Our SHIP Needs a Crew
The Pennsylvania State Health Insurance Program (SHIP), also known as the APPRISE Program, is looking for volunteer counselors in Clearfield County.
Goals of the Position A large group of your friends and colleagues are inching closer to retirement and have no clue how to navigate the Medicare system. You can take the helm and help calm their fears. As a Medicare Volunteer Counselor you will be trained to be the voice of calm during the winds of change ahead.
Key Responsibilities
• You will help people to make informed decisions when considering their healthcare choices for Medicare.
• You will be trained to answer questions and distribute Medicare information to new enrollees and those who have been enrolled in Medicare for years.
• You will help those looking to switch healthcare plans during the Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period, often saving them money on prescription costs.
Location
All trained volunteers will meet with clients at the local Senior Center or over the phone as some needs do not require a face to face meeting.
Skills and Qualifications
A good knowledge of computers, ability to navigate websites, and good verbal skills will be needed to complete these responsibilities.
Time Commitment
As a volunteer you will set your own hours. Flexibility makes this a great opportunity to adapt your willingness to volunteer with your schedule.
Length of Appointment
Time commitments for this position fluctuate, with the most demanding time during Medicare Open Enrollment, which is October 15 to December 7.
Training & Support
Training is both online and in person and some travel is involved. Once the trainings are complete new volunteers mentor with veteran counselors until they feel confident to counsel on their own.
Volunteer Benefits
• Free trainings
• Mileage reimbursement for trainings
• Warm, fuzzy feeling after helping each person
Contact Information
Alice Pollock, APPRISE Coordinator
Clearfield Area Agency on Aging, Inc.
(814) 765-2696
apollock@ccaaa.net
In-person trainings are forming now so don’t miss this opportunity to enroll.