MISSISSIPPI STATE – Recruitment is under way for people to become Smart Aging: Healthy Futures volunteers to help promote healthy living among seniors in their communities.

Training is scheduled from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. on April 1. The session will be at the Lauderdale County Extension office located on the fifth floor of 410 Constitution Ave. in Meridian. The deadline to apply is March 30.

Sponsored by the Mississippi State University Extension Service, this program is modeled after other successful Extension efforts that value trained volunteers as a way to increase educational outreach in communities across Mississippi.

Applicants need no prior experience to participate, but they must have a love for their community, a willingness to learn and share their knowledge with seniors, and a personal commitment to volunteerism. It is ideal for individuals who enjoy talking with people, get excited about helping others, or want to share health messages with seniors in their communities.

Volunteers participate in one-day instructional training on health-related topics such as oral health; breast, prostate and colorectal cancer awareness; and self-care. Other topics concentrate on personal goal setting and leadership.

In return for the training, volunteers agree to complete 20 hours of related community service. Volunteers interested in the program should contact their local county Extension office or Ann Sansing, community health coordinator, at (662) 325-4043 or asansing@ext.msstate.edu.

Writer: Ann Sansing