Support Group Facilitator - Brandon

Organization Details
Organization Name: Parkinson Canada
Address: 4211 YONGE ST
Toronto ON  M2P 2A9
Website: http://https://www.parkinson.ca/
Organizational Description: Parkinson Canada is the definitive voice for the Parkinson's community in Canada. Our purpose is to transform the lives of people living with Parkinson's. We do this through research leading to better treatments and the end of Parkinson's, advocacy bringing the voices of Parkinson's to the forefront and support that helps people live well with Parkinson's through education and services. A national registered charity, Parkinson Canada operates through the generosity of donors and is an accredited organization under the Imagine Canada Standards Program.
Volunteer Opportunity Details
Volunteer Opportunity ID: 4932
   
Description of Duties:

Parkinson Canada Volunteer Opportunity
Support Group Facilitator

Parkinson's is a complex brain disease, and everyone's Parkinson's journey is different. More than 100,000 Canadians live with Parkinson's and 30 more are diagnosed every day. There is currently no cure but, life with Parkinson's is still possible.

At Parkinson Canada, people with Parkinson's are at the centre of everything we do. Parkinson Canada is at an exciting time of transformation, where we are aiming to be the "go to" connector and guide for people living with Parkinson's. We strive to inspire and empower people living with Parkinson's to thrive through tailored programs, innovative research and raising the voice of Canadians impacted by Parkinson's through our advocacy efforts.

If you want to make a positive impact on the lives of Canadians impacted by Parkinson's, work with passionate, dedicated people where diversity and inclusion is celebrated and partner with great organizations that have the same goal then we look forward to meeting you!

The Opportunity

The Support Group Facilitator plays a critical role in the delivery of support services at community level. Once a month, they create a confidential and welcoming in-person or virtual space, where people living with Parkinson's and/or their care partners can share their experiences and develop supportive relationships in a group setting. The time commitment for this opportunity is 3 - 5 hours per month.

Your Contribution

As a Support Group Facilitator, you bring a keen desire to make a difference in the lives of people affected by Parkinson's. Your empathetic approach, enthusiasm for learning, and ability to facilitate discussion about issues related to Parkinson's are key factors in ensuring that monthly support groups are safe spaces.

   
Skills Required:

What is Needed to Succeed in this Role

• Compassion and a non-judgemental approach to supporting people
• Strong communication skills including active listening
• Ability to facilitate discussions that put the voices of those living with and affected by Parkinson's at the centre
• Commitment to model inclusion and respect for diversity
• Love of learning
• Background in nursing, social work, or related field is an asset
• Enthusiasm to work closely with Parkinson Canada staff
• Ability to carry out administrative tasks and provide promotional support
• Level of comfort or willingness to become familiar with virtual meeting technology
• If support groups return to in-person activities, willingness to take on the logistical aspects of monthly group meetings

   
Skills Gained/Related Careers:

Benefits for Support Group Facilitators

As a volunteer Support Group Facilitator, you will learn more about Parkinson's and make a genuine impact in the lives of people living with Parkinson's and their care partners. You will meet wonderful new people and gain experience in the facilitation of groups, while contributing to the critical work of Parkinson Canada. References are available.

   
Age: 18-30, 31-54, 55+
Time Commitment:
Daytime
Evening
Weekend

The time of the meetings are to be determined
Commitment
One support group meeting per month (1-1.5 hours per month), plus 3-5 hours monthly for administrative and organizational tasks. Stability is essential for Support Groups so a commitment of at least one year is appreciated.

Location of volunteer opportunity: Brandon
Does opportunity require a criminal record check? Yes
Will cost be reimbursed? Yes
Does opportunity require a child abuse registry check? No
Opportunity is available to candidates that: Are able to attend with a support person
Uses a mobility device
French speaking / Bilingual (French and English)
Organization will provide: A letter of reference
Certificate of recognition
Evaluation
Supervision
Training/Orientation
Professional development and training oppotruntities
How to Apply:
Closing Date: Dec 31, 2025

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