Help caregivers reduce isolation, work through challenges, and connect with others on a similar journey.
WHAT YOU’LL DO AS A PEER BUDDY:
The Peer Buddy program matches experienced caregiver ‘buddy’ volunteers with caregivers who need emotional support. Research shows that when family caregivers participate in one-to-one peer support, there is an overall improvement in health and decreased feelings of isolation and depression.
Buddies will provide a listening ear, empathy, and information about community resources to the caregiver they are matched with over the telephone or online through Zoom.
One-to-one peer support provides caregivers dedicated time and space to engage with another caregiver who may be dealing with similar issues, a place to receive and give support, and a safe place to express feelings.
WHO IS THE BEST FIT FOR THIS ROLE:
Peer Buddy volunteers must have lived experience as a caregiver in order to better relate to other caregivers who need the support.
Good communication and inter-personal skills, judgment and decision-making skills are helpful in this role. Volunteers should also have sufficient emotional health and capacity to sustainably support another caregiver.
Matches typically last up to six (6) months but can end at any time for any reason. Volunteers should have approximately one (1) hour weekly or bi-weekly to spend interacting with the caregiver with whom they are matched.
TO GET STARTED:
Your first step will be to fill out a volunteer application form. Our Volunteer Coordinator will contact you to discuss the role and make sure it is a good fit for you. You will be asked to provide up to three references and complete a police records check, after which you will attend an orientation and training.
Training commitment: Ten (10) hours for orientation, followed by a ‘match meeting’ with a caregiver, which will be done in conjunction with a Caregivers Alberta staff member.
Have questions? Speak with our Volunteer Coordinator: volunteer@caregiversalberta.ca