My Story...

Some 30 years ago, a suggestion from a friend set me on a path I never expected. They encouraged me to take my saxophone to a nursing home and play music for the people living there. I had never stepped foot in a nursing home and didn’t know what to expect. The sight of people in wheelchairs, the silence in the halls—it was initially unsettling. But as I played familiar songs, the people began singing along, their faces lighting up with recognition. It touched something very deep in me.

Soon, I found myself scheduling regular visits, playing songs that people would know by heart. Over the years, I visited up to 170 nursing homes each year, building relationships with the people living there and those who cared for them. Through conversations with staff, I discovered what the people living in nursing homes needed most: one-on-one visits with someone who could listen, care, and share a connection. It was then that I knew I had a mission.

I began training volunteers, helping hundreds understand the unique needs of the people in nursing homes and preparing them to bring joy and companionship to those who needed it most. Today, with the support of an incredible Board of Directors and Advisory Board, all experts in aging and volunteerism, we’re ready to expand this effort nationwide through the National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers (NALTCV).

Why are Companion Volunteers in Long-Term Care So Important?

Companion volunteers in long-term care communities are more than just a helping hand—they are vital lifelines who bring connection and comfort to residents facing loneliness. These volunteers aren't simply visitors; they embody the essence of human connection, restoring dignity, self-worth, and hope just by being there.

Older woman

As one resident poignantly shared when asked about adjusting to her new home:

"I have a lot of people around me—nurses, aides—but there is no one here just for me."

This powerful statement is at the heart of the "Someone Just for Me" campaign. It’s not just about being surrounded by people; it’s about having someone who is truly there for you, someone who listens, cares, and shares in your life. Companion volunteers are the ones who fulfill that deeply human need for personal connection.

Imagine what it must feel like to believe that no one cares for or about you anymore. The people living in nursing homes are our mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters. Someday, it might be one of us.

For 92-year-old Clarence, the need for companionship touches something even deeper:

"To be human is to be loved and to have someone to love—and as far as I can tell, I am still human."

Clarence’s words remind us that the need for love, connection, and companionship remains throughout life, regardless of age.

Older man smiling

That’s where you come in.

By supporting the National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers (NALTCV), you help fight the loneliness felt by so many in these communities. Through the "Someone Just for Me" campaign and our slogan "One Hour, One Visit, One Heart" your generosity ensures that every person in long-term care has someone who is truly there for them. Just one hour of a volunteer’s time can be a lifeline to someone who desperately needs it.

With your help, we can ensure that no one is left feeling alone. Together, we can be their lifeline—one hour, one visit, one heart at a time.

Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!

Warm regards,

Paul P. Falkowski, Ph.D. President/Founder

The National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers is a 501(c)3 organization, EIN: 88-3915278

Your gift is tax-deductible.

Someone Just for Me

By National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers

Someone Just for Me

One Hour, One Visit, One Heart