EVE - Elders Volunteer for Elders

Laura Stroder, EVE Project Coordinator

EVE is a volunteer program that provides advocacy for elderly who live at home.  The project now serves the counties of Butler, Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Ripley, St. Francis, Ste. Genevieve, Scott and Stoddard.

EVE receives referrals from families, friends, churches, agencies, and others who are concerned about individuals who live alone or who do not have the assistance needed in order to remain independent. Volunteers visit the home when welcomed by the older adult and assist in securing solutions to any problems.

Missouri citizens aged 60 or older may qualify for the program, if they are determined to be at risk of:

(1) Premature institutionalization,

(2) Unnecessary prolonged institutionalization,

(3) Unmet needs for assistance with activities of daily living,

(4) Premature or unnecessary guardianship and unmet need for guardianship,

(5) Victims of possible fraud, abuse or neglect.

Older adults who live in their own homes but who may be at risk benefit through the visits of a trained volunteer who can become a trusted friend, provide information, assist with access to services, advocate on their behalf, and help prevent fraud, abuse and neglect.

Service providers benefit through the assistance of trained volunteers who supplement their services. Volunteers respond to referrals with the permission of the older adult and/or his/her representative.

Volunteer’s benefit through their ability to make a difference in the lives of their clients as they assist them in their efforts to remain independent for as long as possible.

To become a volunteer in the EVE project you need:

Time - Volunteers will visit assigned individuals two to four times monthly and respond to emergencies when appropriate.

Concern - Sincere interest in the well being of and liking for older adults are required.

Commitment - A 12-hour training program is required before a volunteer is assigned to a client. On-going in-service training on a quarterly basis and individual support are also provided.

Call the Area Agency on Aging at 573-335-3331 or toll free 1-800-392-8771 if you are outside the Cape Girardeau calling area. Do you wish information? Do you want to be an EVE volunteer? Do you know someone who may be at risk?