Singing Your Praises!

It’s that time of year again when we shine the spotlight even brighter on volunteers. It’s time to sing your praises! Every year we take the opportunity during National Volunteer Month to admire and applaud the contributions that volunteers bring to every community, in every location around the world. And every year we consider the impact by looking at the numbers. Here are a few estimates: around 30.3% of Americans volunteer; volunteer time in the States is currently valued at $28.54 per hour; it’s estimated that volunteers contribute nearly $200 billion in value to US communities. The numbers* continue to amaze.

Right here in Wisconsin, the SMP program in 2023 had 14 volunteers logging nearly 750 hours. This is a significant amount of time that the team devoted to the program, time spent on the road and speaking directly to people around the state about how they can protect themselves from Medicare fraud. The team also informed Medicare beneficiaries, along with caregivers and loved ones, on how to detect suspected fraud, and then how to report it. SMP relies on our volunteers to get these messages, and our pledge of support, out to older adults across the state.

However, the numbers only tell part of the story. As we sing your praises, we also recognize the essential value all of you bring to the program and to all those whom you encounter. And that value lies in the energy, the devotion, and enthusiasm you provide every day. The SMP program recognizes this and wants to thank every volunteer for what you do and what you bring to the role.

What makes this program a success is not only the time the volunteers put forth, but the compassion and commitment that you demonstrate every day. And we can’t say it enough about the volunteers. Thank you for choosing SMP as a place to put your time and interest. We appreciate you and your support.

If you would like to volunteer, or know someone who might be interested in volunteering, please view Join the SMP Volunteer Team! then go to Become A Volunteer – Wisconsin Senior Medicare Patrol to learn more or contact us at (888) 818-2166.

*Sources: US Census Bureau & Team Stage