Art Program Facilitator

ABOUT HOPESPRING CANCER SUPPORT CENTRE

HopeSpring is a dynamic non-profit organization dedicated to providing emotional, physical, and psychological support to individuals and families affected by cancer. We aim to foster a community of hope, resilience, and empowerment through various programs and services.

Our motto, "Every cancer, for every stage, for everyone," reflects our commitment to providing support and care to the cancer community at any stage of their journey, for any type of cancer, and for anyone affected by cancer.

POSITION SUMMARY: 

HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre seeks an empathetic and creative individual to join our team as an Art Program Facilitator. The facilitator will lead art workshops designed to provide a meaningful and supportive artistic experience for participants affected by cancer, either through their own journey or that of a loved one. These workshops cater to a diverse group of participants, including patients, survivors, and family members, and are held primarily online to accommodate long-distance members and those who may be unable to travel due to health reasons. The ideal candidate will have a passion for art, excellent communication skills, and a strong commitment to the well-being of participants.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Workshop Facilitation:

• Plan and lead a minimum of one art class per month (90 minutes to 2 hours).
• Use non-toxic art mediums such as watercolours, oil pastels, pencils, charcoal, crayons, markers, pencil crayons, and collage paper.
• Create and share lesson plans that are engaging, rewarding, and accessible to participants of varying ages, skill levels, and stages of treatment/recovery.
• Prepare and distribute teaching notes and sample assignments.

1. Preparation and Planning:

• Research and develop new content for each class, utilizing resources such as art therapy books, online videos, and personal creativity.
• Maintain a notebook of class ideas and prep work for future reference.
• Communicate with participants 3 to 4 days prior to each workshop, providing information on needed supplies and any special instructions.
• Ensure all materials and supplies are prepared in advance, coordinating with participants for pick-up or delivery of art kits.

1. Technology and Setup:

• Log into Zoom sessions 20 minutes prior to class start time to test equipment and setup.
• Use two devices for recording: a laptop and a phone (for overhead views of the working area).
• Ensure clear and well-lit visual demonstrations and good sound quality.

1. Participant Engagement and Support:

• Create a supportive and inclusive environment where participants feel comfortable sharing their work and expressing emotions.
• Maintain a private Facebook group for participants to share their work, access recorded sessions, and receive updates.
• Address any technical or personal issues promptly and respectfully during workshops.

1. Post-Class Follow-Up:

• Post class recordings and supplementary materials in the Facebook group within 24 hours.
• Remain available for any private emails or texts from participants after class.
• Provide ongoing support and communication to new participants, including phone calls to explain workshop processes and assist with art kit pick-up.

IDEAL CANDIDATE:

• Comfortable and Knowledgeable: Uses non-toxic art mediums and understands the importance of creating a safe and healthy environment.
• Empathetic and Patient: Balances empathy and kindness with assertiveness, showing understanding towards participants' varying needs.
• Organized and Prepared: Consistently plans ahead, communicates clearly, and ensures all materials and instructions are prepared in advance.
• Technologically Proficient: Comfortable using Zoom, managing recordings, and posting content online.
• Reliable and Trustworthy: Builds trust by being reliable, consistent, and respectful in all interactions.
• Creative and Adaptable: Enjoys researching new ideas and content, and can easily adapt to changing circumstances and participant needs.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Educational Background: Degree or certification in Art, Art Therapy, Fine Arts, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience: Prior experience facilitating art classes, workshops, or therapy sessions, especially with diverse age groups and abilities.
• Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage and inspire participants.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in using online platforms like Zoom for virtual classes and managing digital content on social media.
• Organizational Skills: Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to plan ahead, manage time effectively, and ensure all materials and instructions are prepared in advance.
• Commitment: A strong dedication to the mission and values of HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre, with a willingness to commit to the program long-term.

BENEFITS:

• Volunteer Community: Become part of a passionate and dedicated volunteer community at HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre, with opportunities to participate in social and networking events.
• Creative Freedom: The opportunity to design and implement your own art projects and workshops, allowing you to bring your unique vision to life.