Tip: Ombudsman program looking for volunteers

If you're looking to do volunteer work where you can make a difference in the lives of some of Long Island's frailest residents, the Long Term Care Ombudsman program wants to speak with you.

The federally mandated but locally funded program sends volunteers to nursing homes and assisted-living centers to act as advocates for patients, many of whom have no family or friends to fight for their interests. As a volunteer, you will make a weekly visit to a facility near you.

To volunteer in Suffolk, call Family Service League at 631-427-3700, ext. 240. In Nassau, call Family and Children's Association at 516-466-9718. You also can call those numbers if you have a loved one in a nursing home or assisted-living center who is in need of a patient advocate.