NeighborLNK Program

The program is designed to help keep homebound residents healthy, connected, and independent during the isolation required by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to cultivate bonds of friendship that could potentially last beyond the pandemic. Volunteers are paired with homebound adults (age 60 and over) or persons with disabilities to perform simple errands, such as grocery and medication delivery, and to offer companionship through phone or video calls. COVID-19 precautions will be followed, and volunteers will not enter participants' homes

At this time, only seniors (age 60 and over) and residents with disabilities may request services through this program.

Healthy volunteers must complete an application packet and email the completed packet to NeighborLNK@lincoln.ne.gov. After the information is reviewed, a program representative will contact you via email or phone with the next steps.

No, the City covers the cost. Background checks are necessary to protect all involved and may take up to five business days.

Aging Partners staff will review all volunteer applications and assistance requests. People will be paired based upon location and services requested. Once a pairing is made, both parties will be notified by phone, text, and/or email.

Volunteer training conducted by the City will provide resources on appropriate COVID-19 social distancing practices, face covering protocols, how to stay healthy, and when to inform the City of any health concerns. Volunteers will be trained on how to provide services without being in direct contact with the participant or entering their home.

Volunteers are not employees of the City of Lincoln and are not entitled to benefits such as wages, workers' compensation, paid time off, insurance, retirement, or other benefits. Any personal homeowners, auto, health, and umbrella insurance you have will be the primary coverage in the event of any injuries or loss.

Volunteers must be at least age 19 to participate in the program at this time.

There are two ways to request services:

• Fill out the application packet(PDF, 624KB) and email the completed application to NeighborLNK@lincoln.ne.gov.
• Call 402-441-7575 to request an application packet. The packet will be emailed to you or mailed with a return envelope. If staff are not available to answer your call, leave a voicemail message with your name and address.

Volunteers can help with errands and provide companionship through video/phone calls and other remote interactions. Volunteers may shop for and deliver groceries, as well as deliver medications and library books. These services must be paid for in advance by the person requesting the service. Volunteers will not enter homes due to COVID-19 precautions and social distancing requirements.

The safety of our community is our highest priority. All NeighborLNK volunteers complete a background check. Volunteers know they are not allowed in your home, so please do not invite anyone inside. If you have any doubts or questions, contact Aging Partners at 402-441-7575. Volunteers are trained on how to handle these situations and are happy to wait until their identities are confirmed. Feel free to raise your concerns to volunteers. You may also email NeighborLNK@lincoln.ne.gov, but a response may take up to three business days due to the current pandemic situation.

Please note any special requirements on your application. Efforts will be made to accommodate you.

The City will work to ensure a mutually beneficial match is made, but we understand that sometimes the fit isn't quite right. Please email NeighborLNK@lincoln.ne.gov or call 402-441-7575 to request a different volunteer or for help with the program.

Please allow two to three business days for a telephone or email response to your request.