The Central Minnesota Council on Aging will host a three-day training in September in St. Cloud for persons interested in becoming counselors in the State Health Insurance and Assistance Program.
Counselors are needed in Wright, Stearns, Todd, Wadena, Sherburne, Mille Lacs, Isanti, Kanabec, Chisago, Pine, Benton, Morrison, Crow Wing and Cass counties.
Counselors will help Medicare consumers, their families and caregivers better understand Medicare options by providing information and referrals regarding resources. Counselors will also help consumers complete paperwork to enroll in programs that could assist with health insurance costs and reduce prescription costs. These programs may include Medical Assistance, Medicare Savings Programs, Energy Assistance and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
Persons interested in volunteering to assist Medicare consumers are asked to enroll in the free three-day training, "Core Body of Knowledge," where they will receive 18 hours of classroom learning. The next training will be in the St. Cloud area on Sept. 7, 9 and 13. Registration is limited to 10 volunteers, and will be accepted through Aug. 26. For a registration packet, contact Brenda Wuebkers at 320-253-9349.
Volunteers will receive staff support, guidance and ongoing training as they provide assistance, outreach and one-on-one counseling.
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To seek assistance with any area concerning Minnesota seniors and their caregivers, call the Senior Linkage Line at 800-333-2433 or go to www.MinnesotaHelp.info to chat live with a Senior Linkage Line specialist.
