How Legacy Corps Is Fighting Isolation and Supporting Idaho’s Aging Military Families
Idaho’s senior population is growing, and with it, the need for meaningful support services. For many older adults and family caregivers, especially those in military households, companionship and relief can be hard to come by. That’s where Aging Strong, a nonprofit program under JANNUS, steps in with heart, purpose, and 50 years of local experience in the Treasure Valley and Idaho. Aging Strong established the Legacy Corps Caregiver Support program to fill this need.
Volunteer Companionship for Military Families
One of Aging Strong’s most impactful programs is Legacy Corps Caregiver Support, which pairs volunteers with military families to provide non-medical companionship. The goal? Give full-time caregivers a much-needed break and offer older adults meaningful social connections.
Volunteers aren’t just helpers, they’re lifelines. Many participants go days without seeing anyone outside their household. A weekly visit, even just for a few hours, can offer essential emotional support. Whether it’s a friendly chat, a museum visit, or feeding ducks at the park, these moments matter.
Aging Volunteers Making a Difference
Legacy Corps volunteers average 72 years old, and their life experience brings depth and empathy to each visit. Some are veterans themselves, making veteran-to-veteran matches especially powerful. These conversations often go deeper than family members can reach, creating bonds based on shared service and understanding.
Lisa Underwood, the local program coordinator, says, “This program is about honoring families who’ve sacrificed and supporting them in everyday ways.” You can visit agingstrong.org to learn more.
Thorough Training and Ongoing Support
Interested in volunteering? Legacy Corps offers thorough onboarding, including multiple background checks and a five-hour training session. Volunteers continue to receive monthly education and support to keep improving their impact.
From McCall to the Treasure Valley, the program continues to grow. Families are encouraged to join the waitlist even if there’s no immediate opening in their area.
More Ways to Get Involved
In addition to Legacy Corps, Aging Strong offers volunteer opportunities through:
- The Foster Grandparent Program, which places older adults in classrooms
- Dementia support groups
- Caregiver workshops
- Monthly veteran gatherings with hundreds of attendees
Volunteers often say they get more than they give. The emotional reward of helping others while staying active and engaged is immeasurable. As Lisa puts it, “You age strong by staying purposeful.”
Want to Learn More?
🌐 Visit agingstrong.org
🎧 Listen to our Senior Matters Podcast interview with the Legacy Corps program coordinator
