Visiting Buddies Program

The Visiting Buddies Program connects older adults in our 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

Weekly Visits

Volunteers spend 2–3 hours per week with a matched older adult for 6 months, with the option to extend.

Flexible Activities: Visits can include:

Social conversations and companionship
Home-based activities (games, crafts, hobbies)
Outings in the community
Support navigating local resources

Volunteer Companions

Volunteers are also able to accompany older adults to appointments and errands, helping reduce caregiver fatigue and strengthen community connections.

Transportation Support

Travel costs are covered for volunteers and clients through MusGo Rider services.

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.

Volunteer Opportunities

We are actively recruiting volunteers to bring connection and companionship to older adults:

Visiting Buddies Volunteers

Spend 2–3 hours each week visiting a matched older adult
Engage in relaxed, social activities at home or in the community
Build meaningful connections and brighten someone’s day

Volunteer Companions

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

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.

To sign up as a volunteer, or to sign up for a Visiting Buddy Volunteer,

fill out the form below or contact us at

(782) 409-9007 / Toll Free: 1-833-393-2298 ex. 1

admin@wellbeinghub.ca

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.”