Care centres across Latvia to hold joint open days for volunteers on September 12
Several social care centres in Latvia will open their doors simultaneously for the first time on September 12 to introduce people to volunteering opportunities and the daily life of elderly residents. The initiative stems from the association Ascendum's project "Conversations with Seniors".
The association "Ascendum" reports that on September 12, several social care centres across Latvia will hold open days at the same time for the first time. Anyone interested will be able to see the centres' daily routines, meet residents, and learn how to get involved as a volunteer.
The event is part of a campaign that grew out of the association's experience running the project "Conversations with Seniors". Its goal is to raise awareness of the importance of volunteering and highlight the social isolation faced by elderly people.
Volunteers' experience
Antonija Skopa, chair of Ascendum's board, says that volunteering at a care centre often turns out differently than people initially expect: rather than gloom, volunteers are met with smiles and humour, and the experience ends up benefiting both sides.
Volunteers taking part in "Conversations with Seniors" are specially selected and trained. They regularly visit care institutions in various parts of Latvia, talk with residents, listen to their life stories, play games together and cook meals with them. These interactions help reduce loneliness among seniors while giving volunteers new experiences and perspectives.
The open days are financially supported by the Society Integration Foundation using funds from the state budget.
