BANGOR – The University of Maine Cooperative Extension will honor more than 100 senior volunteers for their efforts to help homebound elders remain independent. A recognition event for individuals serving in Cooperative Extension’s Senior Companion Program will take place at 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, at the Spectacular Events Center.

The program is part of the National Senior Service Corps, a national community service program providing older Americans with opportunities to volunteer. Senior companions are individuals age 60 or older who provide companionship to homebound or isolated elders in their communities. The program seeks to reduce loneliness and isolation and to help individuals remain in their own homes as long as possible.

The annual recognition will honor 120 senior companions who volunteered in 13 Maine counties, providing support to more than 500 clients.

Senior companions spend time with elders reading, playing games, reminiscing, and assisting with daily living tasks such as grocery shopping. SCP volunteers receive monthly training and education in elder issues. Those who meet income eligibility guidelines receive a modest stipend and reimbursement for transportation expenses.

For more information, call 581-3870 or 1-877-444-8623 and ask for the Senior Companion Program.