Amharic-Speaking Volunteer Interpreter

Help Older Adults Stay Connected, Informed & Engaged

Senior Services of Alexandria (SSA) is looking for friendly, compassionate Amharic-speaking volunteers to help older adults participate fully in workshops, educational programs, and community events.

Many of the older adults we serve speak Amharic as their primary language. Having someone available to help interpret during a workshop or activity can make an enormous difference—helping participants understand important information, ask questions, participate in conversations, and feel welcomed and included.

You do not need to be a professional interpreter. If you are comfortable speaking both Amharic and English and enjoy helping others, we would love to hear from you!

What Will You Do?

As an Amharic-Speaking Volunteer Interpreter, you may:

• Help interpret between English and Amharic during workshops and activities
• Assist older adults in understanding presentations and instructions
• Help participants communicate questions to presenters or SSA staff
• Support community events and educational programs
• Help create a welcoming and inclusive environment for Amharic-speaking older adults

Topics may include health and wellness, community resources, safety, social connection, arts and recreation, and other programs designed for older adults.

Flexible Schedule

This is a great opportunity for someone who wants to volunteer but needs flexibility.

Time Commitment: Approximately 1–2 events per week, depending on your availability
Length: Approximately 1 hour per event
Days: Weekdays
Hours: Events take place between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

You do not need to be available every day or attend every event. SSA will contact volunteers when interpretation assistance is needed, and you can participate based on your availability.

Who Would Be a Great Fit?

We are looking for volunteers who:

• Speak Amharic and English
• Enjoy connecting with older adults
• Are friendly, patient, and respectful
• Are comfortable helping facilitate conversations
• Want to make a meaningful difference in their community

Professional interpretation experience is not required.

Why Volunteer?

Language should never be a barrier to connection.

By volunteering just an hour of your time, you can help an older adult better understand valuable information, participate in a community activity, ask an important question, or simply feel that they belong.

It is a flexible and meaningful way to use your language skills to support Amharic-speaking older adults in Alexandria.

Come share your language, your time, and your connection with our community!