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
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.
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
