The Jefferson Area Board for Aging (JABA) is recruiting volunteers to help during 2026 Medicare Open Enrollment (October 15 – December 7). Each year, JABA volunteers help thousands of people navigate Medicare, saving the community millions of dollars on insurance and medication costs. Unbiased, certified volunteers assist in choosing a Medicare plan that best covers prescriptions or provide vital support to ensure the program runs smoothly. Ninety-nine percent of individuals who received Insurance Counseling would recommend the service to others. Last year, over 3,200 older adults saved $4.67 million on prescription costs. JABA’s team of over 80 volunteers made this free service possible.

One volunteer shares that, “My experience with the Open Enrollment Part D Insurance Counseling gets better every year. The people involved are top-notch, and the service provided is amazing and so appreciated. It’s one of the best things I can do every year to give back.” Ninety-five percent of JABA volunteers say that they value both the connections they make and their contributions to the community. With over 50,000 people aged 65 years or older in the region, the need for volunteer support continues to grow.

Volunteer Opportunities:

• Administrative Assistants answer phones and schedule appointments.
• Virtual Receptionists welcome clients to their Zoom appointments and connect them with the right Medicare counselor.
• Zoom Assistants connect to virtual appointments using computers at in-person JABA Centers.
• Receptionists greet clients at in-person locations, check them in, and make sure they’re directed to the right counselor.
• Medicare Counselors guide clients through a wide range of Medicare questions and concerns.

JABA provides training for every role, and you can participate in training before committing. Training begins soon, and there are volunteer opportunities throughout Central Virginia and virtually. Current volunteers are eager to grow their team:

“Volunteering with JABA has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I have seen how JABA makes a real difference in our community by being part of what goes on. The organization is thoughtful, compassionate, and deeply committed to the well-being of our community. I really enjoy being part of JABA and wish others that have the same drive and wish to make the community a better place contribute!”

To learn more, fill out a short application online or contact 434-817-5286 or volunteer@jabacares.org.

ABOUT JABA

JABA’s mission is to promote, establish and preserve sustainable communities for healthy aging that benefit individuals of all ages and their families. Aging services play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for people as they age and creating healthier communities. JABA (Jefferson Area Board for Aging) is a private, non-profit Area Agency on Aging serving community members of all income levels in Central Virginia. JABA was founded in 1975 and incorporated as a 501(c)(3)non-profit in 1986.