Hear from one California Papa Pal about flexible work that gives back
There are many options when it comes to flexible gig jobs, but few offer the chance to make someone’s day brighter. And that’s exactly what Annie Young enjoys most about working as a Papa Pal.
Annie, who calls Southern California home, also relates personally to Papa’s mission to build a world where no one has to go it alone.
We caught up with Annie to learn how Papa Pals can make someone’s day brighter. Here’s more from Papa Pal Annie.
What’s it like to work as a Papa Pal?
“As a Papa Pal, I feel like I am giving back to my community and making a difference in the lives of those who need it. I am able to bring joy to others and learn about their lives as well. Papa is the good in the world and we don't have to look too far to find it.”
Why is this work important?
“Being a Papa Pal in this fast-paced world is important because it slows us down enough to reflect on life's details and the importance of being kind.”
What type of life experiences can help make someone a successful Papa Pal?
“I believe that being an educator, a parent, and/or having lived through struggle helps make someone a successful Papa Pal.”
Is working as a Papa Pal a good fit for parents who want to work during school hours?
“Working as a Papa Pal is a good fit for parents who want to work during school hours because it offers a break during the day from being at home and it is the best time to earn a few extra bucks.”
The answer is yes.
Image Credit: Luis Martinez Photography
What are the 3 most important qualities of a Papa Pal?
“Kindness, compassion, and connection.”
What are the 3 most important skills of a Papa Pal?
“Communication, relationship building, and organization.”
What advice do you give to people thinking about working as a Papa Pal?
“The advice I would give to someone considering becoming a Papa Pal is to go ahead and give it a try. This is truly flexible work and you can set your own schedule.”
In addition to earning extra income, are there other benefits of working as a Papa Pal?
“Another benefit, besides extra income, of working as a Papa Pal is the wonderful feeling of making a difference in someone's life. This work helped me reflect on life and what we take for granted every day. It's amazing knowing that a simple act of kindness can make someone's day brighter.”
Can you share how your visits combine household tasks and companionship?
“Here's a good example. I helped a member with laundry and while we waited, we talked about our families and where we grew up. I really enjoyed learning about her life and family. Several of her family members reached out to me after that visit to personally thank me for helping their mother.”
Do you connect personally with Papa’s mission?
“Yes. I live 3,000 miles away from my 80-year-old mother. She doesn't want to move closer and it makes me very nervous not to have a support system I can rely on to help her when needed. I appreciate Papa's mission to provide members with assistance and companionship when it is needed. It gives family members peace of mind that their loved ones are cared for and that there's a Papa Pal who can help that's not too far away.”
Make someone’s day brighter as a Papa Pal
Interested in finding a part-time, flexible job that gives back? Apply to work as a Papa Pal companion caregiver today. Each Papa Pal visit offers the chance to make someone’s day brighter.
As a Papa Pal, you decide when and how often you work. For example, you can choose to work a couple of hours a week or more. Papa Pals earn an hourly base rate, plus bonuses. With bonuses, many Papa Pals earn $20 an hour or more. Plus, Papa reimburses you for any car rides (transportation visits) you provide.
If the opportunity to make someone’s day brighter has sparked your interest, click here to apply to work as a Papa Pal.
In addition to working as a Papa Pal, Annie Young is a teacher and the publisher of Macaroni KID Santa Ana and Macaroni KID Newport Beach. She lives in Southern California with her family. Macaroni Kid is a weekly email newsletter and website for parents and families with local editions across the country.
