Grandparent will have a lasting effect on a child's life.

Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program   

Each year, many seniors are tasked with choosing a health insurance plan.  with so much information to review and comprehend, this can be a challenge.  Seniors who need assistance navigating this important decision-making process often rely on highly trained volunteers to determine their best options.  If you are a great communicator, can absorb complex information and have a lot of patience, you can be trained as a HIICAP volunteer.

Health Promotion Program

You don't have to be a health expert to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of seniors.  Volunteers are needed to lead walking-clubs and exercise classes, as well as conduct blood pressure screenings at local senior centers and community organizations.  By becoming a Health Promotion volunteer, you can gain life-saving skills and help others adopt a healthy lifestyle.  Programs include:

• Big Apple Walking Club Volunteer  

• Keep On Track Program Volunteer

• STAY WELL Exercise Program Volunteer 

Unique Opportunities

Looking for an opportunity to contribute your services for the good of the community, but don't have a lot of free time? Volunteer with one of DFTA's short-term projects.  Every hour of your time and service helps.

Sign Up to Volunteer  

Volunteering with DFTA requires the following steps:

1. Complete the DFTA Volunteer Interest Form.
2. Attend a Volunteer Information Session.
3. Complete a Volunteer Application.
4. After your application review, you will be contacted regarding placement.

If you would like more information, please  call 212-602-4464.