Advocate for the Elderly

Legal Counsel for the Elderly champions the dignity and rights of Washington, D.C., seniors by providing free legal and social work services to those in need — empowering, defending and protecting low-income seniors. 

Long-Term Care Ombudsman Volunteer

(Washington, D.C.)

Advocate for persons who reside in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes,and assisted living and community facilities by regularly visiting residents, monitoring conditions and care, and providing a voice for those unable to speak for themselves. You’ll also provide assistance with resident and family councils, community education and events.

Requirements:

• Must take provided training
• Must submit to a background check

Time/Frequency:

• Varies according to level of involvement

Pro Bono Legal Volunteer

(Washington, D.C.)

Protect low-income, 60-plus residents by providing them with access to pro bono legal services that help ensure they receive public benefits (Social Security, Medicaid, food stamps, etc.), prevent eviction or foreclosure, and more. You will help screen cases to ensure they have legal merit and are well developed before referring them to participating licensed attorneys.

Requirements:

• Must be D.C.-licensed attorney in good standing

Time/Frequency:

• Varies according to level of involvement

Schedule H Volunteer

(Washington, D.C.)

Make a difference by assisting low-income individuals 60-plus to file the D.C. Schedule H Homeowner and Renter Property Tax Credit for up to $1,025 for property taxes or rent paid. You will meet with clients, review the Schedule H tax form, help gather the required documentation and assist with submitting the form.

Requirements:

• Strong communication skills
• Must take provided training
• No legal skills required
• Must submit to a background check

Time/Frequency:

• Varies according to caseload and volunteers currently in place
• Need is highest in the spring, but volunteers are accepted year-round

Self-Help Office Volunteer

(Washington, D.C.)

Empower people 60-plus by providing them with self-help resources to protect their rights and well-being. You will assist clients with obtaining legal information, applying for public benefits, drafting consumer complaint letters, connecting with social service agencies, requesting vital records and more.

Requirements:

• Strong communication skills
• Be comfortable with technology
• No legal skills required
• Must submit to a background check

Time/Frequency:

• Varies according to level of involvement

Senior Medicare Patrol Volunteer

(Washington, D.C.)

Empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families and caregivers to prevent, detect and report health care fraud, errors and abuse. You’ll make an impact by performing administrative tasks, distributing helpful resources, staffing events, making group presentations, counseling beneficiaries directly and handling complex issues and referrals.

To sign up, please contact: Darnetta Adams or (202) 434-2099

Requirements:

• Strong communication skills
• Must take provided training
• Must submit to a background check

Time/Frequency:

• Varies according to level of involvement