Peer Listener Volunteer
Position Overview
A peer-listener volunteer reaches out and connects directly with individuals across Canada that are going through a particularly challenging time with arthritis. This program provides an opportunity for individuals connecting to the Arthritis Line to then connect one-on-one with someone living with Osteoarthritis. This program is intended to provide an opportunity for brief peer conversations and is not meant to be an ongoing or long-term support.
Time Commitment
Volunteers are asked to commit to approximately 5 hours per month, consisting of brief weekly check-ins to monitor the peer-listener inbox and supporting around 2 scheduled shifts (to be determined with program staff and based on your availability) for 2-4 peer-listener calls
We ask for a minimum commitment of 6 months
Occasional meetings, support sessions, and professional development sessions offered throughout the year
Key Areas of Responsibility
Support callers who may feel emotional, overwhelmed or fearful
Provide information and support to people affected by arthritis
Support program referrals and requests via phone and email
Direct callers to the online tools and resources on the Arthritis Society Canada website
Direct callers to local supports and resources
Data entry related to interactions, tracking, and reporting/documentation
Desired Skills & Attributes
Lived experience with arthritis is required for this role (ideally looking for someone with osteoarthritis)
Passionate about, and committed to, bettering the lives of those affected by arthritis
Experience working and interacting with people
Empathetic, friendly, and non-judgmental, with professional phone manner
Willingness to undertake training appropriate to the role (active listening, crisis training, etc.), and learn about Arthritis Society Canada’s resources
Ability to work effectively with staff and other volunteers remotely, and comfortable working with technology
Experience and knowledge of a helping profession is an asset, but not required
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 directly oversee this role
People affected by arthritis
Other volunteers and Arthritis Society Canada staff
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.
