The program provides a supportive space where participants can connect with others, engage in meaningful activities, and experience a sense of community.  Each session is shaped by the interests of participants and focuses on promoting the six domains of wellbeing: cognitive, emotional, social, spiritual, vocational, and physical. The program also provides care partners with dedicated respite time while their loved one participates.

Volunteers will support the program by creating a warm and inclusive environment where participants can build meaningful connections, engage in activities, and feel supported.  Volunteer will work alongside the Therapeutic Recreation Facilitator and other volunteers to encourage participation and enhance the overall program experience.  One volunteer may also take on the role of Lead Volunteer to provide additional support and guidance to fellow volunteers during sessions. 

Tasks/Responsibilities: 

• Greet and welcome participants as they arrive at the program.
• Take attendance each session and share it with the program facilitator/staff supervisor.
• Assist the Therapeutic Recreation Facilitator with program activities and encourage participant engagement.
• Engage participants in conversations and activities to foster social connection and a sense of belonging.
• Build positive relationships with participants through consistent weekly interaction.
• Support participants based on their interests, abilities, and comfort level.
• Observe participants to help ensure safety and provide assistance when needed.
• Assist with setup, takedown, and maintaining cleanliness within the program space, as needed.
• Help create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all participants, including individuals living with varying stages of dementia.
• If assigned as Lead Volunteer, provide support and guidance to fellow volunteers and help promote teamwork during program sessions.

Qualifications: 

• Enjoy working with others and feel comfortable initiating conversations and building relationships.
• Punctual and reliable.
• Patient, friendly, and adaptable; comfortable supporting individuals with different abilities and communication styles.
• Experience working or communicating with people living with dementia will be an asset.
• Comfortable engaging with individuals living with dementia using a respectful and person-centered approach.
• A second language (particularly Tamil, Bengali, or Chinese) will be an asset.
• Be physically able to participate in the program.

Time Commitment & Location:   

• Volunteers will be scheduled on a rotating basis (approximately every other Wednesday), starting October 7, 2026.
• From 9:30am – 2:30pm (program is from 10:00am – 2:00pm, extra time allow for setup and cleanup).
• Mandatory volunteer training during the week of September 16, 2026, is required.
• *Minimum 6-month commitment required.
• In-person at Alzheimer Society Toronto - The Mid-Scarborough Hub - 2658 Eglinton Avenue East, Scarborough, M1K 2R5.
• AST is a mask friendly environment.  Feel free to bring your own mask.  A mask may be provided if available.

Orientation/Training:

• Completion of all The Social Mandatory Training Program - Volunteers (this includes AST and SSN - specific training).
• Half-day training focused on meaningful engagement and social recreation.
• Dementia-specific training (no more than one full day).
• Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) training.

Screening:

All applicants will be required to submit a volunteer application, attend an interview, and provide two references to be contacted by SSN.  Applicants must also agree to a background check.

Supervision:

This role will be supervised by the Senior Services Network Therapeutic Recreation Facilitator, with support from both SSN and AST Recreation team.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to offer skills and experience in a meaningful way.
• Formal and informal appreciation for your contribution to the Society’s work.
• Be an integral part of a team working toward a better quality of life for persons with dementia and their care partners.
• Gain front line experience working with persons with dementia.
• A letter of reference, upon completion of commitment (if requested).