Alzheimer Society of BC (Minds in Motion Assistant)

Organization Name: Alzheimer Society of BC
Opportunity Title: Minds in Motion Assistant
Category: Social and Community Service
Commitment: Less than 6 months
Start Date: December 21, 2016
End Date: December 20, 2017

Email: mrutherford@alzheimerbc.org
Website: http://www.alzheimerbc.org
Details:

• Background/police check required
• Appropriate for volunteers aged between 18 and 55
• Appropriate for volunteers aged 55 and over
• Training or orientation required

Opportunity Description:

“The instructors and volunteers are friendly and we can tell they truly care how we are feeling. They make this program inclusive and fun. We love the camaraderie and great people.” Minds in Motion® participant   Minds in Motion® Assistant role: Minds in Motion® is a gentle fitness program followed by socializing and activities designed to stimulate thinking, play, laughter and conversation. Minds in Motion® Assistants: Provide assistance to participants during the fitness program Assist with set-up and clean-up of refreshments, games and activities Help ensure everyone has the opportunity to be included, has an enjoyable experience, and is able to participate in activities and socializing   Commitment: Minimum 3 month commitment 3 to 4 hours per week Some flexibility re: school schedules, traveling, etc.   Benefits: Increased knowledge about dementia and family caregiving Opportunity to support people with dementia and those caring for them Position may count towards training and experience for direct support volunteer positions, including workshop or support group facilitator roles References/reference letters may be provided to volunteers who have successfully completed 6 or more months in their position   Requirements: Enjoys being with people, and is comfortable reaching out and including others Is patient, friendly and fun; comfortable in a non-competitive, inclusive environment Is sensitive to boundaries in working with vulnerable adults Is physically able to participate in the fitness part of the program Is able to lift light weights (supplies) Experience working with older adults and/or people with dementia would be helpful   Training: Orientation to Society programs, services and information resources Access to Alzheimer Society dementia education programs