Education Support Volunteer

“I learned that dementia is a journey, that each day is a new day, that we are not alone and that we (and how we feel) matter. There is help and support.”

- Workshop participant

About the role

The Alzheimer Society of B.C. offers workshops on a variety of topics related to dementia and caregiving for persons with dementia. Education Support Volunteers assist workshop facilitators to set up/tear down workshop space, register participants, organize refreshments, greet and assist individuals as they arrive, and facilitate break-out sessions during the workshop.

Commitment

• Between 5 – 10 hours per month, 1 year commitment preferred OR;
• 2 presentations and one information booth per month.
• Flexible as scheduling permits
• Primarily week day/daytime hours, some evening/Saturday availability

Benefits

• Increase knowledge about dementia and family caregiving
• Gain experience facilitating group discussions
• Spread awareness and support to persons with dementia and those caring for them
• Position may count towards training and experience for direct support volunteer positions, including workshop or support group facilitator roles
• References/reference letters may be provided to volunteers who have successfully completed 6 or more months in their position

Requirements

• Friendly, outgoing personality and well-developed listening skills
• Willingness and eagerness to learn about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias as well as family caregiving
• Self-awareness and ability to recognize and respect boundaries with regards to answering questions and interacting with participants
• Ability to travel within the South Fraser region
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs

Training

• Orientation to Society programs, services and information resources