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Volunteer
The Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay is fortunate to have over 230 volunteers, many of whom provide service on a regular ongoing basis.
Volunteers are recruited through the Volunteer Action Centre, public service announcements, word of mouth, public displays and promotional events, or often family members or friends of individuals affected by Alzheimer Disease opt to volunteer for the Society.
Potential volunteers must first go through an interview with the Volunteer Coordinator, followed by a screening process that helps us determine where they would be best suited to benefit the Society and also meet their needs and goals as a volunteer.
Training is provided as part of the orientation process; specific to the task each individual is assigned. Volunteers are also expected to participate in the Volunteer Training Session, Level One (at a minimum), which is offered on a regular basis.
Although not required by the Society (except in certain instances by the Gaming Control Commission), volunteers may become members by purchasing an annual membership ($15.00), which entitles them to voting privileges at the Annual General Meeting and a quarterly newsletter (the “Forget Me Not” Journal).
Current Opportunities
Office Help
Volunteers answer the telephone and respond to general inquiries, receipt donations, file, type, photocopy, create flyers and perform general office duties.
Fund Raising/Public Awareness: Numerous volunteers assist with planning and organizing of fundraising and special events, raffles, displays or any activity that will create awareness or raise funds for the Society.
Annual Walk:
The “Walk for Memories” is our major fundraiser, with anticipated revenue of $20,000.00. Due to the vast amount of planning required for this event, a task force is selected in February to begin preparations for the following year. Meetings are held monthly to organize logistics, marketing, sponsors and promotion.
Alzheimer Coffee Break
This is a nation-wide fund raising event held in conjunction with World Alzheimer Day, September 21. Task force members assist with the recruitment of “Coffee Break” hosts, kit delivery, donation pick up and promotion of the event.
Bingo Buddies
The Society runs late night bingos every Friday night (9:30pm to 12:30am) at the Diamond Bingo Hall. Bingos generate a large portion of our fund raising revenues and require 3 volunteers at each bingo. Volunteers are responsible for selling supplies, pay outs and clean up.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors governs the Society and establishes the strategic plan including short and long term goals and objectives for the Society. Many decisions are based on data presented by task forces compiled of Board Members. The Board of Directors meets on a monthly basis, with the exception of July, August and December.
V.I.P.P.’s
Very Important Penny People - volunteers are responsible for distributing Society coin boxes throughout the community, monitoring them, and rolling the coins collected.
Speakers Bureau
The Alzheimer Society is often requested to make presentations to community groups, service clubs and various organizations regarding Alzheimer Disease and related topics. Volunteers with personal and professional experience are recruited, trained and requested to assist with these presentations, or to represent the Society.
Family Support
Volunteers are recruited and trained specifically to assist with family support issues, including follow up phone calls to caregivers or the development and facilitation of support groups. Specialized training is provided for all family support volunteers.
Volunteers are greatly valued by the Society and are strongly encouraged to share their ideas and thoughts on how to improve volunteer programs and opportunities that we offer. In recognition of our volunteers and board members, each April the Society hosts a volunteer celebration. We greatly appreciate our volunteers and board members and all that they give to the Society, and realize that we exist today because of their efforts and support.
Volunteering for the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay
After initial contact with the Society, potential volunteers can expect the following:
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An interview and review of potential volunteer options
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A volunteer job description outlining responsibilities, expectations and guidelines
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Appropriate and ongoing training and evaluation
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Recognition and Appreciation
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Opportunity to learn, grow, meet new people, share your skills and know that you are making a difference in the lives of others.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer call or email us!
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