Help Others. Build Community. Make a Difference.
Many of our self-management programs are powered by Peer Leaders - caring volunteers who guide, support, and encourage participants. Many of our leaders live with chronic conditions themselves, and all bring compassion, understanding, and a desire to help others thrive.
If you're looking for a meaningful way to give back, grow your skills, and connect with your community... you're in the right place.
Who Can Be a Peer Leader?
Peer Leaders are adults (19+) who have previously attended a program with us and want to support others on their wellness journey.
You might be a great fit if you are:
- A person living with a chronic health condition
- A caregiver or family member
- A health professional
- An educator or community volunteer
- Anyone who is passionate about helping others manage their health and well-being
If you care about people and want to make a positive impact, we would love to hear from you.
What Makes a Great Peer Leader?
- Open-minded and non-judgemental
- Respectful, reliable, and trustworthy
- Committed to helping others succeed
- Willing to listen and learn new skills
- Comfortable working as part of a team
- A postive role model who understands the challenges of living with an ongoing health condition
If this sounds like you, you'll fit right in.
What You'll Gain as a Volunteer Leader
- Develop facilitation and communication skills
- Learn helpful tools and strategies you can also use in your own life
- Connect with others, build community, and reduce isolation
- Experience the joy of sessing people grow and make meaningful changes
- Make a direct, positive difference in the lives of people living with health challenges
Most of all, you become part of a supportive, encouraging team.
Your Committment as a Leader
To ensure the best experience for participants, Peer Leaders agree to:
- Complete all required leader training and refreshers
- Co-facilitate 1-2 programs per year
- Complete all required forms, policies and a police record check
We support you every step of the way.
*Please note: onboarding can take up to several months
What's Involved in the Training?
We provide everything you need to feel confident and prepared.
- Training varies based on the program you are interested in, some are self-study modules and others are more intensive over 2-4 days
- You'll learn facilitation skills, group management, and progam content
- You'll be asked to deliver your first workshop within 6 months of training to keep your skills fresh
You'll never be on your own - we promise!
You're Part of a Team
All workshops are co-facilitated by two Peer Leaders. New leaders are always paired with an experienced partner until they feel comfortable.
Our Waterloo Wellington Self-Management team manages:
- Participant registrations
- All program materials
- Evaluation forms and administrative tasks
Your job is to show up, support the group, and bring your heart.
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Ready to Make a Difference?
Ready to Make a Difference?If becoming a Peer Leader sounds exciting to you, we'd love to meet you!
Fill out the expression of interest form below, and a member of our team will contact you with next steps.