Anyone looking to donate some time and caring effort may find an opportunity through the Lansing Area AIDS Network.

The network is looking for volunteers for its buddy program and for this Sunday’s AIDS walk.

“Being a buddy can change your life,” said David Bialski, a buddy program volunteer. “I would recommend being a buddy to anybody. I met wonderful people and had the experience of a lifetime.”

Volunteers for the buddy program participate in a four session, 12-hour training program that prepares them for issues they may face including confidentiality, substance abuse, recovery or even death.

“The training starts with AIDS 101 and also what the buddy program is,” said Pat Lombardi, director of volunteer services for the Lansing Area AIDS Network, 4660 S. Hagadorn Road.

“Buddies also learn about keeping good boundaries, confidentiality and all other issues a buddy may have to deal with.”

Volunteers are matched with a person who has HIV to provide emotional support and periodic assistance. They must agree to a time commitment of two to three hours a week for one year.

Lombardi said there are many things the buddy and the client can do together. He encourages activities in which the buddy can listen to any concerns their client may have, but he discourage bars or dancing.

“We ask the buddy to think of things where you can give the client your full attention,” Lombardi said.

“A buddy is like a friend who you can talk to, watch a movie with and even to go grocery shopping,” said Brenda Stoneburner, executive director of the Lansing Areas AIDS Network. She said some people may need help reading mail, making dishes or doing housework.

“It depends on what the individual client needs you to provide,” she said.

The Lansing Area AIDS Network is also sponsoring AIDS Walk Michigan in Lansing on Sunday. The fundraiser is a 5K walk starting at Valley Court Park on Valley Court Dr.

“Anyone is welcome to register, and people who get pledges of $25 or more get a walk T-shirt,” Stoneburner said.