The generosity that our volunteers provide through their energy, time, and support is unmatched and very much appreciated. We have numerous different roles you can choose from if you’d like to volunteer at Alzheimer’s San Diego, from interacting with people living with dementia and their care partners one-on-one to assisting with our social activities and fundraising events. Visit our volunteer page to learn more about each of the positions listed below.
ALZ Ally Volunteer
Some ALZ Ally volunteers make friendly calls, while others visit clients in their homes, accompany them on outings, or deliver food. You can choose any combination of these volunteer opportunities based on your interests, comfort level, and availability. You may choose to do just one, or participate in multiple ways.
Even a short phone call or friendly visit can help someone feel connected, supported, and less alone. You don’t need to have personal experience with dementia or caregiving to become a volunteer. All volunteers receive dementia training before being matched with a client.
Companion Volunteer
Your visits give family caregivers a much-needed break, whether they need time to run errands, attend an appointment, meet a friend, or simply recharge. A few hours of your time can give a family caregiver the opportunity to take a break while helping a person living with dementia stay connected, engaged, and supported in their own home.
You don’t need to have personal experience with dementia or caregiving to become a volunteer in our ALZ Companion program. All volunteers receive dementia training before being matched with a family.
Education Assistants
You’ll be an important part of making sure education classes run smoothly and that attendees have a positive experience. This is a flexible position where you can sign up for classes or events that you are interested in. No previous experience with dementia or event support is required.
Social Activity Assistants
Our programs include activities such as music therapy, dementia-friendly exercise classes, gardening, games, and other opportunities to socialize and have fun. As a volunteer, you’ll help set up activities and help participants feel comfortable during them.
You don’t need to be an expert or have experience with dementia. Just bring your enthusiasm, patience, and willingness to connect with others. View our activity calendar to see upcoming sessions you can lend a hand at.
Support Group Facilitators
As a facilitator, you’ll guide support group conversations, encourage participation, and help create an environment where people feel comfortable sharing their experiences. You’ll build relationships with group members over time and become a consistent source of support.
This is a long-term volunteer role. We ask facilitators to commit to at least 12 months. You don’t need to have personal experience with dementia or group facilitation to become a facilitator. Comprehensive training is provided by the Support Group Program Manager.
Walk4ALZ Volunteers
Open to all
Help the 100,000 San Diegans living with dementia and their care partners by volunteering to help make Walk4ALZ a success. Volunteers can choose from many areas, from assisting with registration/check-in, helping guide participants on the course, handing out water, cheering on participants as they cross the finish line, and more. This is a great opportunity for groups, families, and anyone who’s passionate about supporting people living with dementia and their care partners in the San Diego community.
Visit our volunteer page to learn more about these positions and how to volunteer at Alzheimer’s San Diego. View our free services like education classes, support groups, social activities, & more. You may also call our office at 858.492.4400 to speak with one of our Dementia Care Coaches (Spanish speakers available).
By Braulio Ambriz
RECOMMENDED – Social Activities Volunteers: What is the program like?
Updated on September 22nd, 2026 / Originally published in 2024
