PCA Help Yourself To Health

The Help Yourself To Health workshop is facilitated by two trained volunteer lay leaders with health problems of their own. The workshops are held once a week, for 2 1/2 hours over a 6-week period. They are highly interactive, focusing on building skills, sharing experiences, instilling confidence, and providing support.

Qualifications to be a lay leader:

• Must be literate and able to follow a detailed, scripted manual.

• Must have experience and be comfortable with talking before groups.

• Motivation to lead should come from wanting to serve others, and not to earn money.

• Have at least one chronic health condition.

 Frequently asked questions:

Q. Who is a lay leader?

A.  A volunteer with at least one chronic condition or who cares for someone with a chronic condition. No health profession experience is required.  Lay Leaders are able to read and follow a scripted leader's manual exactly. Lay Leaders must attend a 5-day training session to become trained in how to deliver the workshop. Lay Leaders must be willing to co-facilitate at least four workshops per year.

Q. How many people will attend the workshop?

A .  The program works best with 16-20 people. No more than 20 people maximum.

Q. Will I be compensated for volunteering as a lay leader?

A .   Some sites may or may not offer a stipend for volunteers who deliver the program.

Q. Is transportation provided?

A .    Transportation is not provided. Volunteers are expected to travel to and from program sites on their own.

Q. What is a "zero" session?

A .    A "zero" session occurs prior to the first session of the 6-week, Help Yourself to Health workshop. It is an introduction and orientation to the workshop.

Q. How will I be notified and scheduled to facilitate a workshop?

A .    You will be contacted by PCA staff or by a collaborating organization when your services are needed.  Once confirmed, a letter with instructions will follow.