LSS Better Together

Since 2015, Lutheran Social Services has brought older adults ages 65 and up together with trained volunteers. The LSS Better Together program matches elderly adults with volunteers in Minnehaha, Lincoln and Brookings counties. This program is part of our independent adult services and helps to establish trusting relationships and regular social opportunities between older adults who live on their own and LSS volunteers.

Volunteer or Become a Neighbor

Better Together matches older adults ages 65 and up, called “Neighbors,” with volunteers to provide socialization, friendship, share resources and build a relationship.

To become a Neighbor or a Better Together volunteer with this LSS program, just fill out the online or print application.

About Our Independent Adult Services

Better Together is an independent adult service with the purpose of providing aging adults who live on their own with long-term relationships and neighborly activities.

In the Better Together program, an older adult Neighbor and their assigned volunteer will spend four hours per month participating in social activities. Volunteers and Neighbors can enjoy a variety of activities together, such as playing cards, going for walks, seeing a movie or play, going shopping, or simply drinking coffee and talking.

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Since the requirement for each Volunteer is four hours per month, Better Together is a very accommodating volunteer opportunity. Neighbors are located throughout the community, meaning volunteers can be matched up with a Neighbor located in their very own neighborhood. Volunteers can spend time with their Neighbors at a mutually agreed upon time.

LSS receives applications from Neighbors throughout the community who would like the extra opportunity to socialize every month. LSS next does an in-home visit with each new Neighbor. Every volunteer is screened and trained prior to meeting with their match. Volunteers and Neighbors are matched together based on interests, preferences and location in the community.

There is no cost to join Better Together. Volunteers and Neighbors simply commit to spending time together each month.

LSS Better Together Benefits to Older Adults

• Creates an active older adult community that will foster a sense of belonging among participants
• Decreases loneliness and isolation
• Improves self-esteem by developing meaningful relationships
• Alleviates some of the depression that comes with aging
• Connects generations together

Better Together is an exciting and satisfying volunteer opportunity. This program promotes intergenerational connection among the participants, and exists with the goal of building social relationships between them.