NM Aging Services logo
800-432-2080
1-800-432-2080

SHIP and SMP Volunteer Program

What do SHIP and SMP volunteers do?

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP, is a national program that offers one-on-one counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families.  The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) is a national program to help people of all ages with Medicare avoid, detect, and prevent health care scams, fraud, and abuse.

man and woman receiving financial counciling

As a SHIP/SMP volunteer, you will provide benefits counseling on Medicare, the Medicare prescription drug program and subsidy programs that help pay Medicare premiums and lower deductibles. It’s your chance to ensure that older New Mexicans receive accurate, unbiased information about health care options and other benefits. It does not sell, endorse or recommend any specific insurance or other health plans.

Volunteering with the New Mexico SHIP/SMP, you will provide invaluable services to your community by:

  • Counseling beneficiaries through the Medicare enrollment process
  • Connecting with seniors who have limited income to help them save money on health care costs
  • Educating the community about health insurance issues
  • Advocating for beneficiaries’ rights
  • AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!

Volunteers are trained in the areas of Medicare insurance, benefits and fraud so they can provide information and assistance in evaluating the beneficiaries’ needs.

Volunteers bring many backgrounds and experiences that enhance helping people in need. SHIP and SMP volunteers are likely to have:

  • Good communication and sensitivity
  • Reliability and perseverance
  • Willingness to help their community

Volunteer Application Form

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD). Volunteers play a vital role in supporting older adults, individuals with disabilities, caregivers, and communities across New Mexico. Please complete this application fully. Submission does not guarantee placement.

1. Applicant Information

Name(Required)
Pronouns (optional):

MM slash DD slash YYYY
Address(Required)
Preferred Method of Contact:

2. Emergency Contact

Name(Required)

3. Applicant Availability

Please check the areas you are interested in supporting (placement depends on availability and need):
MM slash DD slash YYYY
Days Available (check all that apply):
Preferred Time of Day:
Length of Commitment (if known):

4. Areas of Interest

Please check the areas you are interested in supporting (placement depends on availability and need):
Aging Network Division (AmeriCorps Programs)
Consumer and Elder Rights Division (SHIP/SMP)
Other Department Programs

5. Skills, Experience & Languages

Relevant Skills or Experience (professional, volunteer, or lived experience):
Languages Spoken
Comfort Level Working With (check all that apply):

6. Background & Compliance

Some volunteer roles may require additional screening.
Are you willing to complete a background check if required?(Required)
Do you have reliable transportation (if applicable to role)?

7. References (optional but encouraged)

Reference Name:

8. Applicant Statement

9. Acknowledgement & Consent

Consent(Required)
Name(Required)
MM slash DD slash YYYY

Please call the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) at 1-800-432-2080 to find out about volunteer opportunities in your area!