About:
Silver Key’s V.E.T.S. (Veterans Engagement Togetherness Support) program provides volunteer companionship to senior Veterans and spouses in need of assistance so they remain living independently, in their own home and community, for as long as possible.
This program's mission is to provide low cost companionship to senior veterans in need of extra assistance so they remain living independently, in their own home and community, for as long as possible.
History:
This program began in 2018 through the Veterans Administration “Choose Home Initiative” in partnership with AmeriCorps Seniors when Silver Key was selected to participate in a national pilot program. This effort helped launch the service. That iteration of the initiative ended in 2021. Since its inception, the service has continued to evolve to what it is today.
Historical Resources
Silver Key Choose Home Initiative Program article is posted on the Official Blog of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and spotlights Silver Key's great program through the experiences of our Volunteer Ron Burge and Veteran Carl Roberts. The Silver Key V.E.T.S. program was also featured by the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System - read here.
Listen to the National Public Radio report interview about this national pilot program!
V.E.T.S. Today:
Today, the V.E.T.S. program is an intergrated offering aligned with our Reassurance+ service. This unqiue and culturally responsive variation of our Reassurance+ Companionship service is tailored to meet the distinct needs of the Veteran community which abounds in the Pikes Peak region.
Currently, the Silver Key V.E.T.S. program is looking for both volunteers and participants.
Program Requirements for Companionship Volunteers:
- Volunteers with a spirit to serve our senior Veterans
- Background checks, drug test, DMV test
- Required orientation and ongoing specialized training provided
Program Benefits for Senior Veterans:
- Volunteers are matched with Veterans for compatibility
- Light companionship provided at low cost (in-home visits, assistance with medical visits, grocery shopping, errands)
- Caregivers benefit knowing companionship is provided
- Less social isolation and loneliness
VOLUNTEER OR REGISTER FOR SERVICES
For more detailed information about the V.E.T.S. Companionship service, or if you are a senior Veteran in need of companionship, please contact our Silver Line at (719) 884-2300 or info@silverkey.org.