Volunteer
Volunteer Advocate Program
Did you find this video helpful? Complete the Volunteer Resident Advocate video feedback form .
Watch the audio described version of the Volunteer Resident Advocate Program video .
One of the most successful ways the Ombudsman program helps residents is through its Volunteer Resident Advocate Program. Community volunteers are trained by Ombudsman staff in residents’ rights, problem solving, interviewing skills, negotiating, working with nursing home staff, and the health care system.
After training, Volunteer Advocates are asked to spend 4 hours per week in one assigned nursing home and help residents solve problems or address concerns.
The Volunteer may speak to the dietitian about a resident’s desire for a change in diet, let the nurse know a resident needs more timely assistance, or discuss with the administrator a resident’s idea for weekend activities. Volunteer Advocates and Ombudsman staff support quality of life for residents by listening to and working for residents’ needs and interests and helping residents and families work with nursing home staff to make changes that improve nursing home life. They help residents, their families, and staff communicate better with each other.
Volunteer Advocates are enriched by making new friendships, gaining increased understanding of aging and the aging process, and by the satisfaction of knowing they are making a real difference in the lives of others.
Program Resources
Volunteer Resident Advocate Recruitment Materials
Interested in Joining Our Team?
If you would like to learn more about our program and speak with a representative directly, email the Ombudsman program about becoming a Volunteer Resident Advocate . Please provide your contact information, and an Ombudsman program staff member will reach out to discuss the program with you personally.
Apply Now
Apply online to become a Volunteer Resident Advocate
If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Resident Advocate, please complete the online application at the link above or return the following application documents linked below (Application Form, Verification Form, Conflict of Interest Screening Form, and two completed Reference Forms) via email to the Long Term Care Ombudsman’s Office at LTCOP@CT.GOV.
You can also contact the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program for assistance by phone at 860-424-5200 or 1-866-388-1888.
Once all documents are submitted to the office, we can begin the application review process. The application review is a lengthy process and may take up to 60 days depending on the number of applicants. Upon completion of the review, a representative of the program will contact you regarding the status of your application.
Application Documents
- Volunteer Resident Advocate Application
- Volunteer Resident Advocate Verification Form
- Volunteer Resident Advocate Reference Form
- Conflict of Interest Screening Form (PDF)
Per Connecticut statutes, regulations, and program policy, individuals who work, live in, or own a long-term care facility, and persons who receive any financial compensation from a nursing home, cannot participate in the program. Potential volunteers who have family members residing in a nursing facility are restricted from acting as a Volunteer Resident Advocate in the home where their family member resides.
Forms
- Volunteer Resident Advocate Monthly Facility Checklist (DOC) Last Updated Oct 2025
- Volunteer Resident Advocate Monthly Facility Checklist (PDF) Last Updated Oct 2025
- Volunteer Resident Advocate Mileage Reimbursement Form