Become a volunteer
Give a little of your time to visit, listen to or accompany an isolated elder, or to help at our collective activities.
- Visits and listening for elders
- Help organising activities and outings
- Support with steps and guidance
Get involved
How to act to break the isolation of our elders
There are many ways to support our work. Discover how you can get involved alongside us.
Your commitment changes lives
Time, a donation or a partnership: every contribution helps an older person out of isolation.
Make a donation
Your generosity is the engine of our action. With your support, we can accompany more isolated older people.
DonateBecome a partner
Companies, local authorities, associations: join our projects to fight the isolation of elders together.
Contact usWhat volunteering with DPI really involves
There is no single profile. Some volunteers give one hour a week to a single person; others help set up a Christmas meal once a year. What matters is reliability and warmth — not special qualifications.
You choose how you help, and we match it to your time, your neighbourhood and what you enjoy. You are never alone: a coordinator supports you, and you can talk through anything difficult with our team.
- Visit or phone an isolated elder, week after week
- Lend a hand at outings, meals and activities
- Help with reading post, forms and simple errands
- Offer a skill: driving, music, cooking, languages
Becoming a volunteer, step by step
The path is simple and there is no commitment until you feel ready.
- Get in touchSend us a message telling us a little about yourself and how much time you might have.
- Meet the teamWe talk through your wishes, answer your questions and explain the role and its boundaries.
- A gentle introductionWe introduce you to the person or activity, and stay alongside you for the first steps.
- Ongoing supportA coordinator stays in contact, and you can adjust your involvement whenever life changes.
What you get in return
Volunteering is not a one-way street. The people who give their time tell us it brings real meaning, new friendships and a strong sense of belonging.
- A warm welcome and a clear, supported role
- Guidance on listening, confidentiality and safety
- A coordinator to call whenever you need advice
- The company of a friendly, committed team
From our volunteers
I retired and suddenly my days felt empty. Now Tuesday is sacred — it is the day I visit Roger. He is waiting, and so am I.
FFrançois, 67Volunteer for 3 years
As a student I thought I had nothing to offer. It turns out an afternoon and a listening ear are worth a great deal to someone who is alone.
LLéa, 22Student volunteer
Questions before you start
How much time do I need to give?
As little as one or two hours a week, or simply a hand at occasional events. Regularity matters more than quantity, because it is the reliability that builds trust.
Do I need any qualifications or experience?
None at all. Kindness, patience and dependability are what count. We provide guidance and support for everything else.
Is there a minimum age to volunteer?
Volunteers come from every generation, from students to active retirees. Younger volunteers are welcome with a parent's agreement for certain activities.