What is the Volunteer Chore Program?

The Volunteer Chore Program (VCP) is a volunteer program administered by the Whatcom Volunteer Center. Volunteers provide no-fee services to the elderly and adults with disabilities to help them remain independent in their own homes. Volunteers perform chores such as housekeeping, shopping, laundry, yard work, and minor household repairs. These simple services allow clients to stay out of costly assisted living centers for as long as possible, helping them maintain their dignity and freedom.

The Volunteer Chore Program serves as a safety net for those who do not have other resources available to them. VCP does not duplicate services that are already available in the community.

Volunteer Opportunities

• Minor Repairs: Perform minor repairs (carpentry, plumbing and small appliance) to help low-income seniors and adults living with disabilities remain independent in their own homes.
• Housework: Provide assistance with housework for senior citizens and adults living with disabilities.
• Yard Work: Lend a helping hand by cleaning up a yard for a senior citizen or an adult living with a disability. Weed, mow or prune.
• Transportation: Drive senior citizens and adults living with disabilities who have no transportation options to local or Seattle doctors’ appointments or help with grocery shopping.

How to Get Started

First, come by the Whatcom Volunteer Center, call (360) 734-3055, or email Volunteer Chore to schedule an orientation.

Then, fill out and submit the necessary paperwork , which includes a confidentiality policy, an “Affirmation of Good Moral Character,” and at least three verifiable references. In addition to these forms, we will need you to submit to a Washington State Patrol Background Check and to provide a copy of your driver’s license and proof of insurance (if you are volunteering for transportation). To specify neighborhoods where you would like to volunteer, please see the neighborhood map .

Once the paperwork is processed you can start volunteering! You can choose a client from the Chore Volunteer Opportunities , or just wait until we call with someone that matches your interests and abilities.

Client Testimonials

The Chore Program has given me back my dignity and pride in my own home. My volunteer has become a faithful and valued friend. Her work and her friendship are of the highest quality.”

I had to have hip replacement and was in a lot of pain. The help was temporary but so helpful when I needed it.”

It has made living possible since my husband’s illness and death. I’m in a wheelchair and somewhat helpless. I’m very grateful for all your help. I couldn’t continue to live on my own without the assistance.”

Volunteer Benefits

Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and it is a productive use of free time. Through the Volunteer Chore Program you can assist long-time community members with a variety of tasks.

The Whatcom Volunteer Center provides secondary automobile insurance to all volunteers turning in hours. The insurance covers volunteers while traveling directly to and from the client’s home and while volunteering. Volunteer insurance is offered through CIMA .

Volunteers may also receive reimbursement for their mileage if requested. Reimbursable mileage includes transportation to and from the client’s home and for transporting a client to provide a service.

I want to thank you and your program for the opportunity I have had over the past nine months to make a tangible difference in someones’s life. Your program is a vital part – albiet an often invisible one – in our community.” – Chore Volunteer

Donations

We are seeking donations to help us continue this very effective program.

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