The Friendly Caller volunteer plays an essential role in reducing social isolation among Edmonton Meals on Wheels (EMOW) clients.

The Friendly Caller volunteer plays an essential role in reducing social isolation among Edmonton Meals on Wheels (EMOW) clients. Volunteers provide meaningful connections through regular phone calls, offering companionship and identifying potential concerns or additional needs. This role is vital in supporting seniors and individuals facing isolation while ensuring they remain engaged and connected to the community. Responsibilities 1. Conduct regular phone calls to clients who have opted into the Friendly Caller program. 2. Maintain detailed notes on client conversations to ensure continuity between calls (e.g., topics to avoid, areas of interest). 3. Identify and report client concerns regarding services, including meal preferences or challenges (e.g., too much or too little food). 4. Recognize additional service needs clients may have (e.g., housekeeping, yard work, snow removal) needs and relay them to EMOW staff. 5. Report any urgent concerns to EMOW staff for follow-up. 6. Respect client confidentiality and operate within EMOW policies and guidelines. Qualifications and Education Requirements • Must be at least 18 years of age. • Strong verbal communication and active listening skills. • Comfortable engaging in friendly and empathetic conversations. • Ability to maintain confidentiality and respect client boundaries. • Basic note-taking skills to document key details from calls. • Fluent in spoken English (additional languages are an asset). • Successfully pass a criminal record check with a vulnerable sector screening. Position Requirements • Ability to engage in meaningful conversation while respecting personal boundaries. • Comfortable discussing various topics in a non-judgmental manner. • Ability to recognize and report concerns about client well-being. • Willingness to accept guidance and feedback from EMOW staff. Decisions & Accountability • Volunteers must commit to a minimum of six (6) months. • Regular participation in the program with a consistent call schedule. • Volunteers must notify the office as soon as possible if unable to complete a scheduled call. Work Environment & Schedule • Calls are made from the volunteer’s home at scheduled times. • Calls must take place during EMOW operational hours to ensure staff can provide support in case of emergencies. • Flexible scheduling based on volunteer availability and client preferences. • This role does not involve in-person visits. Additional Notes • The Friendly Caller Program is not a crisis or mental health service. Volunteers are not trained healthcare professionals. • Clients can opt in or out at any time; participation is voluntary.