LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Do you want to make a difference in the lives of others? Do you have a passion for helping, a caring spirit, and a willingness to learn?

If you answered “yes” to these questions, then being a volunteer ombudsman is a great way for you to give back to your community!

The Long Term Care Ombudsman Program is a government-funded advocacy agency for nursing home and assisted-living residents.

Volunteers have permission to enter any nursing home, assisted-living or other long-term-care facility at any time, unannounced.

This is the time to stand up for those who do not have a voice. Hours are flexible, free training is provided so that you will have all of the necessary tools to advocate for those who are already vulnerable in the community, and mileage is reimbursed as well.

An enriching experience

Volunteering to improve the quality of life of others is rewarding in so many ways. Having the opportunity to witness a face brighten when someone sees your familiar face or anticipates you walking by their door so they can share their recent family visit is truly heartwarming.

Not only are you advocating for and helping those who are some of the most vulnerable, you are building life-long skills in communication, listening, and problem solving.

We learn through others and their life experiences and can apply those new-learned abilities to many areas of our personal and professional lives. Volunteering teaches you skills that are applicable in all areas of life.

Problem solving and support

There are serious moments when residents grow frustrated with the care they are receiving and they need your help to voice their concerns.

Many residents have some degree of dementia or other cognitive impairments that make it difficult to for them to advocate for themselves and many don’t have family or friends they can rely on to help them navigate the questions or concerns they have about their care. You have the opportunity to listen to their concerns and bring to light possible solutions.

Volunteer participation is vital to the success of the Ombudsman Program and the receipt of quality care for those living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Why you should volunteer

Volunteering for the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program can leave a lasting positive impact on many seniors in your community.

Throughout our lives, elders showed us the way and were some of the best advocates for us, so why not continue to influence change and make a difference.

For more information contact Long-Term Care Ombudsman Coordinator Sonya Lujan at 707-262-4525 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .