Peer Support Group Facilitators and Co-Facilitator Volunteers

Volunteer Centre of Calgary; British Columbia; Hybrid; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A local volunteer organization in British Columbia seeks Peer Support Group Facilitators to lead group discussions and provide emotional support. Volunteers will facilitate meetings, encourage dialogue, and work with mental health professionals. Ideal candidates should have lived experience with mood disorders and a passion for community support. This role offers training and opportunities to positively impact others' mental health journeys.

Benefits

Free peer facilitator training

Free Criminal Record Check

Qualifications

• Must have lived experience with a mood disorder to apply.
• Willingness to participate in volunteer training sessions.
• Passing a criminal record check is required.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate weekly support group meetings in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
• Encourage open dialogue among participants.
• Provide emotional support while maintaining boundaries.
• Address conflicts constructively within the group.
• Collaborate with mental health professionals for best practices.

Skills

Confidence when dealing with the public

Warmth and enthusiasm

Education

Peer facilitator training from MDABC

Job description

Peer Support Group Facilitators and Co‑Facilitator Volunteers

Ongoing.

As a Peer Support Group Facilitator, you will guide and support group discussions, providing a safe and empathetic environment for participants to share their experiences and receive mutual support. Your involvement will play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and promoting mental well‑being.

Major Responsibilities

• Facilitate weekly support group meetings, ensuring a respectful, warm, and inclusive atmosphere.
• Encourage open dialogue and active participation among group members.
• Provide emotional support and guidance while maintaining professional boundaries.
• Address any conflicts or issues that arise within the group in a constructive manner.
• Collaborate with our mental health professionals to ensure the group’s activities align with best practices.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to MDABC’s privacy policies.
• Complete any necessary training and attend regular supervision meetings.

Qualifications

• Confidence when dealing with the public in person.
• Warmth and enthusiasm.
• Passing a criminal record check (at MDABC expense).
• Desire to become very familiar with MDABC programs and services.

Training / Preparation

Must live anywhere in British Columbia to apply. Must have lived experience with a mood disorder to apply. All MDABC volunteers have opportunities to attend Volunteer Training Sessions. Self‑study on computer to learn about the organization’s programs and services.

Dates and Location

Various locations mainly within the Lower Mainland. Many Support Groups are held online over Zoom.

Volunteer Perks

We offer free peer facilitator training and a free Criminal Record Check. Volunteer for one year, shadow a current MDABC peer group for at least 4 sessions. Must live in British Columbia, have lived experience with a mood disorder to apply.

Certification or Education Required

Must receive free training from MDABC for peer facilitating.

Why should you volunteer for this opportunity?

Volunteering as a Peer Facilitator at MDABC lets you turn lived experience into meaningful support for others. You help create safe spaces where people feel understood, connected, and less alone. It’s a chance to give back, build skills, grow personally, and be part of a caring community. Your story and compassion can make a real difference in someone’s mental health journey.