Senior Companion Program (SCP)

The 1960 White House Conference on Aging highlighted the need for all older people to stay active, which could be done through service to their country. The conference led to the passage of the Older Americans Act of 1965. It was not until 1968 that the Senior Companion Program began as a demonstration project at the Administration on Aging with a goal for low-income older adults to help their more frail peers remain independent in their homes.

In 1971, President Nixon created the ACTION agency to provide coordination of all government sponsored volunteer programs, and in 1973 the Senior Companion Program was officially launched.  In 2024, Curry County expanded their volunteer program offerings and was awarded an AmeriCorp grant for the Senior Companion Program.

What is SCP?

As an AmeriCorps Seniors volunteer in our Senior Companion Program, you will work one-on-one with individuals who need a little extra help to remain independent. You will visit your Senior Companion partner on a regular schedule that fits both your availability and your partner’s needs either weekly, biweekly, or more frequently.  In addition to providing practical help, you’ll offer companionship and emotional support to someone who may otherwise feel isolated.

Your life experience can make a positive difference in the lives of others.  As a SCP volunteer, you’ll help create new possibilities and improve the quality of life for adults with physical, emotional, or mental health limitations.  Your time and companionship will enable older adults to remain in their own home and age in place, reduce feelings of loneliness and help give family caregivers a break.

SCP Eligibility/Benefits

• Qualifications:  Applicants must be 55 years of age or older and able to pass a criminal background check. Volunteers work a minimum of 5 hours per week up to 40 hours.
• Stipends: Senior Companions are eligible to receive a stipend of $4.00 per hour. This stipend is non-taxable and is not considered income. These stipends are based on income qualifications, and an income certification will be done annually to determine eligibility.  If income is determined to be above the standard for stipend eligibility, a Senior Companion may serve as a non-stipend volunteer. They will receive the same benefits a stipend volunteer receives except the stipend. 
• Travel:  Senior Companions using their own vehicle will be reimbursed at a rate of $0.70 per mile. The volunteer is required to provide proof of current auto insurance and must maintain a valid driver’s license. Mileage is verified to determine the distance between destinations. 

2026 Income Eligibility Levels for Foster Grandparents, by Household Size  
(Based on 200 percent of DHHS poverty guidelines)

Family of 1  - $31,920
Family of 2 -  $43,280
Family of 3 -  $54,640
Family of 4 -  $66,000

Income qualifications are based on income from all members of a household.
For family units with more than four members, add $11,360 for each additional member.

PUBLIC NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

This program is available to all, without discrimination on the basis of race, color sexual orientation, pregnancy, religion, age, national origin, genetic information, disability, military status, familial status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law.

2.3.4 Non-Discrimination (45 CFR 2553.91(f)) A sponsor or sponsor employee shall not discriminate against a RSVP volunteer on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, or political affiliation, or on the basis of disability if the volunteer with a disability is qualified to serve.