Loss of a Spouse Support Group Leader

Program Description:

• Facilitate a monthly support group for adults aged 50 and older who have experienced the loss of a spouse.

Duties:

• To guide group discussions and encourage participation.
• Create a safe, welcoming space for participants to share their experiences and connect with others who are navigating a similar loss.
• To help ensure conversations remain supportive and respectful.
• Contact participants within 48 hours once Keen Center staff refer interested participants to volunteer.
• Maintain a roster of current group participants.
• Notify participants of cancellations or schedule changes.

Hours:

• One weekday per month for an hour and a half.

Skills, Abilities and Knowledge:

• Ability to communicate courteously and effectively with participants and staff.
• Ability to listen attentively and validate participants’ experiences.
• Demonstrate empathy and compassion toward participants.
• Remain calm and supportive when participants become emotional.
• Basic understanding of the grief and bereavement process.
• Fluency in another language is a plus but not required.

Requirements:

• Must conduct themselves in a responsible and caring manner and maintain strict confidentiality.
• Must be reliable, consistent, nonjudgemental, compassionate, patient, and respectful.
• Access to a cell phone. Checks email frequently.

Additional Requirements:

• Complete appropriate paperwork.
• Pass a background check, paid for by the City of Irvine.
• Abide by the City of Irvine’s Patron’s Code of Conduct and the Older Adult Services Code of Conduct.

Benefits:

After completing a minimum of 20 hours in a calendar year, volunteers will receive an invitation to our annual Volunteer Recognition event.