Expands volunteerism by making use of AARP's database and institutes volunteer certificate programs

BILL NUMBER:S5396

Title of bill

An act to amend the elder law, in relation to volunteer programs

Purpose or general idea of bill

To increase opportunities for older New Yorkers to volunteer their time in meaningful ways.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 of the bill amends subdivision 7 of section 203 of the elder law, which deals with the general powers and duties of the State Office for the Aging (SOFA), is amended to authorize SOFA to enter into a contract with one or more statewide organizations in order to establish a volunteer databank, and to establish, replicate, or encourage the development of training programs for such volunteers and the programs and services that make use of them. In addition, the section requires SOFA to establish guidelines, including for confidentiality and access to the data, and to establish and replicate a model training curriculum for not-for-profits organizations and volunteers, whose purpose shall be to train volunteers, and to train not-for-profit organizations in ways of effectively and efficiently using volunteers. In developing the curriculum SOFA may consult and work with individuals and entities with appropriate expertise at the State University of New York and the City University of New York.

Section 2 of the bill establishes the effective date.

Justification

Many older New Yorkers are looking for opportunities to volunteer in a meaningful way; and many not-for-profit organizations would use volunteers if they could be effectively and efficiently employed. This legislation allows for the creation of a wide-ranging database and training that would help match volunteers with organizations that can effectively use their talents.

Prior legislative history

2009: A07914 (Kavanagh) - Aging 2010: A07914 (Kavanagh) - Aging

Fiscal implications for state and local governments

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately, provided that the powers and duties established in paragraph (b) of subdivision 7 of section 203 of the elder law as added by this act shall be effective on and after the first of April occurring at least one year after the date on which this act shall have become a law.