The Brenda Strafford Foundation

One of the biggest challenges in a continuing care home is moving residents from their rooms to all the wonderful events and therapeutic programs that are planned to keep them physically and mentally well. Sometimes there aren’t enough hands to help get our residents to their meals or events in a timely manner. This causes delays starting and also means that residents can sometimes wait longer periods to get back to their own room. Would you like to volunteer to help us move residents from their rooms so they don’t miss out on all the opportunities we offer? Could you be one of our “Helping hands heroes”?

ROLE DESCRIPTION and RESPONSIBILITIES 

You would assist the staff moving residents from their rooms to join in programs, meals and special events. There would be moving on elevators involved and training on the safe way to move residents would be provided as part of your onboard training. These opportunities would be at different times during the day. It’s also a great way to meet some interesting residents and share some stories with them and you would be welcome to join the programs and events. From daily exercise and interactive programs, to scheduled music concerts, birthday celebrations, and mealtimes, there are many opportunities to help.

You will need:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with residents

• Understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• Report the resident’s participation to your supervisor for charting on their clinical record
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process

SUPERVISED BY

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services/Life Enrichment Manager

Are you a member of the clergy who wishes to share your faith with residents? We have opportunities for clergy within established religions to schedule religious services on-site in our Chapels. We also have opportunities for non-ordained members of any faith community to attend our sites to provide support to residents who request their support.

ROLE DESCRIPTION and RESPONSIBILITIES 

Spiritual Care Volunteers provide a connection to a resident’s faith community. Clergy within established religions may attend the site to preside over religious services. Non-ordained members of a faith community may attend the site to provide one-on-one or small group support to residents who request it. You should have a connection with an established community faith group.

You will need:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with residents

• Understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• Report the resident’s participation to your supervisor for charting on their clinical record
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process

SUPERVISED BY

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services/Life Enrichment Manager

Do you wish to share your love of music? Enjoy having a live audience to interact with?  Then Volunteer music guest is the role for you. You will enrich the lives of our residents, give back to the community in a way that’s meaningful to you, gain work experience if needed and receive recognition from both our residents and staff.

ROLE DESCRIPTION and RESPONSIBILITIES

Volunteer Music guests have an opportunity to share their musical talent and love of music through instrument and song with residents in continuing care. We have opportunities for both daytime and early evening hours in our shared spaces.

You will need:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage residents and families in musical programs
• A proficient level of musical ability is needed

• Understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff.
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process

SUPERVISED BY 

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services/Life Enrichment Manager

Do you enjoy changing your nails to suit your day, your mood, or for a special occasion? We have residents who love to have their nails polished with their favourite colour or for seasonal occasions. If you would like to give your time and expertise, then the Personal Pampering volunteer position is for you. Enjoy companionship and conversation while giving our continuing care residents a fresh manicure.

ROLE DESCRIPTION and RESPONSIBILITIES 

You would provide manicures to residents including: removal of polish, filing and nail polish application. Share your time and expertise while chatting with the residents. We have opportunities for both daytime and early evening hours.

You will need:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with residents

• Understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• Report the resident’s participation to your supervisor for charting on their clinical record
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process

SUPERVISED BY

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services/Life Enrichment Manager

Do you have an amazing pet that should be shared with our residents? Do you enjoy sharing your pet’s personality, quirks, and tricks? Is your pet social and loves attention? Then our pet therapy team volunteer is for you. You will be able to discuss your pet with our residents while they are able to interact with your special pet.

ROLE DESCRIPTION and RESPONSIBILITIES 

The pet therapy team volunteer can provide controlled interactions between their pet and our residents. Calm animals have a calming effect and can aid in feelings of happiness. As well, animals give mental stimulation and sharing some quiet conversation about past memories of beloved pets can lead to increased social interaction.

• The pet visit must benefit the residents
• All pets must be always leashed
• All pets must be in the continuous full control by their owners
• Owners are expected to clean up, completely and immediately, after their pets
• Any individual who brings a pet in the manor is completely and solely liable for any injuries or any damage to personal property caused by the animal
• Any repair or cleaning/maintenance costs incurred by an animal will be charged in full to the owner
• The Administrator or designate reserves the right to rescind an approval based on pet conduct and behaviour, if concerns are raised and validated by employees, residents, visitors, volunteers or others conducting business within our facilities

You will need:

• To understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• Report the resident’s participation to your supervisor for charting on their clinical record
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS 

Volunteer

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process

Pet

Complete the Pet Application

• Provide proof of completed regular vaccinations
• Provide evidence of obedience training
• Meet with supervisor before first visit for assessment

SUPERVISED BY

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services/Life Enrichment Manager

Do you enjoy chatting? Are you curious about the stories older adults want to share? Do you enjoy puzzles, board games, card games, reading to someone? Then the Social Visitor role is for you. You will both give and receive the gift of companionship and friendship.

