Online Peer Support Group Facilitator
Position Overview
As a Peer Support Group Facilitator, you, a person living with arthritis, will have the opportunity to lead virtual support sessions for individuals living with or impacted by arthritis. This role supports the Arthritis Connections - Aide entrAide program, where participants come together to learn, share, and connect over the impacts of arthritis on their lives. Your primary responsibility will be to host virtual peer support groups, welcome participants, facilitate conversations, provide opportunities for group members to connect, and maintain a safe, open dialogue within the group. This role is an excellent fit for someone who is comfortable with technology, public speaking, facilitation, and has a personal connection to arthritis.
Time Commitment
Approximately 1–1.5 hours per session
At least one session per month
Commitment to at least 6 months of service
This is a flexible role with no fixed schedule. Volunteer engagement may vary depending on the needs of the Arthritis Connections program.
Key Areas of Responsibility
Facilitate virtual peer support groups for individuals living with or impacted by arthritis
Welcome participants and create an inclusive, comfortable space for discussion
Guide group conversations and encourage participants to share their experiences
Ensure a supportive and respectful environment that fosters open and safe dialogue
Provide information, resources, and emotional support when appropriate
Collaborate with Arthritis Society Canada staff to enhance the effectiveness of support sessions
Desired Skills & Attributes
This role is intended for individuals living with arthritis.
Passionate about supporting individuals affected by arthritis
Comfortable with technology, public speaking, and virtual facilitation
Strong communication and listening skills
Ability to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment
Personal connection to arthritis or experience with arthritis is an asset
Experience with group facilitation is an asset
Must have access to a personal computer, reliable and secure internet, and be able to work remotely from home in a private location for confidentiality reasons
Major Contacts
An Arthritis Society Canada staff member will provide direct oversight for this role
Fellow peer support group facilitators and program participants
Working Environment
This position is remote, volunteers can participate where they have access to personal technology, internet, and a private environment.
Applicant Review Process
Due to the scope and structure of this role, a criminal record check is required to be completed before a prospective volunteer is accepted to the program. Costs associated with completing the criminal record check for volunteering with our organization will be covered by Arthritis Society Canada.
Having an interaction with the criminal system does not automatically remove the possibility of volunteering with us – Arthritis Society Canada recognizes that people with certain lived experiences may be disproportionately represented within criminal systems. Should you wish to speak to our volunteer team about the required criminal record check, potential results, or complications that may arise, we invite you to do so at any point in your application process - before, or after, the check is completed.
We thank all applicants for their interest in volunteering with Arthritis Society Canada, however, please be advised that not all candidates can be selected to join our volunteering program.
