November 18, 2026
WHEREAS, Older adults are rethinking retirement through volunteerism, and,
WHEREAS, Older adults demonstrate a high rate of volunteerism, contributing their time, skills, and experience to a wide range of community organizations, civic intiatives, and charitable causes, therby strengthening local communities and encriching the lives of others; as well as easing loneliness and isolation to senior companions living in their own homes, and,
WHEREAS, we must retain the talents and skills of the older adults who help communities in a variety of ways; and,
WHEREAS,, Michigan’s AmeriCorps Senior Companion programs provide low- income adults, ages 55 and older, challenging and meaningful volunteer opportunities in many counties throughout the state; and,
WHEREAS,, partnering with non-profit organizations, Senior Companion program meets a variety of personal and commnunity needs that make a positive difference; and,
WHEREAS,, in Michigan, Senior Companion volunteers contribute hours of service to older adults who have difficulty with daily living tasks and respite care to families. SC volunteers easing loneliness and isolation to seniors living in their own homes; and,
WHEREAS,, on this day, we join with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Behavioral and Physical Health and Aging Services Administration within MDHHS within to raise awareness of Michigan’s Senior Companion program and to recognize the outstanding service of senior companion volunteers currently serving throughout the state providing a positive impact. Their nurturing companionship and overall efforts have contibuted greatly to the lives of many older adults and families and have helped strenghten our communties;
NOW, THEREFORE, , I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim Wednesday, November 18, 2026 as Senior Companion Volunteer Day in Michigan.
