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Alzheimer Society seeks West Shore volunteers

West Shore residents have opportunity to get involved

The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is sending a call out to West Shore residents who want to experience the rewarding task of making a difference in people’s lives.

Volunteers are needed to help the society with everything from making phone calls to working as caregivers to facilitating support groups.

Volunteers are especially needed for support groups and education programs, run throughout Greater Victoria including the West Shore.

There are a few basic requirements for volunteers doing those particular roles.

The candidate must have excellent listening skills, knowledge of dementia (or a willingness to learn) and facilitation skills.

Formal or informal caregiving experience is also an asset.

More mature volunteers are ideal for the support groups.

Younger volunteers are needed for other roles, but when helping older families in need, a volunteer with life experience is more effective.

“A lot of the issues that come up can be difficult,” said regional support and education co-ordinator Meriel Randerson. “So (it’s best to have) somebody who is sensitive and feels they have the confidence to deal with somebody who’s crying and very stressed out.”

West Shore residents who volunteer may not necessarily end up working on the West Shore, although the society does run programs here.

“As long as they’re interested and willing, we have lots of different opportunities for volunteers and can offer a lot of variety and experience,” First Link co-ordinator Emily Pridham said.

Anyone interested in volunteering can contact volunteer co-ordinator Julie Cameron at 250-382-2052 or by email at jcameron@alzheimerbc.org.

kwells@goldstreamgazette.com