The Senior Companion provides companionship and assistance to older adults (60+) who may have difficulty with routine tasks and/or are geographically isolated. This position supports older adults to help them maintain their independence, enhance their quality of life and provide respite to family caregivers. Hours are flexible, part-time, on call, as needed. Reliable transportation is necessary to travel to assignments throughout the county.

Essential functions may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks. Reasonable accommodations, as defined under the American with Disabilities Act, will be made when possible.

Visits adults 60 and over in their homes or in the community for limited pre-agreed upon periods of time to provide companionship and non-medical, non-housekeeping assistance.

Accompanies seniors at their request to appointments, shopping trips and/or other outings utilizing Senior Center transportation services. Such trips must be pre-arranged.

Informs consumers of available resources to assist them; explains service program requirements to consumers: answers their questions: and refers to other community resources as appropriate.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Regular and predictable attendance is required.

MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT USED:

Vehicle

Education and Experience:

High school diploma or equivalent.

Some experience interacting with seniors and a desire to make connections and contribute to the well-being of our aging population.

Current Driver’s License.

Ability to actively listen and respond to clients with empathy and respect.

Ability to clearly communicate and set boundaries when appropriate.

Policies, procedures, philosophies, rules and regulations governing the services to clients.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of individuals.

Non-Discrimination and Affirmative Action Statement

La Plata County prohibits discrimination against or harassment of any person employed or seeking employment with La Plata County on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, national origin, disability, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status or genetic information.

La Plata County is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. La Plata County takes affirmative action to assure equal employment opportunity for protected classes, persons with disabilities and for covered veterans. Covered veterans include: special disabled veterans, recently separated veterans, Vietnam era veterans, or any other veterans who served on active duty during a war or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge was authorized.

Inquiries regarding La Plata County's equal employment opportunity policies may be directed to:

Director of Human Resources

1101 E 2nd Avenue

Durango, CO 81301

Tel: (970)382-6361

Fax: (970)375-7985

Email: HR@co.laplata.co.us