SAIL's Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What makes SAIL different from other programs already available in the community?
SAIL is the only program of its kind in our area. Our focus is on independence and helping older adults continue to thrive through involvement, interactions, and learning.
- Members not only draw from services, they have a key role in the governance of SAIL as well as its day-to-day operations.
- SAIL members benefit from the Village Model and SAIL’s access to resources from the international Village to Village Network.
- Member families also report finding SAIL membership acts as a valuable support to family and paid caregivers.
- SAIL members and staff provide each other with extensive experience and connection to resources and advice.
and most importantly, members support one another, rather than relying entirely on support from staff.
What kinds of services does SAIL offer?
SAIL provides numerous services including access to pre-screened service providers, educational events, transportation, medication reviews, volunteer opportunities, social events, and so much more! For a complete list of what is offered at each membership level, please visit the Membership page of our website.
Do I have to live in a house to be a member of SAIL?
No, we welcome older adults in many different living environments, e.g., house, condominium, apartment, co-housing, and senior living communities.
Do you work with other agencies that provide similar services?
SAIL works with several community organizations. We are constantly identifying unmet needs and finding ways to meet them. Some of the organizations we work closely with are: NewBridge, RSVP Triad, local senior centers, Dane County Health and Human Services, Safe Communities, and more!
Where is SAIL located?
SAIL’s office is located at the Oakwood Village University Woods campus in the Oakwood Tower Apartment building, second floor unit 210. SAIL members live throughout Dane County.
How does SAIL decide what services to offer?
SAIL members take an active role in driving the program. SAIL has created six teams led by member volunteers: Communications, Development, Ethnic Diversity, Finance, Membership Matters, and SAILing into the future!. Membership Matters, a group that is open to all members, meets every other month to discuss program ideas and provides feedback to staff.
Membership
What does it cost to join SAIL?
A Full membership has an annual fee of only $405 per household. An Associate membership is also available for $220. SAIL offers a sliding fee based on household income and circumstance.
How do I join SAIL?
Simply call the SAIL office at 608-230-4321, email us at info@sailtoday.org, or sign up through the Join tab on the website. Once you’ve signed up, we’ll schedule a personal appointment to deliver your membership information. If you pay annually and ever have to cancel your membership, you’ll receive a refund of unused months.
Can I charge my membership?
Yes, we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. You may also pay using ACH (automatic withdrawal from your checking account) or personal check.
Volunteering
What types of volunteer opportunities does SAIL offer?
SAIL offers many volunteer opportunities including committee work, public relations, visitation/companionship, member transportation, office assistance, light handyman work, and more. Please visit the Volunteer page to learn more.
How do I become a SAIL volunteer?
Call the SAIL office at 608-230-4321 or email our Volunteer Coordinator Becky Rogers at becky@sailtoday.org. We’ll provide an application form and a Background Information Disclosure form required of all volunteers. You can also download and send the paperwork via the Volunteer page. Once we receive and review your application, we'll contact you regarding next steps.
If I volunteer, do I have to commit to a certain number of hours or a regular schedule?
No, there is no minimum time requirement for SAIL volunteers. We encourage all volunteers to commit to the amount of time they feel they can successfully manage.
Service Providers
What is the Service Provider Directory?
The Service Provider Directory is a listing of pre-screened businesses and individuals. We receive suggestions from members and others associated with SAIL. As an organization, we have many resources to call upon for referrals and we do a thorough screening and background check.
How are services arranged with SAIL service providers?
When you join SAIL, we provide you with your own directory of service providers. You may contact the service providers directly and identify yourself as a SAIL member or you can call SAIL and we’ll be happy to call them for you.
What if I need a service that SAIL does not have a service provider listed?
We have access to a variety of resources to help locate a recommended service provider for you to contact. Just give us a call at 608-230-4321 or email info@sailtoday.org and we'll help you!
What if I have a problem with a service provider or the work that was done?
Call SAIL to discuss your concern.