PEORIA, Ill. – A new program is in place in Peoria that will let seniors – or, people over the age of 55 – become healthcare workers.
It’s called “Americorps Seniors” and is being organized by the HAP Foundation – of which Joseph Matty is the president.
“What we’re working with AmeriCorps on is training people that don’t have a healthcare background, in healthcare,” said Matty. “We’re working with (volunteers) on…the way that they become knowledgeable in the space of serious illness, having an ability to go into a new field.”
Matty tells WMBD’s Greg and Dan the volunteers will work with places like the Salvation Army, Solvera Health, Traditions Hospice, and Family Core.
“They’re going to receive a monthly stipend of $200,” said Matty. “They’re learning a skill. They’re going to be getting work experience while getting a monthly stipend…what we’re trying to do is make sure that people have the ability to stay in their communities, make a difference in their communities, and get a different skillset.”
Matty says the work includes educating people about things like hospice care, homelessness, food insecurity, and where resources can be found in those areas.
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