Peer Support Companion

The Community Companions Program is a telephone and internet-based program for individuals experiencing feelings of isolation due to COVID-19, and for caregivers and loved ones of people experiencing extreme feelings of isolation. Individuals living with these feelings may have a specific question or may just want to connect with someone who understands. Sometimes the best person to talk to is someone who has been there. We are at a unique point in the world where we can all share one common experience and grow together as a community because of it. Volunteers from across Parkland County are provided with extensive training and screening to ensure they have the skills to best help those looking for support.

 

Volunteers for this program are individuals who have experienced and overcome feelings of isolation and loneliness due to COVID-19 and are looking to extend support, knowledge and are looking to give back and reconnect with their community. Volunteers will be matched with someone looking for support (a ‘peer’) and the resulting one-to-one connection is called a ‘match.’

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Volunteers in this program will:

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Be 18 years of age of older
Live in the Parkland County area or have knowledge of resources and locations within Parkland County
Have either:
Been heavily affected by COVID-19 and mandatory lockdowns OR
identify as a caregiver / loved one of someone who has been heavily affected by COVID-19 and mandatory lockdowns
Be at a place in their own journey where they can provide support to others
Display compassion and a willingness to learn and share with others in order to form meaningful connections
 

 
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The responsibilities of the volunteer include:

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Develop a peer support relationship with a peer by engaging in regular contact and providing the following as needed: a) emotional support; b) referral and resource information; c) practical suggestions and coping skills
Maintain contact for 6 months (unless extenuating circumstances arise), and communicate by agreed-upon methods (phone, email, etc.) at mutually agreeable times
Refer issues that are beyond the parameters of the volunteer position back to the Team Lead or to crisis response services , so that resources can be provided, and problems can be resolved
Keep relatively informed and maintain up-to-date on information about COVID-19 and COVID-19 relation guidelines, restrictions and programs
Have knowledge of community resources (where applicable)
Maintain an ongoing professional relationship with the Coordinator and Team Lead, who is a resource for both the volunteer and the peer 
Be aware of limitations and maintain personal boundaries, and respect the boundaries of the peer receiving support
Complete all applicable training and forms, including a Vulnerable Sector Check
Comply with CommunityAIM’s policies, procedures and protocols
Attend weekly virtual debrief meetings at a time and day agreed upon by volunteer team
Track the approximate number of hours spent providing peer support per month, and follow up with the Coordinator on a monthly basis
Communicate urgent needs and issues immediately to the Team Lead or Coordinator
Agree to a 6 month volunteer commitment once trained and matched with a peer
 



Additional Required Qualifications:

Experience working with vulnerable populations. Strong knowledge of local resources and willingness to continue educating self on available resources and guidelines. Strong communication skills. Ability to work remotely.

 
ASIST, Mental Health First Aid or SPRAM Training required before start date 



 Preferred Qualifications:

Post secondary education in Psychology, Social Work, Addictions or related field is considered an asset. 



Please note that 2 references will be required for consideration