Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives (RCRG) is seeking volunteers for its senior peer counselling program, which pairs seniors with fellow seniors for one-on-one support.
Volunteers will act as "an important point of connection" by providing immediate emotional support for those who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, loneliness and grief, and help connect them to health and community resources that might be difficult to navigate.
The program was established based on the belief that seniors prefer speaking with their peers who might share similar life experiences and they might feel more at ease with volunteers, according to RCRG's media release.
Volunteers will be asked to complete a free 44-hour training course that covers topics including communication, active listening and empathetic response, as well as stress management.
“For older adults, this is a unique and truly rewarding volunteer opportunity,” said Dickson.
“You’ll gain new skills, but you’ll also be encouraged to draw on your own knowledge and experience. You’ll find that, simply by listening and being supportive, you can have a transformative impact on a senior’s life.”
The senior peer counselling program is supported by the Gilmore and Courtyard Gardens Community Fund and the Jewish Seniors Alliance.
The next training session is expected to take place virtually starting on Feb. 1, 2023. To volunteer or learn more about the progam, call 604-279-7020 or email [email protected].
