Help caregivers reduce isolation, work through challenges, and connect with others on a similar journey.

WHAT YOU’LL DO AS A FACILITATOR:

Peer support programs provide emotional, social, and informational support to people who share similar experiences. Caregivers Alberta’s peer support program is built on a strength-based approach that aims to empower caregivers and build them up.

Here are some of the duties of a Peer Support Facilitator:

  • create an inclusive ‘environment of comfort’ where it is easy to talk and share
  • observe the group atmosphere and help to move things along
  • lead by example and not ‘as the boss’
  • model healthy and respectful behaviour
  • report back on particularly challenging topics for debrief and problem-solving
  • record hours and activities and submit them monthly

 

WHO IS THE BEST FIT FOR THIS ROLE:

Volunteer facilitators must have previous facilitation experience, preferably in the clinical or social health sector.

Previous experience as a caregiver is an asset, but not required. Volunteers should have about two (2) hours to dedicate to preparation and hosting the peer support group each week.

If you are an individual volunteer, you will be partnered with one of our caregiver coaches to guide and support a weekly, online group.

If you are aware of a need for in-person support for caregivers in your community and would like to facilitate this, we can help you with training and getting started.

 

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 hours (10) for orientation and training plus eight (8) hours for attendance in a COMPASS for the Caregiver workshop series.

To speak with our Volunteer Coordinator, email volunteer@caregiversalberta.ca