Orlando – Do you want to join a winning team? Do you like to help others resolve problems? Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity that enables you to make a real difference in the lives of elders in you community?

If you answered, “yes” to all of these questions, then the Florida Department of Elder Affairs may have the perfect volunteer opportunity for you!

The Department is recruiting volunteers for its award-winning SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) Program. SHINE is a Medicare and health insurance information, counseling and assistance program that is part of the Department's positive aging campaign. SHINE reflects the Department's commitment to put elders first by empowering them to make informed decisions on health care issues.

Currently, there are approximately 450 dedicated SHINE volunteers statewide who provide services to Medicare customers, their families and caregivers. SHINE volunteers perform a variety of functions, including: providing information, counseling and assistance; making educational presentations to community groups; distributing materials at health fairs, senior fairs and outreach events; and assisting with general program support. Volunteer assignments are matched to the skills and interests of the volunteer.

SHINE supports its volunteers with a statewide network of paid staff and volunteer coordinators. The Department of Elder Affairs provides training, technical assistance and supervision. Volunteers receive local support and assistance from the Area Agencies on Aging. Trained volunteer coordinators provide day-to-day supervision and oversight.

SHINE requires a significant commitment from its volunteers. In addition to passing background checks and completing an initial 5-day training session, volunteers must attend refresher trainings and local meetings. However, the rewards for volunteer service are plentiful. Since the program's inception in 1993, SHINE volunteers have assisted more than 300,000 elders and their caregivers. In addition to saving elders millions of dollars, they have brought peace of mind to people who have been caught up in the Medicare maze.

SHINE volunteers have received numerous awards for service, including the CMS Beneficiary Services Award of Merit, Florida's Golden Choices awards, J.C. Penney Community services Awards, and Davis Productivity Awards.

Currently, SHINE is holding Basic Training 1 in Brevard on April 13^th, 14^th, and 15^that Wuesthoff Business Office. The Basic Training 2 is held on April 28^th and 29^th For more information and application process, please contact Lynne Meagher, Area Coordinator for Brevard PSA 7B 321-752-8080.

To become a Volunteer in Brevard County, Contact:

SHINE Helpline: (321) 752-8080

To become a Volunteer in Orange, Osceola, or Seminole Counties, Contact:

Heather Fogle, MSW, SHINE Liaison: (407) 514-1823 or e-mail: fogleh@sraflorida.org