ROLE DESCRIPTION and RESPONSIBILITIES 

Social Visitor guests have an opportunity to share thoughts, ideas and stories while spending time with our residents on a one-to-one basis. Whether helping with a puzzle, playing a game, or simply hanging out together, you will be a trusted companion to our continuing care residents. We have opportunities for both daytime and early evening hours.

You will need:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with residents

• Understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• Report the resident’s participation to your supervisor for charting on their clinical record
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process

SUPERVISED BY

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services/Life Enrichment Manager

Do you enjoy a party or festive occasion? You would love to volunteer but can’t commit to a steady schedule? Special Events volunteers are needed the day before or day of an event. Whatever your skill, silent auctions, decorating, working on the registration table, mingling with guests and residents, setting up, or clearing, there are always lots of jobs when an event is planned. From golf tournaments to on-site celebrations, there are opportunities all year round.

ROLE DESCRIPTION and RESPONSIBILITIES 

Special Events Volunteers assist with preparation and/or execution of special events and seasonal parties, as well as with occasional and time-specific projects. There could be committee work available. These events may be on-site at any of our manors or at an off-site venue. You ideally will be able to work as a team member and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills as you will be interacting with stakeholders, residents, families, other volunteers, and staff. Proficient time management and organizational skills are an asset. Weekends, daytime and early evenings may be involved.

You will need:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with residents

• Understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• Report the resident’s participation to your supervisor for charting on their clinical record
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process

SUPERVISED BY

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services/Life Enrichment Manager

or

Volunteer and Resource Development Specialist

Do you enjoy going for walks in the park? Are you a fan of day trips to local amenities? Then the Outing Volunteer position is suited for you. You will be giving the gift of fresh air and new sites and sounds to our residents and have an opportunity to share some laughs and make memories.

ROLE DESCRIPTION and RESPONSIBILITIES 

Outing Volunteers contribute to a resident’s health and wellness by assisting with mobility so the resident feels engaged and more in touch with the community. Whether it’s an assisted walk in the neighbourhood or an organized bus trip, your help will allow our residents to enjoy activities outside. The outings are typically daytime hours.

You will need:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with residents
• Be physically strong and able to assist residents with walkers and wheelchairs

• Understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• Report the resident’s participation to your supervisor for charting on their clinical record
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process

SUPERVISED BY

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services/Life Enrichment Manager

Giving our residents the ability to experience their community and the outdoors from the comfort of a Trishaw Bike.

ROLES and RESPONSIBILITIES 

The Recreation Therapy Teams are trained in piloting the Trishaw Bike and will train you. The Trishaw bikes are accessible for all abilities and staff will be available to lift and transfer residents safely to the bike.

You will need:

• To understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• To be physically strong enough to pilot the trishaw bike
• Sign in and out and track your hours
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• Report the resident’s participation to your supervisor for charting on their clinical record
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process
• Complete Trishaw bike training

SUPERVISED BY

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services/Life Enrichment Manager

As many organizations and clubs wish to give back to the community, they are happy to organize teams of volunteers from their employees and members. All our sites are happy to be the recipients of your kindness. If you have a team of volunteers that are looking for opportunities in their community, our sites are well suited as there are locations in every quadrant.

ROLES and RESPONSIBILITIES 

Provide a team or teams to one or more sites for a specific volunteer day or event. As the volunteer lead from your organization, you will be responsible for the planning and paperwork in collaboration with the supervisor for the event. All volunteers will be working closely with staff and will have a brief orientation and training on-site beforehand.

You will need:

• To understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours (volunteer lead)
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• In a timely manner, let us know if your team are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS

• Agree to the confidentiality and ethical consideration policies of BSF
• Volunteer Team Lead is responsible for all paperwork and onsite coordination of the team
• Have each volunteer fill out and sign the Visiting Volunteer Waiver
• Complete the on-site orientation

SUPERVISED BY

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services/Life Enrichment Manager

Volunteer and Resource Development Specialist

One of the biggest challenges we face is moving residents from their rooms to our weekly cocktail hour. Could you be one of our “Helping hands heroes”?

ROLE DESCRIPTION and RESPONSIBILITIES 

Bow View Manor 6428 Montgomery Road NW

Tuesdays and Thursdays 1:45pm – 3:45pm

You would assist the staff moving residents from their rooms to join in our weekly cocktail hour program and help distribute snacks to our residents. There would be moving on elevators involved and training on the safe way to move residents would be provided as part of your onboard training.

