Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers play an integral role in delivering our promise of finding cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and improving the lives of Canadians living with these chronic diseases. As a volunteer with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, the impact of your efforts will be felt by the millions of Canadians affected by Crohn's or colitis today, and for years to come.
 
Our Gutsy Peer Support Program includes group events that provide a confidential, accessible, and safe-space for individuals living with IBD to connect, gain advice and tips, support one another, and build a sense of community. These online and in-person sessions are facilitated by volunteer facilitators who have been living with or caring for someone with Crohn’s or colitis are trained to provide online support to a group of individuals affected by these diseases. Group discussions include aspects of everyday living with IBD, such as work, school, relationships, mental health, diet and lifestyle. Volunteers will not provide medical advice and instead will receive training and resources on directing someone to medical advice.
 
We are seeking individuals who are passionate about making a difference in their community to join our team of dedicated volunteers in the role of Peer Support Facilitator for the Saskatchewan region.
 
This role can be done as a virtual and/or in-person volunteering opportunity.
 
This role may involve in-person interactions. Crohn’s and Colitis Canada encourages volunteers and community members to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as defined by their local or provincial Public Health authorities. We take the health, safety and well-being of our volunteers seriously, especially in light of the fact that people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis may have compromised immune systems, which is why we continue to follow the guidance of local Public Health authorities.
 
Are you the right fit to join our team?
 
As a Peer Support Facilitator, you will create space for individuals affected by IBD to connect with one another either online or in-person, including:
 

• Adhering to Crohn’s and Colitis Canada policies and procedures, including the Volunteer Code of Conduct
• Provide peer support using Crohn’s and Colitis Canada’s Corporate Zoom account or in-person support in your community
• Act within the boundaries of a facilitator role (training and support provided) 
• Co-host an online or in-person support session at least once per month
• Communicate regularly with staff partners to identify challenges and concerns 

 
Location: Virtual (remote) using Crohn’s and Colitis Canada’s corporate Zoom account and/or or in-person at a location in your local region that is identified by Crohn’s and Colitis Canada staff. Event venues will be accessible by car or public transportation. Volunteers will be requested to submit their preferred regions for in-person volunteering during the application process.
 
Time Commitment:

• Peer Support Group sessions typically occur during weekday evenings (Mon – Thurs). Occasionally, sessions may take place during the weekend (Sat-Sun) in the late-morning or afternoon time.
• Dedicating 3-6 hours per month to co-lead 1 to 2 group events. Each session takes place for 1.5 hours.
• Responsibilities for each group session includes: facilitating the live peer support session/event,1.5 hours for pre-session preparation (e.g. reviewing questions, comments, and topics of interests that were submitted by session registrants, and developing a group discussion guide for the live session), note-taking during the live session to capture participant feedback (e.g. participant questions, needs and concerns) for post-session participant follow-up and program evaluation purposes, and  communication with co-host or staff partner.
• The staff partner will contact you monthly to determine your availability for hosting sessions.
• Occasional availability for liaison with staff partners for training and program updates (via Zoom or email). 
• This role requires a commitment of a minimum of 1 year 

 
What you bring:

• Experience in navigating life with Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis for at least one year as a person diagnosed with IBD or caring for someone with IBD.
• A strong interest in empowering other people affected by IBD.
• A willingness to share your own experiences, advice, and tips. 
• A passion for reducing feelings of isolation and promoting a sense of belonging among members of the IBD community.
• Some experience or comfort operating online video platforms when required (training provided).
• Problem-solving skills and troubleshooting technical issues when required.
• Strong listening skills, empathy and coping skills.
• Ability to manage groups of varying sizes.
• Comfort with leading discussions and ensuring all participants have the opportunity to share or ask questions.
• Prior experience with group facilitation or peer support is considered an asset.

 
What we offer:

• A community of support, a dedicated staff partner, a team of peers and role-specific training.
• An opportunity to use and grow professional skills and expand your network.
• Access to unique opportunities for peer support volunteers including expert talks and networking. A hands-on chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people living with Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis in your community.

APPLY HERE!