Missoula Villages Membership Handbook
Welcome
Welcome to Missoula Villages. We are a community where neighbors help neighbors, working together to support aging in place through community, connection, and shared support. Missoula Villages is a program of Missoula Aging Services (MAS).
This handbook provides an overview of Missoula Village’s mission, goals, and program guidelines. It also includes helpful resources, tips, and references to support you in fostering meaningful connections and promoting independence through social engagement.
Because it’s impossible to anticipate every situation, special circumstances not covered in this handbook will be addressed by the Missoula Villages Leadership Council and the Missoula Aging Services staff. Policies may evolve as the program grows, and updates will be shared promptly.
Mission Statement:
Our mission is to enhance Missoula’s vibrant neighborhoods by promoting aging in place with dignity, independence, and engagement through a trusted network of services, social connections, and community driven resource exchange.
Guiding principles reflect program goals, not contractual obligations.
Activities and services may vary based on resources and volunteer availability.
Guiding Principles:
● Intergenerational Connection: Building bonds across generations by sharing skills and experiences that strengthen community ties.
● Service Exchange: Helping each other by sharing time and abilities thus promoting a sense of purpose and self-worth.
● Cultural and Social Events: Offering activities that encourage connection and growth, and combat isolation.
● Community Partnerships: Collaborating with local business and partner organizations to provide notice of services, community activities, and resources.
● Information Access: Serving as a trusted and reliable resource for members.
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What Is Missoula Villages?
Missoula Villages is a neighbor to neighbor, community driven program designed to help older adults remain independent and engaged while living in the homes they choose.
Missoula Villages is:
● A community-based program that helps older adults stay in their homes and enhance their connection to the community.
● A resource for mutual support, social engagement and access to trusted assistance.
Missoula Villages is not:
● A healthcare or in-home services provider.
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Membership Eligibility
Membership is open to individuals who:
● Are age 60 or older
● Live in Missoula County
● Live independently but would appreciate social connection and/or occasional light support
● Successfully pass a background check
Agency Discretion
Missoula Aging Services (MAS) is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all program participants, volunteers, and staff. To protect the wellbeing of our community, MAS reserves the right, at their sole discretion, to approve or deny membership applications for any of their programs.
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Membership Benefits
As a member of Missoula Villages, you have access to:
Connection & Engagement
● Regular opportunities for meaningful social connection
● Programs such as Neighborly Connections Check-In Circles
● Member-led and partner-hosted activities
Events & Activities
Access to a curated events calendar featuring:
● Community partner events
● Classes and workshops
● Member-organized activities
Assistance Requests
Members may request assistance up to 5 times per month for:
● Transportation to appointments
● Technology help
● Light home maintenance
● Errands and everyday tasks
● Other tasks as approved and added by Leadership Council
Trusted Referrals
Members may access a member-generated list of:
● Contractors
● Vendors
● Service providers
Some providers may offer discounts and/or specialized services.
Support for Families
● Membership offers peace of mind for families through:
o Regular check-ins
o Community connection
o Reduced isolation
Services NOT Provided
Missoula Villages does not provide:
● Medical care or personal care
● Emergency response services
● Financial assistance
● Financial or legal advice
● Heavy or skilled home repairs
● Services to family members or friends of members
● Services outside of Missoula County
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How to Request Help
To request assistance:
Submit your request through the Missoula Villages website.
Submit your request at least 5 days in advance when possible.
Other members and volunteers will see your request and fill it when possible.
Missoula Villages is not an emergency service. In case of emergency, call 911 or your emergency contact.
Missoula Village is built on the principle of mutual support. The reciprocity model ensures that members and volunteers both contribute and benefit, creating a balanced and sustainable community. This model is not just about receiving help—it’s about fostering a culture where everyone has something valuable to offer.
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Service Requests
For Members Volunteering Services
● Record every service provided (e.g., transportation, home chores, companionship, event support) in the Missoula Villages website immediately after completion.
● Logging hours ensures:
o Documentation of your contributions.
o Accurate reporting for insurance coverage and program evaluation.
o Transparency and accountability within Missoula Villages.
For Members Receiving Services
● Confirm services received by acknowledging completed tasks in the Missoula Villages website.
● This helps:
o Maintain accurate service records.
o Support fair distribution of resources.
o Strengthen the reciprocal service exchange model.
Why It’s Important
● Demonstrates Impact: Logged hours show the collective effort of volunteers and members, helping us illustrate the bigger picture of community support.
● Secures Funding: Accurate data supports grant applications and funding opportunities by proving program effectiveness.
● Improves Services: Tracking hours helps identify trends, measure outcomes, and improve future offerings.
● Builds Community: Every logged hour reflects a connection made and a life enriched.
In the works: Hours can be redeemed for extra services within the network
A system is being developed in which a member could “bank” hours by offering services to others. This bank could be drawn upon in times of need such as an illness or surgery recovery to provide extra support over a limited time. This bank could also be donated to others in times of need.
