Paving the way for Portland, Maine,
neighbors to age in place

Q:  Who can become a member?

A:  Membership is open to individuals who are over 60 years of age or disabled, and live in the Greater Portland area.  Members must be capable and self-sufficient enough to meet their own needs in the following ways:

• Making key decisions about your own life and coordinating your own support needs, unless there is an active and involved support person.
• Meeting your own personal care needs and activities of daily living, either by self-care or with caregiver support.
• Reliably communicating with Independent Seniors Network staff and volunteers, either by phone or email.
• If requesting services in your residence, your residence must present no known threats to health or safety.
• If requesting transportation services, you must be able to get in and out of the vehicle on your own.  

Members are also expected to treat volunteers, staff, and other members with respect and consideration at all times.

Q:  Is there a membership fee?

A:  Members pay an annual membership fee to Independent Seniors Network. The fee covers a portion of the operating expenses. Individual fees are $300 and Household fees are $375. Some scholarships are available for lower-income members.

Q:  Who provides the services?

A:  Volunteers who receive training and undergo background checks. Please see our Volunteer With Us page for details Volunteer With Us. For services beyond the scope of our volunteers, we will make available resources for members to contact.

Q:  How does the service work?

A:  Members call the office and leave a message with full details of the service they are requesting, including the day & time and what they need. A volunteer coordinator will identify a volunteer who can perform the service and let the member know who it will be. Requests should be made 7-10 days prior to the date in order for the coordinator to confirm a volunteer.  

Q:  Who can become a volunteer?

A:  Anyone can become a volunteer after undergoing a background check and training. Volunteers can choose the types of services they would like to provide and how often.

Q:  How is the Independent Seniors Network funded?

A:  In addition to the membership dues, donations, grants, and fundraising provide financial support.