Perfect match: baby boomers volunteering for families with autism
by Patricia
The task of providing 24/7 supervision for a child with autism can be overwhelming, and short respite breaks can be an incredible support to families. Many Easter Seals affiliates provide respite services, but we know we are not meeting the growing need.
Enter one very much appreciated friend of Easter Seals. A generous donor has funded a program to build a curriculum to train older adult volunteers to provide respite care for children with autism. What a match — meeting the needs of families experiencing autism and the desires of baby boomers to contribute.
The Alliance for Nonprofit Management reports that baby boomers seek out meaningful ways to volunteer, and this program should provide just what they’re looking for. We are in the beginning stages of curriculum development. Easter Seals and our collaborative partners — National Council on Aging, Generations United, Watson Institute, the Corporation for National and Community Service, and the Autism Society of America — have met and look forward to expanding opportunities for baby boomers to volunteer. Stay tuned — we’ll let you know when the curriculum is ready to go.