volunteer and kids with pumpkins

Volunteer

Compeer thrives on support from the community; volunteers allow each program to deliver quality service and friendship to our clients who are striving for mental wellness.

Volunteer Roles

Though volunteer roles vary by location, all offer 1-to-1 friendship support. Serving in the role of a 1-to-1 friend, you will assist a client’s experience with consistent social support. Visits occur in-person, virtually, and/or over the phone. Visits with your friend can be over a cup of coffee, taking a walk, playing games, going out to eat, going to a community event, and more. For four hours a month over the course of one year, you are modeling what it means to have a consistent and caring friend. Matches are made based upon several factors, including hobbies, areas of interest, location, and age.

Key Responsibilities

  • If you care, you qualify!

  • Be a friend! In this role you are not a therapist, social worker, babysitter, or parent.

  • You are a positive role model, helping to raise self-esteem, build trust, increase a sense of belonging, and encourage independence (strength-based approach).

  • Consistent communication skills utilizing phone, virtual, and in-person method of communication as appropriate.

  • Communication with your friend weekly, spending about 4 hours of time per month for 1 year.

  • Introduce your friend to Compeer events, as well as community activities as appropriate.

  • Able to clearly articulate and maintain boundaries with your friend.

  • Consistently report hours of service to Compeer each month .
hugging ones friend in support

Eligibility Requirements

    • Minimum age of 18.

 

    • Available for weekly phone call, virtual visit, or in-person visit (average of 4 hours per month).

 

    • Background check clearance.

 

    • Basic understanding of mental health.

 

    • Ability to demonstrate empathy and effective communication skills.

 

Find a Compeer program near you to learn more about the variety of roles available and to apply. No Compeer location near you? We also offer virtual volunteer opportunities that may be the right fit for your time and talents. To discuss virtual volunteering, please contact us at info@compeerbuffalo.org
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Copyright © 2024

Compeer’s Purpose:  We strive to empower communities worldwide to implement the Compeer model of nonclinical social engagement programs, fostering mental wellbeing through meaningful connections.

 

Values:  Compassion • Opportunity • Mental Wellbeing • Peer Affiliate Support • Equity & Belonging • Empowerment • Relationships

 

Compeer recruits, screens, and matches trained volunteers and mentors in one-to-one supportive friendship relationships with children, adults, military veterans and seniors who are striving for good mental health.

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