Alzheimer's Association Seeking Staying-Connected Group Facilitator

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Description: This 4-week group is based on an evidence-based program developed by the University of Washington. The program engages individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and their caregivers by facilitating social support and engagement through positive, pleasant activities. The program is being introduced by the Alzheimer’s Association Oregon Chapter under a three-year grant from the federal Administration for Community Living, with a goal of continuing the program once the grant ends.

Volunteer facilitators will implement the program’s curriculum and lead group discussion. The ideal volunteer must be patient, highly social, and possess a genuine interest in working with persons with the disease.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Comfort working with persons with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers (or willingness to learn)
• Experience facilitating small group discussions with older adults
• Experience with older adults with cognitive impairment
• Commitment to adhering to an evidence-based curriculum
• Able to work collaboratively with the Alzheimer’s Association in promoting programs
• Able to travel to and from class reliably and consistently
• Commitment to complete weekly attendance and progress records and turn in required program reporting information at the completion of each workshop, and to participate in quarterly one-hour calls to discuss successes and challenges, to help track impact and effectiveness of this program in Oregon
• Degree in the behavioral science or related area (eg. psychology, social work, nursing, health promotion, education) preferred

Time Commitment:

• A half-day initial in-person training at the Alzheimer's Association office in Portland, OR.
• Quarterly one-hour phone calls with other program leaders
• 2.5 hours per week/4-week series
• One year commitment with the Association and facilitating at least 4 Staying Connected workshops
• Weekday daytime and/or weekend availability to facilitate groups

Location: Facilitation opportunities in Portland Metropolitan Area, Washington County, Clackamas County, Columbia County, and Hood River County

Training: The half-day facilitator training will include a familiarization with early-stage social engagement curriculum, information about the Alzheimer’s Association mission and services, and an overview of Alzheimer’s disease and its impact on individuals and families.