Baycrest Buddies
The short answer
Baycrest Buddies pairs volunteers with a Baycrest resident or client for a long-term friendship. You connect by phone or video each week, offering companionship, conversation and a mental workout. Volunteers commit to at least six months.
How it works
You and your buddy get to know each other virtually. Together with our team, you shape discussion topics, activities, themes and even fundraising challenges. Bring your own interests and creativity. Make it fun.
You build a bond with your buddy and with fellow volunteers. You also gain new skills and community service hours.
What to expect
- An introductory call with your volunteer supervisor to learn about your buddy and book your first call.
- An introductory call with your buddy to start the relationship.
- A check-in with your volunteer supervisor.
- Weekly contact with your buddy at a day and time you both choose. Calls are usually by phone. Video works too if your buddy has a device and wants to try it.
- About once a month, a Zoom meetup with your volunteer peer group to share experiences and plan new ideas.
- Support from your volunteer supervisor whenever you need it.
How to apply
Onboarding helps us find the right match and gives you the tools to connect.
Apply online
Fill in the online volunteer application.
Attend orientation
Join a virtual orientation session.
Send your documents
Submit a reference form and other supporting documents.
Complete training
Finish the online training modules.
Interview
Complete an interview with our team.
All volunteers commit to at least six months, with the option to continue.
Become a Baycrest Buddy
In the words of our friends at Camp Manitou, "Double-blessed is the generation in which the young listen to the old."
