Tennessee Voices for Children

PURPOSE: To provide a positive model of collaboration, problem solving, and role exchange necessary for parents and family members to become full partners in the development and implementation of services for their children. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Help provide a safe environment by ensuring non-judgmental approach to family members • Provide a role-model of problem solving and collaboration with a professional • Encourage and support group members through sharing of personal experiences • Network with parents and family members in the group for advocacy and support • Share knowledge of service systems • Document the hours, attendees, and speakers for the monthly support group • Work with a professional to schedule meetings, speakers, and location of the monthly meeting • Disseminate TVC materials and fact sheets to the parents and family members in the group and with other service systems QUALIFICATIONS: Must be a parent or family member of a child (to 22 years of age) with an emotional or behavioral disorder and have the ability to work as a team with a professional co-facilitator. TRAINING REQUIREMENTS: Training will be provided by an Outreach Specialist on: The Parent/Professional Support Group Model, Tennessee Voices for Children mission, goals, and programs, documentation of hours, support group attendance, and speaker’s insurance liability statement. TIME AND PLACE: To be determined by the geographical location of the Parent Support Group but groups are encouraged to meet at least monthly. COMMITMENT: 2 to 4 hours monthly for one calendar year (12 months). A 60 day notice is requested should the volunteer be unable to continue as a co-facilitator during that time period, or when the volunteer has met their 12 month commitment and does not want to continue in the volunteer position. SUPERVISION/EVALUATION: Supervision will be provided by designated outreach staff or if they are not available, Statewide Family Support Network supervisor. Evaluation will be based on the volunteer attending training, working with a professional co-facilitator, and organizing Support Group meetings. BENEFITS: Free training, ongoing consultation with outreach staff, TVC promotional materials (fact sheets and brochures), experience in working with professionals and parents, service hours with a nonprofit and increased awareness of community needs, services, and resources.