Are you isolated due to COVID? Do you know someone who would benefit from seeing family and friends but can’t for safety reasons? With continued precautions around COVID-19, many older adults are becoming increasingly isolated. The City of Fort Collins Volunteer Services is working to reduce the impact of social isolation for older adults through its new VirtuVisit program. City staff is seeking program participants with the goal of leveraging technology to help seniors maintain relationships with their family and friends while also safely engaging with the community. This program is currently limited to Fort Collins residents.
The VirtuVisit program connects isolated older adults to family, friends, and the volunteers supporting them. This no-cost program provides seniors with user-friendly digital tablets and startup support by trained volunteers. Each participating senior is paired with a volunteer who will teach them to use the tablet and connect with others. With practice and simple instructions, participants will be able to easily connect for a video call with family and friends. You can also attend virtual classes or join a virtual worship service.
Once accepted, you will be matched with a friendly qualified Tech Buddy volunteer who will help you set up a free user-friendly smart device. Your volunteer will teach you to use the device and make sure you feel comfortable. Participants can expect to have their device for six months.
To participate in the free VirtuVisit program, participants only need access to a local Wi-Fi Internet connection and a willingness to learn. To register yourself or someone else, fill out the VirtuVisit Intake Form, or to join the VirtuVisit Volunteer Program, complete a Volunteer Application on their website at www.fcgov.com/volunteer/virtuvisit. It takes about two weeks to be accepted.
For more information, please visit their website or contact program staff at vsp@fcgov.com or 970-224-6177.