For Annemarie Travers, volunteering with the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is about more than just giving her time. It’s also about finding purpose and making a meaningful contribution to society.
Travers began giving her time as a support group facilitator following her sister-in-law’s diagnosis of dementia six years ago. It’s a gift that has only grown more valuable as the need for volunteers grows alongside the need for more dementia support. The province’s only charity dedicated to supporting people affected by dementia is sending out an urgent call for more residents in Chilliwack to help provide critical support.
More than 85,000 people are living with dementia in B.C. By 2030, that number is expected to rise to nearly 134,000. As the society expands its services to mitigate dementia’s growing impact, the charity is relying on the generosity of people like Travers to ensure support is available. The need for support group volunteers has never been greater.
“Being part of a support group allows me to stay grounded and empathize with what my sister-in-law is going through,” says Travers, also a devoted grandmother with a passion for long-distance walking, cooking and knitting. “It’s an opportunity to use my strengths and offer support to those who need it most.”
The Alzheimer Society of B.C needs volunteers to fill a range of in-person positions. With 65 per cent of not-for-profit organizations experiencing a shortage of new volunteers and half of them struggling with volunteer retention according to a recent Imagine Canada report, people like Travers can have an impact well beyond their communities.
Support group volunteers experience the camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes along with making a difference in the lives of people affected by dementia. They play a vital role in creating a safe and open space for people living with dementia as well as their caregivers by enabling people to share their concerns, find solutions and receive valuable information to support their decision-making.
The Society offers comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure that volunteers are equipped with the knowledge and resources necessary to excel in their roles.
“By volunteering with us, you have the power to bring joy, comfort and support to people affected by dementia,” says Anna Markey, a Support & Education Coordinator, First Link, for the Society’s East Fraser region. “Our volunteers have the opportunity to show people affected by dementia they’re not alone.”
Groups meet once a month and a monthly time commitment of three to six hours is required, for a minimum of one year. This commitment is invaluable in creating an environment where caregivers can find information and understanding. Ideal candidates will have excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills, a willingness to learn and a strong understanding of boundaries.
Visit alzheimer.ca/bc/en/take-action/volunteer/current-volunteer-opportunities/fraser-region-volunteer-opportunities to explore the various volunteer opportunities available and learn more about the impactful work they do.