Online Peer Support Group Facilitator (Virtual) - Living with Osteoarthritis

Position Overview

As a Peer Support Group Facilitator, you, a person living with Osteoarthritis, will have the opportunity to lead virtual support sessions for individuals living with or impacted by arthritis. This role supports the Arthritis Connections - Aide entreAide program, where participants come together to learn, share, and connect over the impacts of arthritis on their lives. Your primary responsibility will be to host virtual peer support groups, welcome participants, facilitate conversations, provide opportunities for group members to connect, and maintain a safe, open dialogue within the group. This role is an excellent fit for someone who is comfortable with technology, public speaking, facilitation, and has a personal connection to arthritis.

Time Commitment

• Approximately 1-1.5 hours per session


• At least one session per month


• Commitment to at least 6 months of service

This is a flexible role with no fixed schedule. Volunteer engagement may vary depending on the needs of the Arthritis Connections program.

Key Areas of Responsibility

• Facilitate virtual peer support groups for individuals living with or impacted by arthritis


• Welcome participants and create an inclusive, comfortable space for discussion


• Guide group conversations and encourage participants to share their experiences


• Ensure a supportive and respectful environment that fosters open and safe dialogue


• Provide information, resources, and emotional support when appropriate


• Collaborate with Arthritis Society Canada staff to enhance the effectiveness of support sessions

Desired Skills & Attributes

• This role is intended for individuals living with arthritis.


• Passionate about supporting individuals affected by arthritis


• Comfortable with technology, public speaking, and virtual facilitation


• Strong communication and listening skills


• Ability to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment


• Personal connection to arthritis or experience with arthritis is an asset


• Experience with group facilitation is an asset

Availability & Working Environment

• This is a remote opportunity, with sessions conducted virtually


• Volunteers are required to complete online training before facilitating sessions


• Volunteers should have access to reliable internet and a quiet space to host virtual sessions

Major Contacts

• An Arthritis Society Canada staff member will provide direct oversight for this role


• Fellow peer support group facilitators and program participants

Working Environment

This position is primarily virtual, with sessions held online. Volunteers can participate from any location with reliable internet access.

We thank all applicants for their interest in volunteering with Arthritis Society Canada. Please note that not all candidates will be selected to join our volunteer program.

This role is ideal for someone living with Osteoarthritis who is passionate about supporting others. Key skills include:

• Comfort with technology and leading virtual sessions


• Strong communication, active listening, and public speaking abilities


• Ability to facilitate group discussions and encourage participation


• Creating a supportive, inclusive, and non-judgmental environment


• Personal experience with arthritis or understanding of its impact


• Previous experience in group facilitation is an asset

Volunteers in this role will have the opportunity to develop:

• Group facilitation and leadership skills in a virtual setting


• Enhanced communication, active listening, and empathy


• Confidence in public speaking and guiding discussions


• Ability to create inclusive, supportive, and safe spaces


• Experience collaborating with a professional health organization


• Greater understanding of the lived experience of arthritis

• Each peer support session lasts approximately 1-1.5 hours.


• Volunteers are asked to facilitate at least one session per month.


• A minimum commitment of 6 months is required to ensure continuity for group participants.


• Scheduling is flexible-volunteers can choose sessions that fit their availability.


• Additional time may be needed for pre-session preparation, post-session follow-up, or collaboration with staff, depending on program needs.

• Online Application Form Below
• Email: volunteer@arthritis.ca (Include Opportunity ID)
• Online: arthritis.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=821152