Visiting Buddies Program
The Visiting Buddies & Companion Programs connect older adults in the community with volunteers for regular social visits. Our goal is to reduce isolation, build connections, and enhance well-being for older adults while offering meaningful volunteer opportunities.
How the Program Works
Visiting Buddies - Weekly Visits
Build meaningful connections and brighten someone’s day by becoming a Visiting Buddy Volunteer. Volunteers spend 2–3 hours per week with a matched older adult for 6 months, with the option to extend.
Visits can include:
-
Engage in relaxed, social activities at home or in the community
-
Social conversations and companionship
-
Flexible activities
-
Home-based activities (games, crafts, hobbies)
-
Outings in the community
Volunteer Companions - Appointment Assistance
Volunteer to accompany older adults to appointments and errands, helping reduce caregiver fatigue and strengthen community connections.
-
Accompany older adults to appointments or errands
-
Provide flexible, practical support while fostering independence
-
Help older adults stay connected to essential services and their community
-
Support navigating local resources
Program Impact
The Visiting Buddies Program:
-
Reduces social isolation among older adults
-
Helps older adults remain active and engaged in their community
-
Supports caregivers by sharing the load
-
Strengthens community connections and wellbeing
This program is made possible with support from Nova Scotia Health.
Volunteer Requirements & Support
All volunteers undergo a thorough application process:
-
Interview and orientation
-
Vulnerable Sector Check
-
Training to ensure meaningful and safe visits
We provide ongoing guidance and support, making it easy for volunteers to make a difference while feeling confident in their role.
Transportation
Travel costs are covered for volunteers and clients for both our Visiting Buddies and Volunteer Companions.
Get Involved
Whether you’re an older adult seeking companionship or a volunteer ready to make a difference, the Visiting Buddies Program is here to connect you.
We cover transportation costs, and the program is both rewarding and well-supported. Volunteers receive ongoing guidance and support, making it easy to make a meaningful difference while feeling confident in their role.
To apply, click below:
Jessie
Visiting Buddies Client
“The most valuable aspect of my involvement in Visiting Buddies is the relationship I’ve built with my volunteer visitor.
Having a weekly visitor is like having a connection to the outside world for people who are in their homes all day. It expands your interests and encourages you to get out into the community, while the support and connection a volunteer provides improves your well-being.
It’s also reassuring to know you have someone to rely on for help when you need to do errands or go to appointments. It meets a need, which can be different for different people.”