Caregiver Support Mentor

Intent:  the volunteer supports and assists caregivers to fulfill their roles caring for their loved ones as well as maintaining their own self-care. The volunteers will preferably be experienced caregivers (current or former) who will mentor their less experienced peers.

The mentors will share caregiving knowledge, resources and experiences to guide their mentees in their new caregiving role. They will structure the mentoring contacts as works for both themselves and their mentee and as they determine to be beneficial.  Ideal volunteers will be friendly and caring and be interesting in mentoring and providing emotional support. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Meet with caregiver mentees individually in-person or by phone

• Provide a listening ear, guidance, recommendations, and suggestions for problem solving and/or for specific assistance

• Share knowledge of health and social service information/ resources and other topics of benefit to caregivers

• Encourage caregivers to develop specific skills and knowledge that will improve their performance as caregivers

• Accept peers where they currently are with their life and skills in a non-judgmental manner 

• Provide approachable, warm and courteous relationships 

• Build trusting relationships and work towards mutual giving and receiving amongst peers

Ideal Qualifications, Skills, and Abilities:

• Current or previous caregiver/previous experience with caregiving

• Strong communication and listening skills

• Maintain collaborative relationships

• Uphold a positive, caring, and empathetic attitude

• Ability to commit to scheduling 4 mentor hours per month in-person or by phone (according to your schedule)

Interests:

• Mentorship

• Teaching/Coaching

• Health & Well-Being

• Developing new relationships