Grief and Bereavement Support Group Facilitator

An Alzheimer’s Association support group is an open gathering of people with common problems, needs and interests who come together to share their feelings, thoughts and experiences in a combined effort to better cope with and manage the shared problems of dementia in a safe environment. The goal of the Alzheimer’s Association support groups is to provide emotional, social and/or educational support to group members.

Qualifications of a Support Group Facilitator: Experience with dementia as a family member or health care professional preferred. Ability to be empathic and separate personal needs from group needs. Strong listening skills and effective communication skills. Ability to redirect and facilitate discussion as well as fulfill the duties and responsibilities as described in the Facilitator Agreement. Ability to create and maintain a safe environment where participants’ thoughts and feelings are valued and group members are treated with fairness, equity and respect. Commitment to promote the mission and services of the Association and willingness to act as an extension of the Association and to put other responsibilities and obligations aside when acting in this role.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Follow expectations and recommendations of the Caregiver Support Group Facilitator Manual, including participation in initial training, record keeping, and regular check ins with Association staff. Arrange for speakers/presenters for the group as needed. Encourage participants to provide assistance and emotional support to one another. Present pertinent Association materials and information to group members. Inform the Alzheimer’s Association in advance of any changes in group facilitators, time or location of group meetings.

Time commitment: 1.5 hours once per month

Training: Three hours of online training (videos), and two hours in person to shadow

Please contact Andie Shepard at anshepard@alz.org for any questions