OASIS FAQs
What is OASIS?
OASIS is Catholic Charities’ Older Adult Services and Intervention System. It helps create and support religious congregation teams that give service and support to seniors in the community who need help. The program helps seniors remain independent and connected to our community.
What services are provided?
OASIS religious congregation volunteers are friendly visitors who help with everyday activities like shopping, reading mail, errands, and getting to the doctor. They don’t give personal care or professional type services. However, they do help identify unmet needs and connect seniors to people and programs who can help them with these needs.
Who can be a volunteer?
Any mature, trustworthy adult. The main qualifications are good listening skills, a desire to help others, respect for older adults and a willingness to abide by ethical guidelines. Religious congregation volunteer leaders will get special training on screening, selecting, and supporting the volunteers. Catholic Charities Los Angeles, Inc. considers OASIS volunteers “registered volunteers”. This means that they run a police background check using the volunteer’s driver’s license and social security numbers.
Are volunteers trained?
Yes. Although the tasks volunteers will perform are simple, there are a variety of issues to consider when serving vulnerable adults. For example, what to do in the event of an emergency? Volunteers and their leaders will be trained on pertinent issues and program guidelines before services begin.
Who can receive services?
Any older adult in the community over age 65 who needs the type of help the volunteers can provide. Religious congregation programs will have flexibility to assign volunteers effectively. It is hoped that the program will reach isolated and lonely seniors.
How are participants matched?
Some volunteers will be matched on an as needed basis with someone who needs the type of help they can provide. For example, on as needed services include transportation to a medical appointment or handyman services. Most volunteers, however, will be matched with a specific senior who they will visit and help on a regular basis. Volunteer team leaders will be trained on how to make good matches between volunteers and people needing help.
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