CNIB – Canadian National Institute for the Blind (Seeking Vision Mate Volunteers in Vancouver!)

Organization Name: CNIB – Canadian National Institute for the Blind
Opportunity Title: Seeking Vision Mate Volunteers in Vancouver!
Category: Social and Community Service
Commitment: 6 months to 1 year, Ongoing Opportunity (> 1 year)
Start Date: December 12, 2023
End Date: December 31, 2024

Email: ben.finkelberg@cnib.ca
Website: http://www.cnib.ca
Details:

• Background/police check required
• Appropriate for volunteers aged between 18 and 55
• Appropriate for volunteers aged 55 and over
• Training or orientation required

Opportunity Description:

Make a difference in the lives of blind or partially sighted people in your community!

The Vision Mate program matches people who are blind or partially sighted with sighted volunteers who provide companionship and one-on-one assistance with everyday tasks and errands. Vision Mate volunteers can assist individuals with various activities including errands, going for walks, labelling and organizing household items, reading, or fun outings and recreational activities.

Matches are made with someone who lives close to your home, school or work. Visits are typically two hours a week in the person’s home or another suitable place at a mutually convenient time. We aim to match people for a minimum of six months, though there is no maximum time for a match to continue. Ideally, it will continue for years to come, as the Vision Mate relationship often transitions to friendship over time.

We are looking for volunteers with the following skills and attributes:

•      Trustworthy, patient, empathetic and friendly

•      Reliable, organized, and able to work with minimal supervision.

•      Excellent communication skills

CNIB provides orientation about our organization, the people we help, vision loss, as well as training specific to the position. A clear Police Record Check and two reference checks are required. Must be 18 or older.