Be a volunteer facilitator!

What is the program all about?

This program is designed to help children deal with loss through divorce or separation. Facilitators are volunteers who help participants put their feelings into words, work through their grief, build a stronger sense of self-esteem and begin to accept what has taken place in the family. Facilitators will work directly with participants in a small group setting and provide support using the curricula. Facilitators lead groups in pairs.

What makes a great facilitator?

  • Experience working with children and youth
  • Committed to helping children and youth
  • Non judgmental of participant's experiences
  • Maintain high levels of confidentiality
  • Capable of working well with other adults
  • Excellent communication
  • Realization that he/she does not have "answers" for participant's problems, but can help them discover the means to cope with these problems
  • Ability to nurture and support members of a small group (6 - 8 participants)
  • 20 years of age or older

Please note: If a volunteer is recently divorced, separated or widowed, or experiencing some other painful loss, it is advisable for them to wait at least two years before working directly with participants.

What is the time commitment?

  • Comprehensive Facilitator Training (approximately 25 hours). Available to commit to 1.5 hours of volunteering per week for 10 consecutive weeks (program runs 3 sessions per year: Winter, Spring and Fall).
  • Facilitator meetings scheduled by the coordinator (approximately once per month for 1.5 hours).
  • A committment to facilitating a minimum of 2 groups over 2 years.

Why would I want to volunteer?

Volunteers give freely of their time and expertise in order to make a difference. Volunteering with us can help you:

  • Learn and develop skills
  • Gain work experience
  • Apply your currents skills and gain some new ones
  • Take part in professional development opportunities
  • Feel the personal satisfaction of helping others
  • Make a difference in someone's life
  • Make a difference in your own community

I'm interested, what do I do now?

  • Application forms are available at Strathcona Family and Community Services, call 780-464-4044 to have an application mailed out or download is here:Support Group Volunteer Facilitator - Application . Fill out the application form and return it to Strathcona County Family and Community Services, c/o Strathcona County 2001 Sherwood Drive, Sherwood Park, AB T8A 3W7 or fax it to 780-449-1220
  • Participate in an interview
  • Provide three references
  • Complete a clear Criminal Record check and Child Welfare check

Additional information

Family and Community Services 780-464-4044

info@strathcona.ab.ca

Last updated: Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Page ID: 2568

County Hall: 2001 Sherwood Drive, Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada T8A 3W7