Education Support Volunteer

Join our volunteer team and support our education workshops on dementia and caregiving by becoming an Education Support Volunteer.

A group sat around a table, learning and discussing.

We are mindful of the importance of social distancing and the role we play in our communities to protect the health of our clients, employees and their families during COVID-19. We recently reopened in-person programs along with the associated volunteer opportunities. Currently, volunteer engagement in support of in-person programs requires proof of vaccination and a mask must be worn.   

“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