Volunteers assist with and/or co-facilitate bereavement support groups for seniors, adults, teens & children. Advanced training is also available for 1:1 grief companioning. There is an opportunity for teens aged 13+ to be “Teen Buddies” in the Children’s Bereavement Group. A modified application applies to Teen Buddy Volunteers. Please speak with coordinator for details.
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2 - 3 hours per week for 8-week groups 1-2 times per year.
Process to Become a Bereavement Volunteer
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Review our website and familiarize yourself with what we do.
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Complete the
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Contact HKA to make arrangements for an interview with the volunteer and bereavement services coordinator. Provide coordinator with your completed application form. Be prepared to answer questions about why you wish to volunteer, what you will be able to contribute, and please be familiar and comfortable with or willing to learn about the type of support we provide.
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Reference checks will be completed by coordinator.
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Volunteer will be registered by HKA staff for Bereavement Group Facilitator Training which is held twice a year.
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Volunteer will need to obtain a “Police Vulnerable Sector Check” through York Region Police www.yrp.ca ($20 fee to be paid by volunteer).
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Upon completion of training, volunteer will attend a HKA Orientation.
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Volunteers are asked to complete at least two continuing education sessions offered by HKA and/or in the community on an annual basis.