Volunteer with Purpose in Luzerne & Wyoming Counties!

Become a Peer Counselor for Older Adults

As people age, they may face increased loneliness, grief, and health challenges that affect their quality of life. You can make a difference.

Diakon’s Peer Counseling Program connects trained volunteers with older adults to offer companionship, emotional support, and community resource guidance, helping them feel seen, heard, and valued.

What You’ll Do

  • Build meaningful connections through regular visits by phone, video, or in-person.
  • Offer support through open conversations about:
    • Loneliness, grief, and life changes
    • Favorite hobbies, books, music, and memories
    • Health tips and wellness encouragement
    • Community resources like meals, rides, or social activities

What You’ll Learn

All volunteers receive training to feel confident and prepared. Topics include:

  • Active listening & communication
  • Mental health awareness
  • Understanding aging challenges
  • Crisis response and referral
  • Ethics and confidentiality
  • Volunteer self-care and boundaries

Time Commitment

  • Flexible scheduling based on your availability
  • Assignments typically take place Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
  • The program manager will work with you to set a schedule that fits your life.

BE A SOURCE OF SUPPORT.
Be a Peer Counselor.

Interested? Contact us today to learn more or get started. Email Susan Long at LongS@diakon.org or call 570-624-3018