Make a Senior Smile: Volunteer Befriending Role

CompanionLink is a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to reducing social isolation among seniors through meaningful, one-to-one connections with trained volunteers. Many older adults experience loneliness due to health challenges, loss of loved ones, language barriers, or limited mobility. Our Befriending Program exists to ensure seniors have consistent social connection and someone who genuinely cares.

As a Volunteer Befriender, you will be matched with one senior and commit to regular weekly connection, typically about one hour per week, for a minimum commitment of six months. At a minimum, all matches connect by phone. Depending on the program, location, and individual needs, some matches may also connect by video or in person.

Consistency is essential to building trust and meaningful relationships. Over time, many matches develop strong, supportive connections that provide companionship, emotional support, and a sense of routine for the senior.

Volunteers do not provide medical care, counselling, or personal support services. Your role is to offer friendly conversation, active listening, encouragement, and social connection. This might include chatting about daily life, hobbies, family, memories, current events, or shared interests. Simply being present and dependable can make a powerful difference.

All volunteers receive training before being matched, including guidance on communication, boundaries, and working respectfully with older adults. CompanionLink also provides ongoing staff support throughout the match, and volunteers are never expected to manage concerns on their own. We are here to support both you and your match every step of the way.

This role is well suited to compassionate, reliable individuals who can commit to participating consistently for at least six months. All volunteers must be over 18 years of age and reside in Canada. 

Many volunteers find this experience deeply rewarding and appreciate the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to their community while developing communication, empathy, and relationship-building skills.

By volunteering with CompanionLink, you become part of a growing network of people committed to strengthening wellbeing and connection across generations. Your time helps ensure that no senior has to feel forgotten or alone.