Resources

Different Jobs for Self Help Group Volunteers

A supportive group environment can offer great relief to people who are troubled by tinnitus. From a practical standpoint, though, a self-help group takes time and effort to facilitate. Group facilitators are encouraged to find volunteers to help with group tasks. The following are some suggested Self-Help Group "jobs" and associated tasks. Don't be limited by this list, however: wherever you need help to make your group successful, ask! Also, some groups hold elections to staff different positions. Decide with your group what works best, and be flexible as your group progresses—informal volunteer schedules might work in the beginning, but as your group grows, you may need a more formal leadership structure.

GROUP LEADER
Finds the meeting place
Plans the meeting's agenda
Coordinates guest speakers
Leads the discussion
Asks attendees to help out with group tasks
Encourages group members to become donors of the American Tinnitus Association
Communicates with ATA whenever questions or concerns arise
Sends ATA a letter, copy of the minutes, or newsletter to let us know how the meetings are progressing
Is the telephone or email contact for the group in the ATA Support Network listings.
Assists members in getting to know one another
Keeps the meeting focused
Fosters an atmosphere of trust and mutual support
Listens carefully and with sensitivity
Maintains an environment of safety for all members by an agreed-upon definition of confidentiality
Tolerates differences
Helps group members deal with conflicts as they arise
Does not dominate or intimidate or allow others to do so
Keeps the members pursuing a positive approach to their tinnitus

Group leaders are also encouraged to delegate above tasks when appropriate.

GREETER
Welcomes people at the door and helps them locate rest rooms, coat racks, and refreshments
Reminds people to sign the roster
Introduces attendees to one another

REFRESHMENT COORDINATOR
Organizes volunteer schedule for snacks
Makes reminder calls to snack volunteers before the meeting
Use group donations to purchase snacks—if the group decides to use funds in this way
Sets up refreshment area
Keeps necessary supplies on hand

SECRETARY
Takes notes during the meeting
Handles group mailings or emailings like meeting announcements or newsletters, if applicable
Writes or edits the group's newsletter

LIBRARIAN
Coordinates lending library of books, pamphlets, and audio and video tapes at the meetings
Discuss useful books, tapes, or articles at the meetings
Keeps track of items that are checked out; reminds borrowers to return materials

PUBLICITY COORDINATOR
Places group flyers on local community bulletin boards Designs the group's meeting notices
Sends press releases to the local paper, radio stations, or television stations

For more information please contact: Lisa Freeman, Manager of Member Services, 1–800-634-8978 Ext. 219 or lisa@ata.org