Volunteer

What You’ll Do
Help facilitate MiGen programs by welcoming participants, supporting discussions, assisting with activities, and serving as a point of contact during the program. Volunteers may also help answer questions and communicate participant needs or concerns to MiGen staff.

Depending on the program format, facilitators may assist with setting up and breaking down event spaces or hosting virtual Zoom meetings.

Requirements

• Reliable transportation to in-person programs and/or access to a device with internet access for virtual programs

Time Commitment
Most programs meet monthly. Availability varies by program.

What You’ll Do
Support MiGen events by assisting with setup and cleanup, welcoming attendees, helping with activities, encouraging conversation, and assisting with event logistics. Event Support Volunteers work alongside MiGen staff or event facilitators to help create a positive experience for participants.

Requirements

• Reliable transportation to events

Time Commitment
As needed. Most events occur less than once per month.

What You’ll Do
Help reduce social isolation by building meaningful connections with LGBTQ+ older adults through regular phone calls. Volunteers are matched with participants based on shared interests and availability and commit to maintaining contact over time.

Volunteers receive training, program guidelines, and ongoing support from MiGen. Personal phone numbers are protected through the calling system used by the program.

Requirements

• Personal phone
• Ability to commit to weekly, biweekly, or monthly calls for at least three months
• Completion of program orientation and volunteer agreement

Time Commitment
Weekly, biweekly, or monthly calls for a minimum of three months.s

What You’ll Do
Assist with monthly food deliveries by transporting food boxes directly to clients’ homes. Volunteers help ensure community members have access to nutritious food and essential resources.

Requirements

• Personal vehicle with space to transport food boxes
• Ability to lift and carry boxes weighing approximately 15–25 pounds

Time Commitment
Typically monthly, depending on food provider schedules.

What You’ll Do
Provide food assistance by picking up food from local food pantries and delivering it directly to clients. Volunteers may also communicate with clients regarding food preferences when available.

Requirements

• Personal vehicle
• Ability to lift and carry boxes weighing approximately 15–25 pounds

Time Commitment
As needed or on a recurring basis, depending on pantry schedules and client needs.

What You’ll Do
Represent MiGen at community events such as Pride festivals, senior expos, resource fairs, and other public events. Volunteers help distribute information, answer basic questions about MiGen’s programs and services, encourage newsletter sign-ups, and assist with event setup and teardown.

Requirements

• Reliable transportation
• Ability to transport tabling materials when staff are not present

Time Commitment
As needed throughout the year.

What You’ll Do
Support MiGen’s Statewide Outreach efforts by helping identify and verify LGBTQ+-affirming resources throughout Michigan. Volunteers assist with research for the Rainbow Resource Guide, a growing collection of trusted resources that will be shared with community members, partner organizations, and the public.

Research may focus on healthcare providers, mental health services, legal assistance, housing resources, and other community supports.

Requirements

• Computer and internet access
• Google account and familiarity with Google Sheets
• Comfort contacting organizations to gather information

Time Commitment
Flexible and project-based.

What You’ll Do
Help aging adults explore long-term supports and services, future planning options, and major life transitions. Volunteer counselors provide guidance and information while helping participants identify solutions that align with their goals, preferences, and needs.

Requirements

• Completion of state-required PCOC training
• Participation in shadowing opportunities with certified counselors
• Computer and internet access

Time Commitment
Volunteer counselors provide monthly availability for appointments conducted by phone, virtually, or in person.

What You’ll Do
Assist Medicare beneficiaries in understanding their healthcare coverage, comparing plan options, reviewing prescription drug plans, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and understanding available benefits. Volunteers also help educate clients about Medicare fraud prevention and related resources.

Requirements

• Completion of state-required SHIP training and certification
• Participation in shadowing opportunities with certified counselors
• Computer and internet access

Time Commitment
Volunteer counselors provide monthly availability for appointments conducted by phone, virtually, or in person. The highest need typically occurs during Medicare Open Enrollment (October–March).