Volunteer Roles

Begin a Friendship Journey

Compeer provides a non-clinical layer of support to youth, adults, older adults, veterans and postpartum women living with a mental health challenge. A variety of volunteer opportunities are available for individuals as well as groups.

You’ve gotten this far. That shows us that you just might be the right person that is fit to be a Compeer volunteer. Take a moment to see which volunteer opportunity is the right fit for you.

Interested in referring the youth, adult or older adult you are working with to the Compeer Program for a volunteer friend or mentor? Click on the referral link below and fill out the referral form for a Compeer friend.

Questions? Call (716) 883-3331 for more information or email us at staff@compeerbuffalo.org

Are you ready to start your volunteer journey? Please complete both steps linked below: volunteer application and volunteer paperwork. Once your application is received, we will contact you regarding next steps in the process.

Eligibility Requirements

Prospective Volunteer:

– Minimum age of 18.
– Complete a full background check (Criminal History Check- local police and fingerprint; Child Abuse Registry, National Sex Offender Registry) facilitated by Compeer.
– Complete an in person, phone, or virtual interview.
– Provide contact information for three individuals who will serve as a reference.
– Complete an in person volunteer applicant orientation.
– 1-to-1 Mentor requires a driver’s license and vehicle, as you often transport your friend.
– 1-to-1 Mentor requires a 1 year commitment.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities of Approved Volunteer

– Submit monthly updates to Compeer.
– Submit updated driver’s license and proof of auto
insurance.
– Complete the annual program survey.
– Have fun!

Responsibilities of Compeer

– Recruit, interview, screen and provide training to
volunteers before they are accepted into the program.
– Give ongoing support and training to all volunteers
matched with a client.
– Monitor the volunteer and client relationship via
phone/email and monthly update forms.
– Get to know the volunteer to present best match
options to applicants interested in working with a client.

Training Dates

Once your application is submitted, we will work with you to get registered for an orientation session. Applications must be received at least 2 business days prior to the scheduled orientation session.

One-to-One Friendship

Best for: Individual volunteers, Students
Clients served: Children, Adults, Older Adults, Veterans, Students

One-to-One Friendship volunteers assist someone living with a mental health diagnosis by spending approximately 4 hours with them per month. Volunteers are positive role models who help raise self-esteem, increase social and communication skills, build trust, increase a sense of belonging, and encourage independence for their Compeer friend. After completing the application process, volunteers are presented with information about potential matches based on their areas of interest and the needs of our clients.

Outreach Volunteer

Best for: Individual volunteers

Outreach Team members play a crucial role in expanding our reach and impact within communities across Erie County. As an Outreach Team member, you will be the face of Compeer, representing Compeer at a variety of community events such as wellness fairs, community resource fairs, career fairs, and speaking directly with members of the community to encourage them to get involved with our organization. Outreach Team volunteers support Compeer by spreading awareness of our programs and volunteer opportunities, allowing interested individuals to be able to seek a Friend or to be a Friend to an individual navigating mental health challenges. Outreach Team members attend events as needed.

Not sure what role best suits you? Contact our volunteer department at volunteer@compeerbuffalo.org or 716-883-3331 X 310 to learn more.

Phone Buddies

Best for: Individual volunteers
Clients served: Adults, Older Adults

Phone Buddy volunteers provide weekly support over the phone to an adult or older adult client who is waiting for a One-to-One Friendship volunteer. Volunteers are positive role models who help raise self-esteem, increase communication skills, build trust, increase a sense of belonging, and encourage independence for their Compeer friend. After completing the application process, volunteers are presented with information about potential phone buddy matches based upon their areas of interest and the needs of our clients.

Social Activity Volunteers

Best for: Individual or Group volunteers
Clients served: Children, Adults, Older Adults, Veterans

Social Activities are offered to both matched friends and clients waiting to be matched. These free group activities provide opportunities to get to know one another, reduce isolation, and improve socialization. Activities range from crafts to holiday parties to nature walks, and we are always adding more! Activity volunteers support group activities by hosting or supporting activities virtually or in person in the community. After completing the application process, volunteers work with Compeer staff to identify opportunities that meet their interests.

Volunteer Areas

Youth

https://mentors.mentorcore.com/compeer/index.php?section=application&action=new&fwID=1638

Adult

https://mentors.mentorcore.com/compeer/index.php?section=application&action=new&fwID=1543

Older Adult

https://mentors.mentorcore.com/compeer/index.php?section=application&action=new&fwID=1545

Veterans

https://mentors.mentorcore.com/compeer/index.php?section=application&action=new&fwID=1546

Postpartum Women

https://mentors.mentorcore.com/compeer/index.php?section=application&action=new&fwID=2419

To learn more or discuss an opportunity that interests you, contact Lisa Johnson, Director of Volunteer Engagement at lisa@compeerbuffalo.org or 716-883-3331.

A friend is someone who understands your past, believes in your future, and accepts you just the way you are.

Bernard Meltzer