We understand that living with ALS makes daily tasks more challenging. In order to make life a little easier, we created the Family Assistance Program. Through this program, we match trained volunteers with families affected by ALS to assist with tasks or be a friendly visitor.
What can volunteers help with?
- Preparing meals
- Mowing
- Gardening
- Pet Care
- Errands
- Grocery Shopping
- Basic Technology Setup or Training
- Online Care Calendar Setup or Management
- Hobbies
This list is not all-inclusive. If there is something else you would like help with, please ask and we will see if we can accommodate your request.
Is there anything a volunteer can't help with?
We will send you a list of program guidelines before connecting you with a volunteer. If you are considering the program, please know that volunteers cannot provide personal or medical care. Also, if the person living with ALS cannot be home alone, then a caregiver must be present while a volunteer is in the home.
How can I request assistance?
You can request assistance by filling out the Volunteer Request form AND the Agreement to Receive a Volunteer form linked below.
Volunteer Request Form: tell us how we can help
Agreement to Receive a Volunteer
Please be sure to submit both of the above forms so that your request is complete.
If you have any questions or need assistance with these forms, please contact our Volunteer Engagement Manager, Jenna Van Proosdy, at Jenna.VanProosdy@als.org or by calling her at 612-455-6052.
Who volunteers?
Most volunteers join the program due to a loved one with ALS. Some volunteers even used the program themselves and, knowing how helpful it was, want to help another family. We do have an 18-month waiting period for those who've experienced a close loss (spouse/partner, immediate family member, best friend, etc.) to allow people the time to process their own grief journeys. Family members of those currently being served by the ALS Association are also not eligible for Family Assistance volunteer opportunities (though they are welcome to participate in event or administrative roles at any time).
There is a small group of volunteers without a connection to ALS. Regardless of what brought the volunteer to the program, everyone who volunteers is interested in making a direct difference in people’s lives.
How are volunteers screened, trained, and supervised?
The screening process includes an application, an interview, reference checks, and a background check. Before being connected with a family, volunteers go through a thorough training about ALS, the ALS Association, and the Family Assistance Program. Volunteers receive an initial check-in two weeks after being connected with a family and on a monthly basis thereafter.
How can I volunteer?
If you would like to volunteer, please fill out the volunteer interest form linked below.
