YouQuest (Participant Companion)

• Background/police check required
• Appropriate for volunteers aged between 18 and 55
• Appropriate for volunteers aged 55 and over

What is YouQuest? YouQuest is a community for people with young-onset dementia (diagnosed under 65 years) and their families. Our purpose is to promote health and well-being by ensuring access to recreation therapy, counselling, and peer support. YouQuest offers a place to belong. It is a reliable support network for caregivers, providing them with a break from caring responsibilities. A registered charity, YouQuest organizes activities for people in this younger population group. Our recreation therapy staff and volunteers provide functional support to help participants achieve well-being, learn new skills, and maintain their independence. Who are the YouQuest Participants? YouQuest is designed to appeal to younger people with dementia who want to be active and social in a community. Inclusion criteria includes: • Diagnosis of dementia and/or symptoms prior to 65 • Safe in an unsecured environment • Self-ambulatory and medically stable • Independent with meals and medication • Willing and able to participate safely in individual and group recreation activities What’s a Typical Day at YouQuest? • Interacting with participants and staff as part of our team • Actively participating in recreation activities • Anticipating participant needs and learning their life stories • Support participant independence and decision-making abilities Service days: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm Volunteer Shifts: 3+ hours morning, afternoon, or full day Schedule: Weekly, monthly (your choice!) Location: Calgary Jewish Community Centre Nutrition: Snacks/Lunch provided; enjoyed with participants Is YouQuest a Fit for You? Do you… • Have a positive, enthusiastic attitude? • Value supporting participant’s independence? • Communicate easily in a calm, reliable and compassionate manner? • Have a desire to learn/implement strategies that support participants to express themselves? • ‘Go with the flow’ for flexible and proactive support of participants? • Respect the privacy and confidentiality of YouQuest participants and families?