Free speakers for seniors groups?

Question

I am hospital based in my work as a recreation officer. It has been suggested that I find speakers to talk to the patients as a group. Motivational, information or just fun. Maybe even entertainers. The problem is that it must be fee free. Any ideas on how to find such people? The patients are all over 65 and depressed.

Answer 1

It will take a bit of time to figure out what sorts of presentations and entertainment is available in your community; but I'm confident that you can find some people willing to donate their time.

Start by looking "In House". Does your hospital offer any 'wellness' presentations? For example; a presentation about fitness activities for senior citizens might work well with the group you describe. Or how about a presentation on nutrition? Does your hospital have a volunteer program; sometimes called an Auxillary Program? Speak with the program director-there may be volunteers who have a talent or is able to give a presentation.

Contact your local area agency on aging. This group should have a list of presenters for several topics.

Check with your local city, county, or state governments for presenters/speakers bureaus. Topics might include wildlife presentations, nutrition, crime prevention, fire safety, recreational opportunities for seniors, gardening, etc.

Check public libraries, bookstores, museums, and historical societies to see if they have any presenters. You might even find some volunteer story tellers.

Check out local theater groups, music or choral groups, etc. Are there any local professional sports teams? Our local basketball team does free communtiy appearances.

Look for local civic clubs; Lions Club, Toastmasters, Kiwanis, etc. Or even military and veteran's associations; like the VFW.

Many youth groups seek out opportunities to do volunteer work. Scouts, youth orchestras, Boys and Girls Clubs, youth chorus, youth theater groups, etc.

Have fun, I bet you'll find folks to help you out!

Answer 2

What about speech and drama classes from high school? Also, lots of middle and high school students have to make PowerPoints about the topics they're studying. The kids might get community service hours for presenting these to your folks. It would be great practice for the kids and fun/educational for older people to see what kids are learning about.

Answer 3

If your clientele would benefit from any health based knowledge, I know many communities have free presentations through their health department.

Here the health department offers a wide variety of topics.