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Member Responsibilities
Members are expected to:
● Communicate respectfully with staff, volunteers, and other members
● Use services appropriately and within program guidelines
● Provide reasonable notice for cancellations
● Follow safety guidelines during visits or rides
● Respect confidentiality and privacy
● Participate in providing services to others
● Respect each members boundaries
Violations may result in:
● Verbal warning
● Termination of membership
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Membership Fees & Financial Assistance
● Membership fee: $25 per month -individuals. $40 per month - households of two.
o Special introductory rates may apply. Please refer to your membership agreement for specifics.
● Payment options: Credit card
● Payments due in advance for a 6-month period
● Financial assistance or reduced-fee memberships are not available at this time.
● Membership fees help support
o Program operations
o Volunteer coordination
o Community-wide connection and support
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Ending of Services
● Leadership Council Decision
o The Leadership Council may terminate membership if a member’s behavior or actions include, but are not limited to, harm to others, criminal prosecution, misuse of volunteer or member provided services, needs that are more than the Villages can support.
o A prorated refund may be issued at the Council’s discretion.
● Member Decision
o Members may terminate their membership at any time, but prorated refunds will only be made in the event of extenuating circumstances such as relocating outside the county, moving to a care facility, increased care needs, or death.
o Membership may be paused during an extended hospital or rehabilitation stay, or during extended travel. In these situations, prior or timely notification is required. No refund will be issued, but the membership term will be extended accordingly.
o Membership will auto-renew at the end of each 6-month period unless 30 days written notice of termination is submitted.
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Safety & Liability
● Members participate at their own risk
● Missoula Villages does not assume liability for any harm to body or property arising from membership, including but not limited to participation in activities, receiving services, engaging a member-recommended vendor, or associating with other members or volunteers.
● By signing the Membership Agreement you state that you have read and agree to the following items:
Activity Agreement
By participating in activities offered through Missoula Villages and our partner organizations, I understand and agree that:
● I am responsible for determining whether an activity is appropriate for my health and abilities.
● Some events may have limited space, and participation is not guaranteed.
● Certain activities may include additional fees charged by partner organizations; these fees are not covered by my membership, and Missoula Villages cannot issue refunds on their behalf.
● My personal insurance is the primary coverage for any injury-related accidents.
Service Request Agreement
I understand that all service requests are fulfilled by fellow members or volunteers:
● Missoula Villages may not be able to fulfill every request, depending on availability. If a request cannot be filled, I will be notified as soon as possible so I can make other arrangements.
● Members and volunteers are not professional service providers and cannot be held to professional standards. If professional-quality work is required, I will seek outside services.
● I will treat all members and volunteers with dignity, respect, and gratitude.
Transportation Agreement
Members or volunteers offering transportation agree to the following requirements:
● A current and valid driver’s license, insurance, and vehicle registration must be on file with Missoula Aging Services.
● A clear driving record must be maintained.
● I will follow all federal, state, and local traffic laws.
● I will ensure all passengers use seat belts or appropriate safety restraints.
● I will not use a cell phone or text while driving and will minimize distractions.
● I will keep my vehicle in safe working condition.
● I will immediately report any moving violations resulting in conviction, suspension, or license revocation.
● I have disclosed all past relevant violations.
● I will maintain up-to-date auto insurance.
● I understand that MAS liability coverage is secondary and applies only after my personal insurance.
Concerns or incidents should be reported to:
Missoula Villages at Missoula Aging Services (406)728-7682
Firearms
If a member or volunteer is visiting your home to provide a service, please store any firearms securely—out of sight and out of reach.
Alcohol and Substance Use
Alcohol may be permitted or offered at some events. Members are expected to drink responsibly and use good judgment at all times.
Members and volunteers may NOT provide transportation or perform services while under the influence of any substance including, but not limited to; alcohol, cannabis, illicit drugs, and prescription or over-the-counter medications that impair normal functioning.
Tobacco Use
Please refrain from using tobacco products at Villages-sponsored events and be considerate while in the company of members or volunteers.
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Privacy & Confidentiality
Your privacy is important to us. Missoula Villages is committed to protecting all personal information you share. Details about you, your family, or your circumstances will be treated with the strictest confidence. Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis to ensure your safety and well-being. Examples include:
● When you are in a life-threatening situation.
● When there is concern about abuse, neglect, or exploitation, Missoula Aging Servies staff will notify appropriate agencies as required by law.
● When you request additional resources that Villages staff can help provide.
Information Shared Within the Villages
To facilitate services and community connections, the following details may be shared with volunteers and members:
● Your name
● Your address
● Your phone number
● Your service request details
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Feedback & Concerns
We welcome feedback. Members may:
● Share feedback by email, phone or in writing.
● Contact information is provided below.
We will address concerns within five (5) business days, or in as timely a way as circumstances allow.
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Changing Needs & Transitions
If a member’s needs change:
● Staff will discuss options with the member
● Referrals may be made to other Missoula Aging Services programs
Missoula Villages may no longer be the right fit if:
● You need daily assistance.
● You are no longer able to communicate effectively via phone or email.
● You are dealing with an illness or condition that is communicable or infectious.
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Staying Connected
Contact Information:
● Phone: (406)728-7682
● Email: [email protected]
● Website: missoula.helpfulvillage.com
Office Hours:
● Monday-Friday 8:00-5:00
Members receive updates via:
● Email and phone