Thanks
to the
organizations that facilitate our web site.....
Our Volunteers
We rely extensively on our corps of volunteers, who, in total,
provide over 200 hours per month, reducing the workload for the staff
enormously. Each volunteer is carefully screened and participates in a 35-hour
training program before beginning her or his involvement with our programs.
Because of the intensity of the screening process and the rewarding nature of
our programs, the volunteer turnover rate has been incredibly low since we first
opened.
Spirit of the Child Award
In 2001 Seasons Centre initiated an annual award entitled “Spirit
of the Child" which was awarded to Brittany Sherwood. Brittany was a participant
at the Centre for 3 years, then became a grief facilitator. Brittany was a
valued volunteer for 3 years prior to moving to Ottawa to attend University.
Click on the following to read a bio on winners from each year: 2002 2003, 2004,
2005!
Volunteer Appreciation
Only one week of the year is designated to recognize the
incredible contributions made by volunteers in their community. Every single day
at the Centre volunteer hours are being utilized in every single aspect. But
once a year is not enough, this group of extra ordinary people take part in the
healing of the heart of a child every day! Thank you to all of you, for all you
do.
Interested in Volunteering?
Listed below are the volunteer positions that we currently have
available. If you are interested in one or more areas, please e-mail us at
info@grievingchildren.com.
We will contact you as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!
Special Events Volunteers
People are needed to assist with fundraising events, including
special events that create community awareness and generate revenue. Interested
parties should be enthusiastic, outgoing and enjoy people. jenny@grievingchildren.com
Volunteer Grief Facilitators
Work with children in support groups at the Centre. If you are
interested in this very special and rewarding position, we will need the
following:
• three written references
• a criminal reference check
• a completed questionnaire
• a bi-weekly time commitment
• your participation in a 35 hour training program
Interested volunteers are required to make a one-year commitment to working with
their assigned groups. joan@grievingchildren.com
Volunteer Program Assistants
In this position, you would prepare special projects, mix paints,
organize the Arts & Crafts Room, keep inventory control lists, repair teddy
bears, organize playrooms, decorate for various seasons and special events.
Volunteers should be interested in arts & crafts and have a working knowledge in
this area.
Training Session Overview
The training that our volunteers receive is spread out over four
days.
Day One
An introduction to Seasons Centre, our mandate, mission statement
and principles will begin the day. This day includes a time for introduction to
one another and a time for sharing with each other the reasons for wanting to
work with children in grief.
Throughout day one participants will find common connections with new people. In
addition, they will learn the value of sharing and debriefing, and the
importance of confidentiality.
This is an intense and personal day. Participants leave feeling they have met
some very special people with whom they have built an uncommon bond. Day Two
On this day participants reflect back to the previous day and
deal with the effects that may arise as a result.
Activities to focus on personal issues of loss will be used to demonstrate a
child’s journey through grief.
Day Three
The third day focuses on activities to allow participants to gain
a deeper understanding of a child’s perception of and means of expressing grief.
Developmental levels of children and the tasks facing those in grief are also
explored.
Day Four
During the last day, participants learn to structure activities
for children using different means of expression. They also learn new methods
for fully understanding children’s communication techniques.
Group facilitation and communication techniques will also be taught.
In Service
Representatives from the community are invited to speak on topics
of interest and to answer questions and concerns that volunteers may have (ie,
funeral directors, psychologists). In service gatherings are held at various
times throughout the year.
Volunteer Testimonials
"I gained a sense that I was able to give back to my community.
The facilitators are very supportive of each other as well as the children. The
groups build a bond and become very cohesive". S.L.
"I gained warm acquaintances and a personal joy from
volunteering. I have a different sense of purpose and usefulness". D.A.
"The best part of the group is the sense of camaraderie among the volunteers and
children. I love to watch the spirit of the children grow and deepen with time.
Although I feel sad at the reality of their lives, I could never leave". C.H.
"The best part of the group is the way the kids and buddies bonded. I gain a
personal sense of gratification and a sense of peace that while I can’t change
it I can help a child who is grieving". S.P.
"The most rewarding thing is to see the change in the children as they move
through their process and feeling that, as a member of the Centre, I can make a
difference". A.V.
"As I move towards a new life, a piece of me will remain here. Thank you for an
incredible experience, one I will not forget". J.M.
