Creating connections: A conversation with Support Group Facilitator, Sandra Hentzen
Volunteer caregiver support group facilitators create a safe and inclusive space for care partners to share their experiences and strategies for living well on the dementia journey. Learn more about the role from Surrey volunteer, Sandra Hentzen, and discover how you can get involved.
What community do you live in and what do you like most about it?
I live in Surrey and have been living here for over twenty-five years. I like living in Surrey because of the diversity – people, restaurants, culture and it is also easy to get around.
Can you tell us about your volunteer role?
I am a Caregiver support group facilitator. I help create a safe space for participants to connect with other care partners, share their experiences and learn from one another. I facilitate meaningful conversations and make sure everyone’s voice is heard. If caregivers need additional resources, I connect them with staff at the Society.
When and why did you start volunteering with the Alzheimer Society of B.C.?
My mom lived with dementia and when she first moved in with me, I was having a tough time communicating with her; both of us were getting really frustrated. I searched online for help and found the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s website. I discovered a lot of useful information about dementia and learned skills that helped me have conversations with my mom. There were so many great resources that I could access. After my mom passed away, I wanted to do something in addition to being a donor—I wanted to help other caregivers, so I started volunteering with the Society in 2016.
Which aspects of the role do you enjoy the most?
Meeting with the caregivers monthly and seeing how they look forward to the group meetings – being able to share experiences and knowing that they are not alone. Also, when they learn new things from each other.
What challenges have you experienced as volunteer?
Can you tell us about the positive impact of volunteering?
The group members really appreciate having a safe space to ask questions, talk about their good and bad times and to have a chance to hear how others have dealt with similar situations. When I walk in the door, they smile at me and seem genuinely happy to see me again. There is something powerful about a smile. To me, it showcases the impact I make.
You have been volunteering as a support group facilitator for over eight years. What keeps you motivated?
The resilience of caregivers is inspiring and I’m proud to be part of their journey. It feels good to help people find confidence and relief when they realize they are not alone.
The more people I meet, the more perspectives I hear and the more I want to learn so I can continue to support new members. I see personal benefits as well - I’m able to take the skills I learn and better support my friends who are caregivers and may not be able to attend a support group.
Can you tell us about skills that have helped you become a strong facilitator?
I worked in Human Resources for over 30 years, so I understand that experiencing challenges in one part of your life can impact other parts. I’m a good listener and I think that helps me make sure participants feel heard and understood.
The facilitation skills I learned in my training was also very helpful. I learned how to make sure everyone has a chance to talk about their unique experiences and see that they are not alone.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about volunteering as a support group facilitator?
This is a very rewarding volunteer opportunity because the roles that we play are so important – whether you’re supporting people living with dementia or caregivers. The ability to be present in the moment when someone is telling their story is so impactful to that caregiver. I hope you bring your compassion and good listening skills to the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I hope to keep being a volunteer facilitator and I must give a shout-out to Avalon, my staff supervisor, at the Surrey Resource Centre. I have known Avalon indirectly for years and recently started volunteering under her supervision. She has such a wealth of knowledge and is always willing to share her expertise!