We are looking for responsible and mature volunteers with daytime availability, Tuesday through Friday, between the hours of 10am and 4pm. Shifts are usually 3 hours long (once a week).  We ask that volunteers make a commitment of at least one year. 

The Helpline is not a crisis line; rather, we provide information and support for caregivers, people with dementia and the general public. We also have individuals call the Helpline who have hearing problems and individuals who are dealing with difficult issues.

It is important that volunteers be able to present resource information very clearly over the telephone and be empathetic listeners.

Specific Duties:

  • Provide information and empathetic support to the general public on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias
  • Provide information on programs and services offered by the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
  • Provide referrals to other services and agencies in the community
  • Stay updated and informed about the disease, caregiving issues, and current research
  • Track calls for program statistics
  • Perform clerical duties as assigned to maintain Helpline information and resources.Ongoing training is provided.

Please note that the position is usually not suitable for university or college students; the training and intake process can take several months.
 
Benefits:

  • Be in direct one-on-one contact with people across BC.
  • Give back to the community.
  • Be a member of a small dedicated team.
  • Have an opportunity for personal growth.
  • Assist a great organization with valuable work.

As we endeavor to provide a high quality service, we provide all of our volunteers with extensive training in order to prepare you for talking with people with Alzheimer's or with their caregivers.

Training provided:
  • Alzheimer Society of B.C. Orientation and Dementia Helpline training
  • On the job orientation & training
  • Attendance at Dementia Series workshops
  • Participation in several support group sessions (caregiver and early stage)
  • Ongoing support and supervision from staff
  • Ongoing volunteer workshops and training sessions.

Skills and Experience Required:

  • Mature attitude
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills (further training given)
  • Ability to clearly provide information over the telephone
  • Empathic listening skills matched with healthy boundaries
  • Fluent in English (another language an asset)
  • Knowledge of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias and/or caregiving experience an asset
  • Willingness to learn and availability to attend training sessions.
     

To apply:

Download the Support Volunteer Candidate Form 
 

When completed, mail or fax to:

Volunteer Resources
Alzheimer Society of B.C.
300 - 828 West 8th Avenue
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1E2
or
Fax: 604-669-6907

The intake process for applications can take up to a month.