ACT Volunteer Role Description

Buddy

(Recruiting)




Programme


Community Support Programs

Supervisor


Community Support Programs Coordinator

ACT's
Mission Statement


The AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT) develops and delivers innovative programs and services that promote the dignity, health and well-being of individuals and communities living with, affected by and at risk for HIV/AIDS..




Purpose


To improve the quality of life of a person living with HIV/AIDS (PHA) by providing ongoing support and companionship and by assisting the PHA in maintaining autonomy and independence to the greatest extent possible. To assist the PHA in resolving the emotional and practical issues that arise as a result of the impact of living with HIV/AIDS, and to assist the PHA in problem solving and in implementing decisions

Benefits


-occasional opportunities to participate in HIV/AIDS related conferences and/or events, social events for volunteers and their buddies, and inservice training at ACT.

Time Commitment


5 hours per week
for 12 months

Duties


The Volunteer will:
-provide emotional and practical support in a flexible and empathic manner to assist PHAs in solving the problems of daily life
-ensure the total confidentiality of all communications with a PHA

-contact the PHA on a regular basis (minimum of one contact per week) and make him/herself available to the PHA at mutually agreed upon times
-maintain a friendly and open relationship with the PHA while observing the protocol as outlined during the Buddy training
-contact the Buddy Program Coordinator when special needs of the PHA arise
-attend and participate in Buddy volunteer team meetings, skills development workshops and Buddy training sessions
-act as resource person for the PHA in accessing ACT and/or other community support services
-notify the Buddy Coordinator of any changes in their life which may impact the quality of service being offered to the PHA

Personal Qualities
and Skills


Required Qualities & Skills:
-good communication skills
-good understanding of personal strengths and limitations
-clear sense of personal boundaries
-ability to be empathic
-ability to accept people for who they are and be able to provide supportive, nonjudgemental service
-ability to be flexible
-willingness to engage in ongoing training and development
-willingness to attend monthly buddy volunteer meetings

Training
Requirements


Volunteer Core Skills Training, Program-Specific Training, On-the-job Training with Supervisor and/or other Volunteers



For more information about or to apply for this role, contact:
Program Volunteer Resources Manager
AIDS Committee of Toronto
399 Church Street, 4th floor
Toronto, M5B 2J6

phone: (416) 340-2437