Project CARE

"I define connection as the energy that exists between two people when they feel seen, heard and valued; when they can give and receive without judgement; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship." --Dr. Brene Brown

Project CARE / Project Generations

Project CARE is a free friendly visiting program that helps to alleviate loneliness and social isolation among Tompkins County residents aged 60 and over. Volunteers provide older adults with companionship and assistance while sharing a unique bond. Participants are matched one-on-one with a volunteer. Volunteers are Tompkins County community members.

Project Generations is the same as Project CARE, but volunteers are local undergraduate college students from the surrounding educational institutions.

Participants are matched with a volunteer who may provide the following services:

  • Weekly friendly visits (conversation, games/crafts, walks, gardening, and more)
  • Telephone friendly reassurance calls
  • Caregiver respite
  • Running errands
  • Organization
  • Light housekeeping
  • Technology assistance
  • One-time special requests

What a volunteer may mean to you:
Companionship, conversation, laughter, friendship, help and more....

Click here to request a volunteer

For more information or to enroll in the program via phone or email:
Contact Dawn Sprague, Project CARE Coordinator
dsprague@tompkins-co.org or call 607-274-5499

Become a Project CARE/Project Generations volunteer!

Volunteer commitment is 1-3 hours per week. Volunteers are matched one-on-one with an older adult based on preferences.

Click here for the volunteer application

Cornell University Project Generations

LINK for active volunteers only (password protected)

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering helps to connect you to your community. It can bring meaning and purpose to your life, it also increases self-esteem, wellbeing, and confidence. It alleviates stress and depression. As well as having a positive impact on your community.

What is the golden rule of volunteering?

The golden rule to volunteering is that if you commit to something...do it! Your ability to fulfill a commitment doesn't just reflect on you, it also reflects upon the organization you are volunteering for. Great volunteers remain professional in all situations.

Desirable Volunteer Characteristics

  • Passion
  • Enthusiasm
  • Interest in personal growth
  • Committed & Reliable
  • Team player
  • Positive role model
  • Friendliness
  • Maintains confidentiality

Volunteer Skills List

  • Problem solving
  • Organization
  • Communication & interpersonal skills
  • Relationship building
  • Teamwork
  • Time management
  • Meeting reporting deadlines
  • Mentoring
  • Training others
  • Listening skills
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