Join us!
Be a voice for Colorado residents living in long-term care homes.
What is the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program?
“Ombudsman” is a Swedish word for a representative, or someone who speaks on behalf of another individual. The Colorado State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for residents of skilled nursing homes and licensed assisted living residences. The primary purpose of the program is to promote and protect the residents’ rights guaranteed under federal and state law.
We achieve this mission with a network of local offices across the state, which recruit, train, and manage teams of certified ombudsmen. Staff and volunteer ombudsmen visit long-term care facilities throughout the state to ensure residents’ rights are being upheld.
Certified Long-Term Care Volunteer Ombudsmen are trained to receive complaints and resolve problems in situations involving quality of care, use of restraints, transfer and discharge, abuse, and other aspects of resident dignity and rights. Ombudsman services are free, confidential, and resident directed.
A Sense of Purpose and Community
When you join the ombudsman community, you join a group of dedicated individuals who truly care about others. You will get to volunteer alongside wonderful teammates as well as interact with many remarkable residents who may need your advocacy. Our volunteers always have help and support available at both the local and state level. A mentorship where you are partnered with an experienced ombudsman may also be possible to assist you after obtaining initial certification We are a community that appreciates one another, the different strengths we have and we take pride in our efforts to help others.
As a fully certified ombudsman, you will have the opportunity to participate in gatherings such as our annual conference, “Lunch and Learn” sessions, informal “Coffee and Cases” discussions, regular points of contact for support from your Regional Ombudsman and more.
You don’t have to change the whole world to change one person’s whole world.
Background Check
All certified long-term care ombudsmen are required to complete a background check that will have no cost for the volunteer.
I’m interested! How do I apply to become a volunteer?
Contact State Volunteer Program Coordinator Jesse Bond to express your interest and to obtain an application. Email jesse.bond@state.co.us or phone 720-925-8609.
I still have questions. Is there someone I can talk to for more information?
Absolutely! We’d love an opportunity to speak with you. Request a meeting with State Volunteer Program Coordinator Jesse Bond to answer your questions. Email jesse.bond@state.co.us or phone 720-925-8609.
Learn more about our community
Volunteer position description
Training and Events