What is Befriending?
According to Oxford Dictionary, Befriending is the act as or become a friend to (someone), especially when they are in need of help or support.
In Goodlife, we provide befriending service to seniors who are lonely and who refuse to come out of their comfort zone to the community.
“Everyone needs a someone, but not everyone has someone. For people who become isolated because of poor health, disability or social disadvantage, being matched with a volunteer often fills a big gap”
Why the need for Befriending?
“A helping hand or listening ear can make a world of difference to the lives of seniors”
We believe in supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of the seniors by giving them the gift of a listening ear or shoulder to cry on through our Community Befriending Programme.
Growing old can be a lonely affair for some seniors, especially when their family members are busy with work and seldom have the time to visit them. In Goodlife!, we do have quite a handful of seniors who are living alone. Most of these seniors do not have any next-of-kin or they are estranged from their family.
The results of befriending can be very significant. Befriending often provides people with a new direction in life, opens up a range of activities and leads to increased self-esteem and self-confidence. Befriending can also reduce the burden on other services which people may use inappropriately as they seek social contact.
We hope to look for volunteers who are:
- “A helping hand or listening ear can make a world of difference to the lives of seniors”
- Minimum 18 years old
- Good listener
- Reliable
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Have 1 hour to commit each week
Goodlife! will provide all our volunteers with a full induction and training, hence previous experience is not needed.
Why Volunteer With us?
- Orientation and training sessions will be provided to equip you with the essential skills to befriending.
- Through volunteering at GoodLife!, you will meet like-minded people from all walks of life. It is a great place to make new friends and be part of the community.
- We value our volunteers, hence we believe in regular bonding sessions for our volunteers to share about their volunteering experience
- We believe that everyone has something to offer, whether it is skills, qualifications, being interested in volunteering or the desire to make a difference.
By volunteering with us, you will have the opportunity to provide companionship to those who feels rejected by the community or are experiencing loneliness in their life.
Testimonials
“I am appreciative of the visit made every week. It may seem nothing to you but it meant a lot to me .”
Senior Wong
“I am always looking forward for Ah Kim to visit me, she brings joy to my life.”
Senior Tan