Newfoundland: Hospital Peer Connector Volunteer (various locations)

 
  

The Opportunity:

The Hospital Peer Connector Program links stroke survivors or caregivers well into their recovery with new stroke survivors or caregivers, in a hospital setting (acute care, inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation unit). Volunteers share their experiences, provide hope, encouragement and emotional support at the beginning of the recovery process. This role is an excellent opportunity to help someone through their stroke journey.

Main Responsibilities

  • Provide hope, optimism, encouragement, and personal knowledge of stroke recovery and encourage continued contact with MODC through sharing details of the After Stroke Program and other MODC programs and services
  • Initiate and lead one-to-one conversations with patients in a respectful, calm, and supportive manner
  • Encourage patients to participate and engage in conversation
  • Share their own stroke journey and provide hope and encouragement
  • Respect the nature and extent to which patients engage in conversations
  • Debrief with a Volunteer Engagement Coordinator on a regular basis or when needed
  • Introduce MODC After Stroke personalized case management program and community-based peer support programs using materials provided by MODC
  • Adhere to all Hospital and MODC policies, procedures and guidelines including public health related guidelines

Time Commitment: Flexible, 2-3 hours per week.
Locations:  Various hospitals throughout the province

Skills and Experience
  • Must be over 18 years of age
  • Must be a stroke survivor or a caregiver for someone who has had a stroke 
  • Strong interpersonal skills, including listening skills and ability to show empathy
  • Reliable and able to follow direction
  • Able to demonstrate a positive attitude 
  • Recognizes personal boundaries within the role and uses supervision to clarify when uncertainties arise 
  • Respects and values cultural diversities, the opinions, and ideas of others

Benefits of the Position

  • Gain experience in a hospital setting and develop a greater understanding of stroke rehabilitation
  • Opportunity to have a positive impact on those who have been affected by stroke
  • Opportunity to develop and strengthen your communication skills
  • Participate as a valued volunteer of March of Dimes Canada and of assigned hospital Screening Requirements - MODC

Interested in learning more about this exciting opportunity?
Contact Mackenzie Kirby by e-mail at mkirby@marchofdimes.ca, or by phone at 709-853-3753

Application