Fresno Madera Ombudsman Volunteer Opportunity

Fresno-Madera Long-Term Care Ombudsman Volunteer Opportunity

How do you say “Ombudsman” and what does it mean? You say, “Om- budz-man” and it means, “One who speaks on behalf of another”.
What do we do? Our Ombudsman Volunteers are people who bring about positive change in order to maintain or improve the quality of life for nursing home, assisted living and other long-term care residents. Our long-term care residents need someone to listen to their concerns and to speak on their behalf when a problem arises. The Ombudsman fills this need by serving as an advocate for the rights and needs of our residents and as a mediator who brings together residents and facility staff to help resolve resident complaints. Ombudsman serve as an important communication link between the resident and the staff, becoming a relied-upon source of information and assistance, benefiting everyone involved. We also investigate allegations of Elder and Dependent Adult abuse in our catchment area.
What are your OMBUDSMAN SERVICES to our residents?
• Communicate regularly with residents and listen to their concerns.
• Act on behalf of residents to resolve problems.
• Promote communication among those involved in a problem concerning a resident's care.
• Educate residents on their rights, the Ombudsman Program and other services available.
What is your COMMITMENT as an Ombudsman?
• Attend and pass a 36-hour certification class.
• Pass a fingerprint screening and background check.
• Visit your assigned facilities 10-20 hours per month.
• Follow up on each complaint and report back to the resident on the status of the problem.
• Complete a short written report after each complaint investigation.
• Attend in-service training sessions a minimum of 12 hours per year.
What are the CRITERIA needed to become a Certified Ombudsman?
• Have a sincere interest in the elderly.
• Have good listening and communication skills.
• Be objective, sensitive, diplomatic and reliable.
• Be willing to handle complaints and to resolve problems.
• Be over 18 years of age and have transportation.
Our SUPPORT for Ombudsman includes:
• Minimum of 10 hours of training in a variety of facilities with an active Ombudsman Volunteer.
• Continuing education and assistance from staff.
• A sincere effort to place new Ombudsman Volunteers in facilities close to their own residences.

Our NEXT TRAINING:
April 16th through April 20, 2012
8:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.

Contact Information: Fresno-Madera LTC Ombudsman Program
3845 N. Clark Ave. #201 Fresno, CA 93726
Phone: 559-224-9177 Website: www.valleycrc.org