You will need:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with residents

• Understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• Report the resident’s participation to your supervisor for charting on their clinical record
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and training

SUPERVISED BY

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services

Do you enjoy playing crib? Are you curious about the stories older adults want to share? Then playing crib with our residents is for you. You will both give and receive the gift of companionship and friendship over a friendly game of cards.

ROLE DESCRIPTION and RESPONSIBILITIES 

At Bow View Manor our residents are looking for card players. We have opportunities for both daytime and early evening hours. Ideally, you would be able to come and play Monday through Friday from 10:30am – noon.  

You will need:

• A knowledge of the game of crib
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with residents

• Understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• Report the resident’s participation to your supervisor for charting on their clinical record
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process

SUPERVISED BY

Manager of Therapeutic Recreation & Volunteer Services/Life Enrichment Manager

Bingo Callers for our residents who love to play. Please note that a clear voice is an asset for this position.

You will need:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with residents
• Understand the safety requirements and rules of the Brenda Strafford Foundation
• Sign in and out and track your hours in Better Impact
• Arrive on time and maintain a professional demeanor with residents and staff
• Report the resident’s participation to your supervisor for charting on their clinical record
• In a timely manner, let your supervisor know if you are running late or unable to fulfill your commitment

 REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check
• Complete the orientation and screening process

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• You would help plant flowers in our courtyards and planters.
• Keep our plants happy and hydrated.
• Use your creativity to help arrange planters and garden spaces making our outdoor areas as beautiful as possible.

Are you looking for a fun and meaningful way to make a difference in your community? Join us as an intergenerational connector with our senior residents. This is a great chance to bridge a generation gap and create some unforgettable moments with seniors who have a wealth of stories and experiences to share. Think of it as hanging out with your grandparents or your cool great aunt or uncle. You'll be chatting, laughing and maybe even learning a thing or two from our awesome seniors. This role is all about fostering friendships, sparking conversations and bringing a little sunshine into a resident's day. You are a young person who loves to connect and engage with others.

Some of the things you can do:

• Spend time chatting, sharing stories and interests and asking about their favourite movies, books, music or life stories
• Participate in fun activities like games, arts & crafts, or a music event
• Help them to use technology. Smartphones, tablets or social media so they can connect with friends and family outside of the residence. Share your favourite apps with them.
• Be a kind and caring listener, sometimes all someone needs is to share a thought or memory

You will have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with our residents who will appreciate your company. You can gain insights from the life experience of others, it's surprising how much you can learn. Improve your communication, teamwork and leadership skills and use the experience on your college applications and resumes. 

Opening Minds through Art (OMA) is an award-winning, evidence-based, intergenerational art-making program for people living with dementia. It was developed at Scripps Gerontology Center, an Ohio Center of Excellence at Miami University, in 2007. Opening Minds through Art (OMA)’s goal is to help build a society that values all people, including older adults living with dementia. We achieve this by building genuine friendships between people living with dementia and volunteers as they engage in artmaking. 

People living with dementia (artists) are paired with volunteers (students, families, caregivers) who are trained to rely on imagination instead of memory and focus on remaining strengths instead of lost skills. OMA enables people living with dementia to assume new roles as artists and teachers and leave a legacy of beautiful artwork.

This is a time sensitive volunteer role.

•  For 6 to 8 weeks.
• Site specific

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process
• Complete training for OMA program

Are you bi-lingual, multi-lingual, or know sign language? Are you looking for an opportunity to hone those skills or keep them current? You could be visiting our residents that struggle with English and so are generally isolated. As a companion, you would be visiting one-on-one and sharing stories, perhaps playing games or helping with puzzles or assisting a resident with strengthening their own communication skills. This volunteer position could also cross over to our outing, portering and social opportunities as well.

Provide one-on-one visits (in a resident’s first language) to enhance the quality of life of the resident who may be generally isolated and tends to avoid social settings. Help translate when needed. Engage the resident in conversation, games and activities that can keep minds and bodies strong and active.

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process

One of the biggest challenges in a continuing care home is moving residents from their rooms to their scheduled appointments. Sometimes there aren’t enough hands to help get our residents ready for their physio appointments in a timely manner. This can cause delays. Would you like to volunteer to help us move residents to and from their rooms so they don’t miss out? Could you be one of our “Helping hands heroes”?

You would assist the staff moving residents from their rooms. There would be moving on elevators involved and training on the safe way to move residents would be provided as part of your onboard training. These opportunities would be at different times during the day. It’s also a great way to meet some interesting residents and share some stories with them.

REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Successful completion of the interview process
• Positive reference checks
• Pass a Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Complete the orientation and screening process