Nova Scotia: Hospital Peer Connector Volunteer (Various locations)


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The Opportunity:

The Hospital Peer Connector Program offers a chance to make a profound impact on the recovery journeys of stroke survivors. By connecting individuals further along in recovery with those just beginning their path to healing, volunteers provide invaluable emotional support, share personal recovery and caregiving experiences, and offer hope and encouragement. Volunteers will engage with patients in hospital settings, including acute care, inpatient, or outpatient rehabilitation units. 

This is a unique opportunity to help others navigate the challenges of recovery, combat feelings of isolation, and inspire confidence during a challenging and uncertain time. Your involvement will serve as a comforting presence and a beacon of hope, making a lasting difference in someone’s recovery journey. 


Main Responsibilities

  • Engage in one-on-one conversations with patients in a respectful, calm, and supportive manner 
  • Share your personal stroke recovery or caregiving experience to provide hope and motivation 
  • Respect the patient’s level of comfort and adjust the depth of conversation accordingly 
  • Introduce patients to the MODC After Stroke personalized case management program and other community-based support programs using provided materials 
  • Participate in regular debriefs with the Volunteer Engagement Coordinator 
  • Follow all hospital and MODC policies, including public health guidelines
  • Report any concerns regarding a patient’s emotional or physical health to hospital staff and the Volunteer Engagement Coordinator promptly 
  • Share information about ongoing support through MODC programs to encourage continued engagement after discharge
  • Record and report your volunteer hours and visits monthly to the Volunteer Engagement Coordinator or through volunteer database

Time Commitment: Minimum 6-month commitment; minimum 2-3 hours per week.
Locations:  Kentville, Truro, and Antigonish

Skills and Experience
  • Must be over 18 years of age
  • Must be a stroke survivor (12 months post stroke) or a caregiver for someone who has had a stroke 
  • Strong interpersonal skills, including active listening skills and ability to express empathy and understanding
  • Reliable, self-motivated, and able to work independently with little supervision 
  • Demonstrates a positive, encouraging, and supportive attitude in all interactions 
  • Understands and respects personal boundaries, seek guidance when necessary 
  • Values and embraces cultural diversity and different perspectives 
  • Comfortable sharing personal experiences and utilizing evidence-based resources
  • Respects and values cultural diversities, the opinions, and ideas of others

Benefits of the Position

  • Gain experience in a hospital setting and develop a greater understanding of stroke rehabilitation
  • Opportunity to have a positive impact on those who have been affected by stroke
  • Opportunity to develop and strengthen your communication skills
  • Participate as a valued volunteer of March of Dimes Canada and of assigned hospital Screening Requirements - MODC

Application