In an effort to support seniors and caregivers trying to balance work and life while caring for a loved one, Community Partners in Caring is launching Heart and Hands! A Volunteer Recruitment Campaign, starting with an event at 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, at 1111 E. Mason St., Santa Barbara.

Community Partners in Caring works with community volunteers who are the “eyes, ears, and hands” of the agency. They provide critical non-medical support services, such as rides to the grocery store and/or medical appointments.

The program was created in 1997 as a support system for elder orphans who cannot access fee-based support services; for caregivers needing assistance in supporting a loved one; and for seniors struggling to maintain their independence after losing their driving privilege, said Vilma Contreras, the agency’s executive director.

“While we have a strong cadre of dedicated volunteers helping the senior population in a variety of ways, there are still hundreds of seniors aging in place without support,” she said. “That’s why we’re launching this campaign — to engage more people in this important work.”

At the event, attendees will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, coffee and tea while hearing staff talk about the needs of the senior population, the roles and responsibilities of volunteers, the support they receive, and the impact they can have in a senior’s life, Contreras said.

Community Partners in Caring recruits, screens, trains, supports and matches volunteers with seniors and families in need. Two hours per month of volunteering makes a world of a difference for those who have no-one to help them.

Various sessions are planned throughout the community. For current events, visit www.partnersincaring.org.

“Our trained, dedicated volunteers are the heart and hands of this agency,” Contreras said. “They help people stay connected to their community. They reduce the sense of isolation that sometimes comes when one loses their driving privilege.

“Together, we are supporting elder orphans, caregivers that need assistance caring for an older loved one, and people that want to maintain their independence as they age. By donating an average of just a few hours a month, volunteers help seniors get the help they need to age in place with dignity.”

Community Partners in Caring is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For more information, visit www.partnersincaring.org or call 805-925-8000.

— Elizabeth Franco for Community Partners in Caring.