Senior Companion Program Turns 40
The Senior Companion Program is celebrating 40 years of connecting volunteers age 55 and older with community service efforts.
Created by the federal government, SCP began in 1974 in 18 communities nationwide. Maine was added in 1978 when then-President Jimmy Carter expanded the program. University of Maine Cooperative Extension became the program’s sponsor in 1981 and last year, nearly 100 senior companions provided friendship and assisted more than 500 homebound clients in 12 counties statewide.
More information about the national program is online. For information about becoming involved in Maine contact Wanda Lincoln, 581.3326, wanda.lincoln@maine.edu or visit the website. For information on the program in Androscoggin, Franklin, Oxford or Sagadahoc county, contact Anna Saar, 743.6329, anna.saar@maine.edu. For information on the program in Aroostook County, contact Kim Hazlett, 532.6548, kim.hazlett@maine.edu. For information on the program in Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis or Waldo county, contact Terri Eldridge, 581.3870, theresa.eldridge@maine.edu. For information on the program in Kennebec or Somerset county, contact Gene Tobey, 474.9622, gene.tobey@maine.edu. For information on the program in Washington County, contact Deb Gardner, 255.3345, deborah.gardner@maine.edu.