CONNECTIONS

An old dream of many members of Can-Voice--to create a Buddy System--has become a reality. Can-Voice has partnered with UWO, RMHC London to create a matching system between those who are newly discharged from hospital (called a Buddy) and consumer/survivors who are living successfully in the community (called Peer Volunteers).

The goal of this Buddy System (called Connections) is to partner someone who has experience and expertise in living successfully in the community with someone who might need some assistance in figuring out how to do banking, or laundry, buy groceries or decide which bus to take. It is also an opportunity for everyone involved to meet new people. The purpose of Connections is mutual support, friendship and fun.

The Peer Volunteers are requested to spend at least one hour per week with their Buddy doing things together in the community. It is hoped that a friendship will develop and the Peer volunteer and the Buddy will want to spend more time together. Peer Volunteers are asked to commit to this program for one year.

Can-Voice will provide training for the Peer Volunteers. To find out how to be a peer Volunteer, call and leave a message for our Volunteer Co-Ordinator.

After taking the training and being matched with a "Buddy", the Peer Volunteers will meet once a month at Can-voice for discussions about being a Peer Volunteer. If any concerns or difficulties arise, a Can-Voice staff will be available to discuss the problem.

4 times a year, there will be a planned activity at Can-Voice for all the participants. A summer barbecue, a fall bus trip, a Christmas party, and a spring carnival are some ideas of events Can-Voice might sponsor. Of course these events would only be open to those who participate at Can-Voice, contributing in some way.

Can-Voice is working on raising funds to cover awards for the participants. Everything from movie passes to pins to T-shirts to mug's have been suggested as a suitable award for participating in Connections. It sounds like it will be a lot of fun!

FACTS ABOUT CONNECTIONS

Sponsor in London: Can-Voice

What is expected?: be a friend to someone newly discharged from hospital

Who qualifies?: anyone who is a consumer/survivor and is living successfully in the community

Why should I do it?: make new friends, free stuff, parties & trips, FUN!!

How do I apply?: Phone Can-voice. 434-8303 ext. 3 and leave a message for Our Volunteer Co-Ordinator.

What will happen?: Our Volunteer Co-Ordinator will call you and ask you to come for an orientation. You will need to take training before you can be matched with someone being released from hospital.

Will this cost a lot?: No. We fund all aspects of Connections. The training, the meetings and the parties are free. Your cost of weekly get togethers with your "buddy" will be up to you, but can be as cheap as a walk together. We hope to find lots of free things to give to participants!

We can still use lots more volunteers for this program, please call.