Day Program Volunteer - Company Description
Memory Lane Home Living Inc., based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is dedicated to transforming dementia care through a community-based, evidence-informed approach. The organization provides a warm, home-like environment focused on supporting women living with dementia and memory loss. Memory Lane is currently transitioning toward the Eden Alternative philosophy of care, an approach that emphasizes meaningful relationships, dignity, choice, independence, and quality of life. This transition reflects the organization's commitment to creating an environment where individuals feel valued, connected, purposeful, and at home.
Memory Lane offers a range of services, including day programs and permanent living, all designed to promote holistic well-being, independence, dignity, meaningful engagement, and strong family involvement. Its programs include the Community Connection Day Program, Music From The Heart, Respite Care, caregiver support groups, and Art From The Heart.
Through its compassionate and person-centred approach, Memory Lane strives to make quality dementia care more accessible and affordable while fostering meaningful connections among participants, families, caregivers, staff, and volunteers.
Role Description
The Day Program Volunteer is an on-site volunteer position based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, with a flexible commitment of approximately once a week or once every other week. Volunteers support participants in Memory Lane’s Community Connection Day Program and related activities.
Under the guidance of program staff, the volunteer helps facilitate daily programming, including social activities, music sessions, light exercise, cognitive engagement, and other meaningful experiences. Responsibilities include welcoming participants, providing companionship, encouraging participation in group activities, assisting with program set-up and clean-up, and supporting safe movement throughout the home-like environment.
The volunteer may also contribute observations and feedback to program staff and share ideas to enhance programming and participant experiences. Working collaboratively with staff, families, and caregivers, the volunteer helps create a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment that promotes dignity, connection, independence, and quality of life for individuals living with dementia.
Qualifications
- An interest in supporting older adults and individuals living with dementia.
- Previous experience working or volunteering with individuals living with dementia or memory loss is an asset.
- Students pursuing studies in healthcare-related fields, such as Recreation Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, Nursing, Personal Support Work (PSW), Social Work, Gerontology, Occupational Therapy, or related programs, are encouraged to apply.
- A compassionate, patient, empathetic, and respectful approach to interacting with others.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, participants, and families.
- Enthusiasm for participating in social, recreational, and meaningful engagement activities.
- Reliable, responsible, and willing to learn.
- Commitment to promoting dignity, inclusion, independence, and quality of life for individuals living with dementia.
Volunteer Commitment: Approximately once a week or once every other week.
Location: Richmond Hill, Ontario.
Previous experience is welcomed but not required. We encourage students and individuals interested in gaining experience in dementia care and older adult services to apply.
