From flexible hours to helping others, one Papa Pal shares the benefits of working part-time as a companion caregiver
Working as a Papa Pal has become a rewarding role for Kara Ault, who calls Fayetteville, Arkansas home. For Kara, the benefits of working as a Papa Pal companion caregiver are many. She enjoys the opportunity to earn extra money and also give back to her community while working flexible hours.
We caught up with Kara to learn more about working as a Papa Pal and her typical visit.
Here’s more from Papa Pal Kara.
Why do you work as a Papa Pal?
“I have always loved helping people and making conversation to learn about others. Being a Papa Pal is a wonderful opportunity to be able to do those two things, while also making extra money for my family. The flexible hours are perfect for me, and the job is very rewarding.”
Why is this work important?
“Today's world is so isolating for many, especially since the beginning of the pandemic. While many people are connected online, companionship and in-person visits have declined. The kindness from a Papa Pal just visiting or assisting with small tasks can make a person feel more valued and less alone.”
In addition to earning extra money, what are other benefits of the job?
“Feeling good about the job, being able to help others, flexibility in hours, and bonuses.”
What are the 3 most important qualities of a Papa Pal?
“Friendly, honest, and reliable.”
What are the 3 most important skills of a Papa Pal?
“Being able to make conversation, being able to use basic technology, and being compassionate and reliable.”
What tips do you give to new Papa Pals?
“Relax and remember the Papa member is a person just like you, and they probably feel a little anxious about meeting you too. Sometimes they might feel like they are a burden, so be sure to make them feel comfortable and that you are happy to help.”
Do you connect personally with Papa’s mission?
“Yes. Both of my grandmothers had Alzheimer's disease. At the beginning of the illness, one of my grandmothers could live independently, but needed help with small tasks. My grandpa's mind was fine, but he needed company as my grandmother became more ill. I would have loved to have a Papa Pal to visit with them regularly and help with small tasks or rides to doctor appointments.”
Is working as a Papa Pal a good fit for parents who want to work during school hours?
"Because most visits are no more than 2 to 3 hours in length, it can fit into a parent’s schedule during the school day. The hours are flexible and visits are often rides to doctor appointments, which fall during school hours."
What type of life experience makes someone a great Papa Pal?
“Someone who has worked with the elderly or in a caregiver role in the past would be especially good at being a Papa Pal. Someone who has been involved in volunteering in their community would also be good in this role.”
What do you enjoy most about visiting with Papa members?
“I love learning about their lives and feeling their appreciation.”
Earn extra money and give back to the community
Papa Pals brighten the day for people in their communities. They make a difference.
It’s easy to apply online to work part-time as a Papa Pal. Not only will you have the opportunity to earn extra money, you will also have a flexible schedule that you control. You can decide when and how often you work.
There's no better time to apply! Click here to start your application and learn more.
In addition to working as a Papa Pal, Kara Ault is the publisher of Macaroni Kid Fayetteville and Macaroni Kid Rogers-Bentonville. She lives in Northwest Arkansas with her family. Macaroni Kid is a weekly email newsletter and website for parents and families with local editions across the country.
