In partnership with Bruyère Health Research Institute, March of Dimes Canada is looking for compassionate volunteers to support stroke survivors as they transition home from hospital.
As part of the DASH research project, volunteers will be matched one-on-one with a stroke survivor for 8 weeks after discharge. Through weekly visits, volunteers provide companionship, encouragement, and light support with everyday activities at home.
This is a meaningful opportunity to help someone feel more confident, connected, and supported during recovery while contributing to important research that could improve care for future stroke survivors.
With more than 108,000 new strokes occurring in Canada every year, there is evident urgency for additional support for stroke survivors and their families. The goal of this project is to create more socially valuable volunteer roles that will fill the gap in support during the post stroke journey.
Main Responsibilities
Meet with stroke survivors in their home weekly for 8 weeks post-hospital discharg
Provide client centered support including researching local services and resources
Help relieve feelings of loneliness, by offering companionship, conversation & engagement in meaningful activities
Assist in re-engaging stroke survivors in previous hobbies and new interests
Assist with light domestic tasks (i.e. meal preparation, loading the dishwasher) and other daily needs as requested
Provide information about March of Dimes Canada’s After Stroke program
Report any health or safety concerns to the Program Manager
Participate in data collection, surveys, observations as per the research study needs
Optional: Pick-up items (i.e. groceries, mail)
Staff Liaison: Volunteer Engagement Coordinator
Time Commitment: Minimum 8 weeks; Flexible, 2-3 hours per week.
Locations: Locations vary. Matches will be made based on area code cathment.
Skills and Experience
- Must be over 18 years of age
- Strong interpersonal skills, attuned to supporting with active listening and the ability to explain and confirm understanding using both verbal and nonverbal questions
- Experience working with the disability community, knowledge of disability issues and/or lived experience of disability or providing person centered support will be considered strong assets
- Sociable, friendly, and empathetic
- A clear understanding of privacy and confidentiality
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Ability to commit to at least one 8-week match, with a preference for ongoing involvement beyond the initial match.
- Ability to communicate clearly in English, speaking other languages is an asset
- Optional: Access to a smoke-free vehicle with minimum $1M third party liability insurance
- Optional: A valid driver’s license with 6 or fewer demerit points and an acceptable driving record
Required Training
- Introduction to MODC
- Role specific training
- Health & Safety Standards
Screening Requirements
- References checks
- Vulnerable Sector Screen Clearance
We are not specifically looking for students in medical, OT, PT, nursing, or PSW programs — however, this can be an excellent opportunity to gain meaningful community and patient-support experience.
