Stony Plain Volunteer Centre

What are the Volunteer duties or responsibilities?
Caregivers Alberta empowers Albertans who give care to family and friends due to illness, addiction, disability, or aging at home or in the community. We provide education, support caregivers' well-being, and advocate for public policy.

Although we are headquartered in Edmonton, we provide programs and services for all family and friend caregivers throughout the province of Alberta.

The Peer Buddy program matches past or current caregivers together to provide a friendly outlet to increase connection and reduce isolation. Research shows that when family caregivers participate in one-to-one peer support, there is an overall improvement in health and decreased feelings of isolation and depression.

Buddies will provide a listening ear, empathy, and share about their caregiving journeys (the challenges and the successes) to the caregiver they are matched with over the telephone or online through Zoom.

One-to-one peer support provides caregivers dedicated time and space to engage with another caregiver who may be dealing with similar issues, a place to receive and give support, and a safe place to express feelings.

We ask for a minimum six month commitment. Buddy 'visits' will happen over the phone or online video (like Zoom) on a weekly or bi-weekly basis (based on availability of both parties). Peer Buddies are asked to provide a monthly activity report.

Education/Knowledge Required
Who is the best fit for this role?
Peer Buddy volunteers must have lived experience as a family or friend caregiver in order to better relate to other caregivers who need the support.

Good communication and interpersonal skills, judgment and decision-making skills are helpful in this role. Volunteers should also have sufficient emotional health and capacity to sustainably engage with another caregiver who may be going through a challenging time.

Matches typically last up to six (6) months but can end at any time for any reason. Volunteers should have approximately one (1) hour weekly or bi-weekly to spend interacting with the caregiver with whom they are matched.

Benefits to the Volunteer
- be part of a team that cares about your time and contribution
- help grow awareness of caregiving and the challenges that Alberta's one million+ family and friend caregivers face
- support caregivers in your region

Time commitment required
Matches typically last up to six (6) months but can end at any time for any reason. Volunteers should have approximately one (1) hour weekly or bi-weekly to spend interacting with the caregiver with whom they are matched.

Is training provided?

Yes

Please describe the training provided
Training is provided virtually over video call and takes 2 - 3 hours. A handbook for the Peer Buddy role is also provided.

Location of Volunteer Position
Virtual, online or over the phone

Start Date
April 1, 2025

Link to website for more information 
https://www.caregiversalberta.ca/volunteer/peer-buddy/