Volunteers are an essential part of our team here at Geras. Our volunteers make a tremendous difference in the lives of older adults in our community, retirement homes and long-term care. Before applying, please read the information on this page to determine if a volunteer position with our research centre is the right fit for you.
Before applying, please read the information on this page to determine if a volunteer position with our research centre is the right fit for you.
Things to consider before applying:
- Due to the nature of the older adult population that typically participate in our research studies; if you do not feel comfortable interacting with persons between the ages of 50+, this may not be the best position for you.
- We rely on our volunteers to complete the tasks they commit to and ask that you please consider carefully if you will have the time to volunteer the hours you will commit to.
Volunteer Benefits
Our training and volunteer experience will:
- Improve your active listening and communication skills.
- Increase your knowledge of the older adult population within the community, retirement, and long-term care homes.
- Develop and improve skills useful in personal and professional situations.
- Provide you with valuable work experience and a compelling reference (letter of reference can be requested upon completion of 150 volunteer hours – reference must be requested in 2-weeks advance of required date).
Volunteer Responsibilities
As a Geras Centre Research Volunteer, you may have the opportunity to, among other things:
- Conduct literature reviews
- Assist in data collection and conduct data entry
- Assist in Research Ethics Submission
- Prepare materials for submission to granting agencies and foundations
- Recruit and/or interview subjects
- Attend project meetings and area seminars as necessary
- Prepare meeting agendas and minutes
- Prepare other articles, reports, and presentations
- Assist with research administrative tasks (e.g. compiling study packages, database prep)
Volunteer Qualifications
You will need to meet these qualifications to become a volunteer:
- Attend any required training session (as needed dependent upon the research study). Training dates may be flexible to work around the volunteers schedule but will remain within the times of Monday to Friday 8:30am-4pm.
- Obtaining a clear Police Vulnerable Sector Check (for in-person volunteering only).
- Obtaining Health Clearance (for online and in-person volunteering). Volunteer will be required to complete a Pre-Immunization Report and provide a copy of their COVID-19 vaccinations.
- Complete required training (separate from study-specific training session).
- A volunteer must be: Respectful, Patient, Empathetic, Good listener/communicator, Proficient in English (verbal and written)
Onboarding
New volunteers will be onboarded to start in the months of January, May, and September each year, with additional onboarding times available as needed.
Volunteer opportunities may vary based on the research studies being conducted at the Geras Centre at a specified time. We are currently accepting volunteer applications for September 2024.
Volunteer Training Sessions: Prior to beginning volunteering on a research study, you will attend a training session with the study lead to learn more about the roles and responsibilities you will be asked to take on.
How to Apply
Send an email to Volunteer Coordinator Lauren Kane kanela@hhsc.ca and include the following information
- Full name.
- Copy of your resume/CV.
- Copy of your unofficial transcript.
- Information regarding your interests in volunteering with the Geras Centre.
- When you are available to start volunteering.
- If you are looking for an in-person, online or hybrid volunteer position