Clarence Valley residents are being invited to explore the Australian Red Cross Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) which connects caring and enthusiastic volunteers with senior citizens who benefit from their friendship and companionship. With senior citizens at a higher risk of experiencing loneliness and isolation which impacts their mental wellbeing and physical health, the ACVVS aims to boost their social interaction. Volunteers are matched with individuals aged 65 and above based on shared interests, hobbies, and preferences, and participants may reside in a residential aged care facility or live independently in their own home and have been assessed for a Home Care Package. Visits are scheduled to take place each fortnight, though weekly visits are strongly encouraged, with volunteers and participants enjoying playing cards and board games, reminiscing, walking, gardening, or even having a cuppa and a chat with one another. For volunteers with the ACVVS, the bonds they form with an older person can be equally rewarding, and their company can have a profound impact on someone else’s life. For more information on ACVVS, or if you would like to volunteer, please call Teesh Smith on 0415 709 920 or email teesmith@redcross.org.au