Information and Referral (I&R) Receptionist- Call for volunteers

About the opportunity

411 is a non-profit, community-oriented center, committed to enhancing the quality of life for older adults in the Lower Mainland. Our information and referral services program ensures that older adults are well-informed about the benefits and support available to them, and provide referrals to community and government agencies, as needed.

it is a great way to develop and maintain your skills, and use your experience to help others. You will be working with motivated people, learning about our work, and getting unique insights into the non-profit sector. Volunteering is a great way to build connections, gain valuable skills in the workplace, and help build a brighter future for older adults.

We ask you to:

• Have a warm, calm, and friendly manner, that reflects the 411 ethos
• Have a positive approach to the organization and volunteering
• Be happy to undertake any training if necessary

Responsibilities:

• Uphold 411’s policies and organizational values
• Be familiar with the I&R program
• Be familiar with the contents of the I&R Reception Manual. Follow the duties and procedures outlined
• Greet visitors and ensure they get the help they require in a timely manner.
• Answer the phone. Make appointments for clients, and take/record messages as needed
• Check voicemail and record the message in the log book
• Check-in clients for their appointments and directing them to the waiting area
• Give friendly reminder calls to clients for their appointments
• Model and maintain healthy boundaries
• Help staff with small administration tasks, when requested

Time of Commitment:

• A commitment of 4 hours per week is required (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)

Qualifications:

• Must be 19 years of age or older, but preference given to those who are 55+ years old
• Willing to undergo the application and volunteer screening process
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Calm and able to prioritize when faced with multiple demands at once
• Comfortable or willing to learn to use computers, adaptive technologies, and basic office equipment, such as a photocopier
• Familiar with or willingness to learn basic Microsoft Office, such as MS Word and Excel

Benefits:

• The opportunity to directly help and support clients, volunteers, and staff
• The opportunity to use existing skills and gain new ones
• The opportunity to access 411 programs, workshops, and events, such as holiday parties, volunteer appreciation lunch, etc.
• Free refreshments while on duty
• Meet new people and feel more connected to your community
• Be part of a supportive and positive volunteering environment
• Provide reference letter(s) upon request

Staff Support and Communication:

• I&R Reception Volunteers have access to ongoing staff support and resources throughout their volunteer term
• I&R volunteers will report to Senior Services Manager and they will be available to problem-solve and share ideas around any challenges volunteers may experience
• Information sharing about opportunities, volunteer workshops and events are sent out by email, with hard copies posted on the bulletin board

We foster a safe environment and open communication to create a positive volunteer experience

To apply for the position, e mail to Hannah: communityresearcher@411seniors.bc.ca