Memory Cafe

Volunteer Job Description: Memory Café Support Volunteer

Introduction:

We are seeking friendly and compassionate volunteers to join our Memory Café team. As a Memory Café Support Volunteer, you will play a vital role in creating a welcoming and engaging environment for individuals with dementia and their care partners. Your primary responsibilities will include serving refreshments, supporting participants in engaging in activities, and collaborating with the Memory Café staff members to design and deliver fun and meaningful activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Refreshment Service: Serve refreshments and drinks to participants warmly and invitingly.

• Activity Participation: Engage in and participate in all activities, such as arts and crafts, music sessions, or group discussions, to foster a sense of community and connection among attendees.

•  Caregiver Support: Provide onsite support for caregivers regarding activity setup, communication, and adaptation to facilitate individual activity engagement.

• Social Interaction: Facilitate conversations and interactions among participants, helping to build friendships and a sense of belonging.

• Environment Set up: Assist with setting up and cleaning up the environment as needed.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Friendly and Welcoming Attitude: Ability to create a warm and inclusive environment.

• Communication Skills: Effective communication skills to engage with participants with different cognitive abilities.

• Dementia Awareness: Basic understanding of dementia and its effects (training will be provided).

• Teamwork: Willingness to work collaboratively with other volunteers and staff.

• Flexibility: Ability to adapt to changing situations and needs.

Time Commitment:

• Frequency: Volunteer opportunities are available on a weekly basis.

• Duration: Each Memory Café session typically lasts 2 hours.

• Preparation Time: Occasional preparation time may be required for specific activities or events.

Training and Support:

• Dementia Awareness Training: Provided to ensure volunteers are equipped to support participants effectively.

• Ongoing Support: Regular updates and support from the Memory Café team to ensure a positive volunteering experience.

Benefits:

• Personal Fulfillment: Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals living with dementia. Building a positive and social community environment for people with dementia and their caregivers.

• Skill Development: Enhance communication and interpersonal skills with people with dementia. Understanding the needs of people with dementia and their caregivers during Memory Café. Designing appropriate activities for people with distinct cognitive abilities to engage in.

• Community Engagement: Become part of a supportive community that values inclusivity and social connection. Become an indispensable part of the team to create meaningful changes in the Memory Café.

If you are passionate about creating a supportive environment for individuals with dementia and their care partners, we invite you to join our team. Please email us at kgruber@jfsdelaware.org to learn more about Memory Cafe.