With the COVID-19 restriction lifted, we are hoping to provide more in-person support for our information & Referral program.

If you are interested in being a volunteer to support the seniors in this program, please contact Alex at alex.hill@southvan.org

Posting is below:

Purpose:

The Information and Referrals (I&R) volunteer plays an important role in helping older adults to:

  • improve their confidence and ability to use the senior’s services in their communities
  • increase their utilization of community-based/provincial/federal resources and supports
  • improve their quality of life
  • increase their sense of social connectedness and empowerment

Position Objectives:

  • Provide localized information & referrals for older adults in South Vancouver who need one-to-one support to access needed services and government benefits
  • Connect seniors with activities and programs throughout South Vancouver to enhance their well-being

General responsibilities:

  • Provide seniors with information by phone, email or in person when in-person services resume (e.g. housing, transportation, finances, legal, income tax, health, food, etc.)
  • Assist seniors with application forms online, over the telephone, and/or on paper
  • Assist seniors with the translation of resource information and act as a liaison when appropriate
  • Refer seniors to other departments within SVNH or to appropriate service providers
  • Commit to a minimum of three hours each month
  • Maintain confidentiality and security of all client information
  • Attend required orientation session, 12-hour I&R volunteer resource training and other volunteer training when appropriate
  • Abide by SVNH’s Infectious Disease Safety Plan

Qualifications and skills:

  • Existing knowledge or willingness to learn about provincial and federal benefits available to seniors
  • Basic computer skills
  • Comfortable working with seniors
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Access to wifi, computer, and/or phone
  • A strong attention to detail
  • Patient and friendly; be able to treat all seniors with dignity and respect
  • Proven ability to work interdependently in a collaborative environment with colleagues
  • Fluency in another language commonly spoken in South Vancouver is an asset

Screening practices:

  • Be 18 years of age or older
  • Ability to provide two (non-family) references
  • Abide by the confidentiality agreement around client information
  • Respect and abide by SVNH’s policies, procedures and codes of conduct and ethics
  • Must undergo a Criminal Record Check through the South Vancouver Neighbourhood House (no charge)
  • Able to commit to a minimum of 1 year.

Benefits:

  • Gain experience working with older adults
  • Gain experience working in the non-profit
  • Free training and skills development
  • Make a positive impact for older adults in the community
  • Chance to build relationships and make new friends

Scheduling: Flexible

Supervision: Navigation and Peer Support Coordinator