How to Volunteer
Many Americans, particularly older adults and those with disabilities, are having a hard time registering for or getting to the vaccine. Many in our community have stepped up to help.
Can I help older adults and people with disabilities in my community get vaccinated?
Yes. Throughout the country organizations are mobilizing to connect volunteers to agencies serving older adults, people with disabilities and others in need in their local communities. To find a volunteer opportunity near you, please visit:
- Repair the World to find a volunteer opportunity near you as well as a comprehensive toolkit for creating a vaccine appointment program in your community. A webinar offers details. For further questions about the Vaccine Appointment Network, email Repair the World at vaccineappointmentnetwork@werepair.org.
- Your local Jewish Family Service or other human service agency for additional volunteer options.
As a volunteer or as an organization coordinating volunteers, should I be concerned about privacy, security or other liability?
The Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act, commonly known as HIPAA, generally limits third-party transmission of certain protected health information to ensure people’s privacy and security. Due to the pandemic, however, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has issued guidance that allows volunteers to schedule vaccine appointments through at least the end of 2021 without incurring liability during the public health emergency.
What if I know someone who needs a ride to a vaccine appointment?
Those covered by Medicaid or Medicare should check their plan to determine whether they have coverage for non-emergency medical transportation and learn how to access it, but coverage varies from state to state. If available, this benefit can provide transportation to vaccination appointments.
With significant new federal funding provided through the American Rescue Plan Act, the Biden Administration announced the availability of state grants to expand transportation to vaccine appointments for older adults and people with disabilities. New state, local, and community resources for vaccine-related transportation are launching throughout the country and may already be available in your area. In addition, on May 11, the Biden Administration announced new efforts to expand access to the vaccine, including free rides to vaccine appointments from Lyft and Uber.
Other agencies that may be able to help arrange a ride: