MATES Peer Support Volunteer (Winter 2024)

Description: UW MATES Peer Support Volunteers provide emotional and social support services to students who are experiencing social difficulties, low level mental health difficulties, and problems transitioning into university/life in Canada. A Peer Support Volunteer assists students in recognizing their own strengths and resources and in seeking their own solutions while connecting them to other helpful campus and community resources. A UW MATES Peer Support Volunteer must demonstrate compassion, authenticity and a non-judgmental attitude, while adhering to the rules of confidentiality. For the Fall 2022 term our volunteers will mainly be conducting appointments in-person with some online appointments (if restrictions permit).

Requirements for role  
– Passion for mental health awareness, reducing stigma for mental illness and a strong proponent of peer support
– Hold consistent weekly hours (2-3hrs per week), plus additional 2 event hours over the term (if applicable)
– Must be in at least your 2A term
– A commitment to the program for at least two academic terms is an asset
– Experience being a Peer Support Volunteer with MATES or other similar programs is an asset
– Demonstrated ability to succeed academically while maintaining other commitments
– Able to work collaboratively and independently in a team environment
– Previous training in Mental Health First Aid, SafeTALK, UWaterloo Student Leadership Training, Foundational Training for Peer Leaders or other similar training is an asset