Needs De: iVolunteer Powered by United Way British Columbia

The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is a non-profit provincial organization committed to supporting people affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. We offer education, resources, support groups, and fund research to help find the cause and a cure.  

As a Support Group Facilitator Volunteer, you will create a safe and welcoming space for caregivers of people living with dementia to connect, share, and support one another. You’ll guide group conversations, offer resources, and help participants feel heard and understood. At the core of this role is discretion, empathy, strong listening skills, and a belief in the capacity of peers to support one another.   

*Please note*  

You must be 19 years or older to volunteer for this role.  

If you are currently or have recently been the primary caregiver for someone with dementia, this role may not be suitable for you at this time, as group discussions could be emotionally triggering. 

This is the right role for you if you are someone who: 

Has excellent interpersonal and communication skills.  

Is an empathic listener.  

Is mature and able to establish healthy boundaries.  

Has cultural awareness, sensitivity, and respect for diversity.  

Wants to learn more about dementia, person-centeredlanguage and the resources available to people living with dementia, their families and caregivers.  

Is aware of/ has knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias 

Possibly has formal or informal caregiving experience. 

A Support Group Facilitator’s main tasks are: 

Establish a safe and welcoming environment for discussion and support by ensuring the ground rules for discussion are followed.  

Facilitate group discussion, ensuring everyone is included and feels empowered to participate.  

Provide information on programs, services, and education opportunities offered by the Alzheimer Society of B.C.  

Set up room and coordinate logistics.  

Complete a support group report including attendance and regular debriefs with the supervisor. 

References and a criminal record check are required. However, no prior experience is needed! Experience with group facilitation would be an asset. 

Support Group Facilitators are provided with a comprehensive training program. This includes: 

an orientation to the Alzheimer Society of B.C.;  

foundational learning about dementia;  

information about caregiving issues faced by families;  

training in group facilitation and maintaining healthy boundaries.  

Training takes approximately 28 hours to complete over a period of 2 to 3 months and includes a mix of self-directed and supervisor-led learning 

Time commitment: 

We ask that volunteers commit to 3 hours a month (includes prep time).  

Volunteering in this role offers you: 

Specialized facilitator training and experience  

Ongoing mentorship and support from Society staff  

The opportunity to make a real impact on caregivers’ lives  

A meaningful way to give back to your community 

The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is a non-profit provincial organization committed to supporting people affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. We offer education, resources, support groups, and fund research to help find the cause and a cure. 

As a Minds in Motion Assistant, you’ll help create a fun, inclusive environment where people living with early symptoms of dementia can enjoy light fitness and social activities with a care partner. You’ll support participants, encourage interaction, and assist with setup and activities during the session. 

This is the right role for you if you are someone who: 

Enjoys being with people 

Is comfortable facilitating social interactions.  

Is patient, friendly and comfortable  

Wants to support a judgement-free, inclusive environment.  

Understands and respects personal boundaries when working with vulnerable adults.  

Already knows or has the willingness to learn more about dementia and how to support people living with early symptoms of dementia.  

Is physically able to participate in the fitness part of the program.  

Can assist with distribution of exercise equipment, which may involve lifting light weights.  

References and criminal record check required.  

A Minds in Motion Assistant’s main tasks are: 

Assisting with set-up and clean-up of refreshments, games and activities.  

Helping participants during the fitness program, when needed.  

Encouraging social interaction to ensure all participants feel included, engaged, and have an enjoyable experience/is able to participate in activities and socializing.  

To spend 1 to 1 time with participants who need extra support, when needed. 

No prior experience is needed! Onsite training and supervision are provided, along with orientation to the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and foundational education about dementia. Experience working with older adults or individuals with dementia is a bonus, but not necessary. 

Time commitment: 

We ask that volunteers commit to 2 hours a week.  

Volunteering in this role offers you: 

In-person training, ongoing mentorship, and staff support 

Practical experience supporting people living with dementia 

The opportunity to foster connection, joy, and community in a meaningful setting 

Experience supporting a fun, engaging volunteer experience in a structured social program