Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer Opportunities

“As Gandhi wisely points out, even as we serve others we are working on ourselves; every act, every word, every gesture of genuine compassion naturally nourishes our own hearts as well. It is not a question of who is healed first. When we attend to ourselves with compassion and mercy, more healing is made available for others. And when we serve others with an open and generous heart, great healing comes to us.”

– Wayne Muller

You are invited to volunteer with New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services.

Join us as a volunteer at New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services! As a vital part of our team, you’ll play a key role in fulfilling our mission to support New Mexico’s older adults and adults with disabilities. Our goal is to ensure they remain active in their communities, age with dignity and respect, and are safeguarded from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. 
 
We offer a range of volunteer opportunities tailored to your skills and interests. Whether it’s providing direct assistance to seniors, supporting adults living with disabilities, or contributing to various program initiatives, your involvement will make a meaningful differencesignificantly enhancing the quality of life for many across New Mexico. 
 
Training and coaching are provided to all volunteers, ensuring you are equipped to make a positive impact while also growing personally and professionally. 

Volunteer | NM Aging & Long-Term Services

Benefits Counseling Volunteers 

As a SHIP (State Health Insurance Program) and SMP (Senior Medicare Patrol) volunteer, you’ll serve as a Benefits Counselor, offering crucial support to seniors by navigating complex health insurance options and programs. You’ll help them understand Medicare, Medicaid, and other benefits to manage their medical costs effectively. Additionally, you’ll assist in identifying programs that help with essential expenses like prescriptions, food, and utilities, ensuring they have the resources needed for a dignified life. Join us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our community’s elders. 

Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program 

A Long-Term Care Ombudsman advocates for residents of long-term care facilities, ensuring their rights are respected and their needs are met. This role involves addressing concerns, resolving complaints, and working to improve the quality of care, providing a crucial voice for some of the most vulnerable members of our community. 

Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) 

The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) provides valuable part-time volunteering roles for individuals aged 55 and over with limited incomes, who offer personalized support to children with special or exceptional needs. Participants in the program receive stipends to facilitate their volunteer efforts, enhancing their ability to make a significant impact. 

Senior Companion Program (SCP) 

The Senior Companion Program (SCP) provides part-time community service opportunities for individuals aged 55 and over with limited incomes. Volunteers in this program offer one-to-one support to help older adults maintain their independence and continue living comfortably in their own homes. 

Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) 

The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) offers individuals aged 55 and older the chance to engage in volunteer activities that address critical community needs. RSVP empowers older adults to contribute their wealth of talents, experiences, skills, and hobbies to community projects and organizations that benefit from volunteer support. 

Volunteer Application Form

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD). Volunteers play a vital role in supporting older adults, individuals with disabilities, caregivers, and communities across New Mexico. Please complete this application fully. Submission does not guarantee placement.

1. Applicant Information

Name(Required)
Pronouns (optional):

MM slash DD slash YYYY
Address(Required)
Preferred Method of Contact:

2. Emergency Contact

Name(Required)

3. Applicant Availability

Please check the areas you are interested in supporting (placement depends on availability and need):
MM slash DD slash YYYY
Days Available (check all that apply):
Preferred Time of Day:
Length of Commitment (if known):

4. Areas of Interest

Please check the areas you are interested in supporting (placement depends on availability and need):
Aging Network Division (AmeriCorps Programs)
Consumer and Elder Rights Division (SHIP/SMP)
Other Department Programs

5. Skills, Experience & Languages

Relevant Skills or Experience (professional, volunteer, or lived experience):
Languages Spoken
Comfort Level Working With (check all that apply):

6. Background & Compliance

Some volunteer roles may require additional screening.
Are you willing to complete a background check if required?(Required)
Do you have reliable transportation (if applicable to role)?

7. References (optional but encouraged)

Reference Name:

8. Applicant Statement

9. Acknowledgement & Consent

Name(Required)
MM slash DD slash YYYY

10.What happens next?

For Questions Please Contact
ALTSD Volunteer Program Volunteer@altsd.nm.gov | 📞 800-432-2080 We will review your application and learn more about your interests and availability. A member of our team will reach out with follow-up