The following are some of the volunteer opportunities currently open in Freeborn County. If you can help with these or would like to volunteer for others, call Pat Stumme, Retired and Senior Volunteer Program director, at Senior Resources, 377-7433.

Give a caregiver a break: Be a companion to an elderly or frail senior, and provide a caregiver a break for a few hours. You can make a big impact just by spending an hour or two per week or month as a visitor or companion. The Family Caregiver Network can provide more details and help you get started. Call 377-7433 and enjoy a change of pace for yourself.

June is National Safety Month: Take some time this month to check out your home or the home of a senior in your life and make it a safer place. To prevent falls, the National Safety Council makes these recommendations:

• Secure electrical and phone cords out of traffic areas

• Remove small throw rugs or use non-skid mats to keep them from slipping

• Remove tripping hazards (paper, boxes, clothes, shoes) from stairs and walkways

• Check the condition of walkways and steps, and repair damages immediately

• Never stand on a chair, table or other surface on wheels

• Clean up all spills immediately.

Wheelchair escorts: St. John’s Lutheran Home, Thorne Crest Retirement Community, Good Samaritan Society and Oak Park Place welcome volunteers to assist residents in wheelchairs. They may be headed to the chapel on Sunday mornings, want to cruise the gardens or attend events and activities. Driving residents off site is not required for this volunteer activity. The joy you share will come back to you many times over.

RSVP, a program of Senior Resources of Freeborn County, receives some funds through the United Way of Freeborn County, the Minnesota Board on Aging and the Corporation for National and Community Service.