We are a volunteer-powered organization. We rely on volunteers to help in the governance of our board, advocating for patients, and supporting our mission.
Please see our open positions below and apply using the Microsoft Form at the bottom of this page!
Volunteers are the heart and soul of Open Arms Patient Advocacy Society!
Our volunteers have the opportunity to work in a variety of areas:
Join our Board of Directors
There are a variety of positions on the Board that manage and implement the OA’s mission. Our Board of Directors create significant impact by governing the long-term strategy of the organization.
Become an Advocate
Advocates work closely with individuals who are experiencing difficulties with their health care. It is very fulfilling to guide patients in times of need. We provide advocacy training to volunteers and support their efforts.
Volunteer at our Events
We hold fundraising events throughout the year. Event volunteers allow us to seamlessly host these events to meet our organization objectives.
Open Arms Patient Advocacy Society requires at least a one to two year commitment depending on the role. The amount of time you give is entirely dependent on your desire to make a difference; this may be a few hours a week, fortnight, or month! However, we expect all volunteers to be able to commit to a minimum of 5-10 hours per month to the Society.
Learn about the volunteer roles we’re looking for below, and apply using the form at the bottom of this page.
CURRENT OPENINGS
Advocate *Edmonton Only*
Role and Responsibilities: Advocates are the heart and soul of Open Arms. The role of an advocate is to work with clients to achieve their desired goals, which will look different depending on the individual client’s needs. Advocates typically have at least 3 clients at a time, but the workload may vary depending on how many cases the organization receives each month. Advocates are also responsible for providing a written update to the Advocacy Chairs each month, prior to the monthly advocacy meeting.
Some of the duties of an advocate may include:
- Guiding clients on how to obtain any necessary medical records, information, or documentation.
- Providing resources and programs to clients to meet their goals.
- Attending medical appointments with the client (depending on scheduling; we understand this is a volunteer position!)
- Assisting the client in taking notes, drafting questions, or sending emails to healthcare professionals.
- Facilitating open and respectful communication between clients and their healthcare providers.
- Supporting the client in becoming their own advocate and having a voice.
- Charting all interactions in SharePoint between the advocate, client and healthcare professionals.
- Attending all training sessions and workshops to improve skills as an advocate.
Fundraising Director
Role and Responsibilities:
- Seek, plan, and initiate fundraising opportunities to support the Society in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
- Collaborate with the Board Chair and Treasurer to seek granting opportunities for the Society and assist in grant writing.
- Support the promotion of Society Memberships, Sponsorships, and Partnerships with the Marketing & Outreach Team.
- Develop relationships with major donors, identify new potential major donors and nurture relationships.
- Lead fundraising projects, such as the annual silent auction, and manage volunteers for fundraising projects.
Volunteer Application Form
“The ultimate expression of generosity is not in giving of what you have, but in giving of who you are.”
― Johnnetta B. Cole