Position Overview A peer-listener volunteer reaches out and connects directly with individuals across Canada that are going through a particularly challenging time with arthritis. This program provides an opportunity for individuals connecting to the Arthritis Line to then connect one-on-one with someone living with a similar arthritis experience. This program is intended to provide an opportunity for brief peer conversations and is not meant to be an ongoing or long-term support. We are looking for volunteers living with Osteoarthritis for this role.Time Commitment Volunteers are asked to commit to approximately 5 hours per month, consisting of brief weekly check-ins to monitor the peer-listener inbox and supporting around 2 scheduled shifts (to be determined with program staff and based on your availability) for 2-4 peer-listener calls We ask for a minimum commitment of 6 months Occasional meetings, support sessions, and professional development sessions offered throughout the year Key Areas of Responsibility Support callers who may feel emotional, overwhelmed or fearful Provide information and support to people affected by arthritis Support program referrals and requests via phone and email Direct callers to the online tools and resources on the Arthritis Society Canada website Direct callers to local supports and resources Data entry related to interactions, tracking, and reporting/documentation Desired Skills & Attributes Lived experience with arthritis is required for this role (ideally looking for someone with osteoarthritis) Passionate about, and committed to, bettering the lives of those affected by arthritis Experience working and interacting with people Empathetic, friendly, and non-judgmental, with professional phone manner Willingness to undertake training appropriate to the role (active listening, crisis training, etc.), and learn about Arthritis Society Canada’s resources Ability to work effectively with staff and other volunteers remotely, and comfortable working with technology Experience and knowledge of a helping profession is an asset, but not required Must have access to a personal computer, reliable and secure internet, and be able to work remotely from home in a private location for confidentiality reasons Major Contacts An Arthritis Society Canada Staff member will directly oversee this role People affected by arthritis Other volunteers and Arthritis Society Canada staff Working Environment This position is remote, volunteers can participate where they have access to personal technology, internet, and a private environment. Applicant Review Process Due to the scope and structure of this role, a criminal record check is required to be completed before a prospective volunteer is accepted to the program. Costs associated with completing the criminal record check for volunteering with our organization will be covered by Arthritis Society Canada. Having an interaction with the criminal system does not automatically remove the possibility of volunteering with us – Arthritis Society Canada recognizes that people with certain lived experiences may be disproportionately represented within criminal systems. Should you wish to speak to our volunteer team about the required criminal record check, potential results, or complications that may arise, we invite you to do so at any point in your application process - before, or after, the check is completed. How to applyCreate your profile: Start here: https://arthritis.galaxydigital.com/user/register/Find and apply: Click “Respond”: https://arthritis.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=821454 Next steps: We’ll review your profile and contact you with next steps.We thank all applicants for their interest in volunteering with Arthritis Society Canada, however, please be advised that not all candidates can be selected to join our volunteering program.
