A senior peer counseling program that reaches out to older adults in Calaveras County who may be suffering from depression or isolation is in desperate need of more volunteers, according to Brock Kolby, a case manager for the county's Behavioral Health Services.

"We specifically need more help for persons who reside in the areas of West Point, Arnold and Copperopolis," Kolby said.

Men and women age 55 and older who are interested in becoming senior peers are screened, trained and supervised by professional counseling staff. An informational meeting for new volunteers will be held Jan. 30 at 1 p.m. at the Behavioral Health Services Mental Health Clinic at the government center in San Andreas. The next senior peer program training course begins Feb. 11 and meets twice a week through March 19. Volunteers are reimbursed for their mileage.

Kolby explained that during the six-week training course, senior peers learn to assist with aging issues, grief, loss, depression and communication. Senior peers help other seniors by providing assistance with community resources and referrals to in-depth counseling if desired. Services are provided at no cost.

"Senior peers make confidential one-on-one home visits and develop unique, supportive relationships based on trust and understanding," Kolby said. "There's a bond that comes with being similar in age and experience."

"Growing older may bring the death of a spouse, an illness, feelings of helplessness or isolation," said Senior Peer Program Coordinator Marilu Cloudwalker. "The senior peer program is available to help people through difficult times."

For more information or to receive senior peer counseling, call Cloudwalker at 754-6642.