Nature and Purpose
The Huntington @ Symphony Program is a supported housing program for people living with HIV/AIDS. The Program is located in a 90 unit mixed-use, mixed population building on Huntington Ave. in Boston. Of the 90 units, 26 are subsidized for adults living with HIV/AIDS. The other units house market rate individuals, students, elderly people and condo owners, so our residents can rely on a sense of confidentiality. Each resident is capable of living independently and the unit is their home. Our residents come from all walks of life and were homeless prior to entering our program. Here they are provided with a safe living environment; a community of caring and support; and assistance with access to food, healthcare, substance abuse counseling and treatment, mental health counseling, legal aid, nutritional counseling, education, job placement and other aspects of daily living. One of the main objectives of partnerhsip with the PULSE Program is to be able to offer companionship and understanding to individuals who have been marginalized in society. The Huntington @ Symphony Program respects and honors each resident's basic human right to live his/her life with dignity.
We also run a second program within the same building, the Symphony Shared Living program, which houses and suports 11 mentally challenged elders. Volunteers may also offer support to these residents as needed..
Tasks
The volunteers will assist the case management staff with the following tasks:
• Providing emotional support to residents
• Accompanying residents to appointments
• Accompany residents to the grocery store, pharmacy, or other errands, as needed
• Performing errands for residents who may not be feeling well that day
• Soliciting donations from local vendors for holiday gifts and tickets to event that interest residents
• Planning special events and outings for the residents
• Assisting residents with life-building skills
• Researching and gathering information for residents on health care, educational options, job placement, etc.
Time Requirements
This placement is open to both one semester and full year students. Each PULSE student will be required to work 10 hours per week (which includes travel time). Hours are very flexible, but it is asked that you commit to a schedule for the entire semester. Day, night, and weekend hours are available, although early mornings and late afternoons (after 3:00) offer more interaction with the residents. Training on Home-Care, OSHA regulations, safety and program policies will be provided at the start of your placement. Your schedules, supervision and training will be coordinated by the Operations Manager.
Supervisor
Frank Lanzarone
Address
270 Huntington Avenue, Suite 401
Boston, MA 02115
Tel.: (617) 266-7040
Fax: (617) 266-8042
www.jri.org/programs/supported-housing-programs/symphony.php
Council Member
John Zarkauskas