Location: Tauranga, New Zealand **Commitment: **Ongoing, Tuesdays 1.30pm - 3pm, rostering can be an option for multiple applicants

About the Role: Alzheimers Tauranga is seeking compassionate volunteers to assist with the COGS Café Group, a social and engaging support service specifically designed for individuals aged 50-65 living with Young Onset Dementia. This group provides a vital opportunity for early-onset dementia clients to connect, socialise, and engage in stimulating activities, while also offering respite for their family carers. As a volunteer, you will play a key role in facilitating group interactions, guiding activities, and supporting participants in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Key Responsibilities:

**Group Facilitation: **Work alongside other volunteers and a Team Leader to facilitate and support a small group of up to 8-10 people living with Young Onset Dementia. **Engaging Activities: **Assist in planning and leading activities designed to stimulate both cognitive function and socialisation. Activities may include light discussions on current events, opinion-based topics, games, arts, and crafts, or other appropriate group activities. Promoting Social Interaction: Help create a warm and supportive environment where participants feel comfortable sharing and engaging in meaningful conversations and connections. **Respite for Carers: **The COGS Café also serves as a much-needed break for family members and carers, knowing that their loved ones are participating in a structured and enjoyable program. **Encouragement & Support: **Provide emotional and social support to the group participants, encouraging their involvement and ensuring everyone feels included. Who We're Looking For:

**Empathetic & Understanding Individuals: **Volunteers should have a compassionate approach and an understanding of the challenges faced by people with early-onset dementia. Team Players: You’ll be working alongside a small team of volunteers and a Team Leader, so the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively is essential. **Creative & Engaging: **Volunteers should be able to come up with fun, engaging activities and be comfortable leading group discussions or games. **Age Requirement: **Due to the specific nature of this group, volunteers must be between the ages of 50-65. **Experience (Preferred, but not essential): **While experience with dementia or facilitating group activities is a plus, it is not a requirement. Full training and support will be provided. What You’ll Gain:

A rewarding opportunity to directly impact the lives of individuals with Young Onset Dementia, helping them maintain social connections and cognitive function. Experience in facilitating engaging group activities and supporting those living with dementia in a positive and fulfilling environment. Ongoing training and support from the Alzheimers Tauranga team to help you succeed in your volunteer role. If you’re aged between 50-65 and are looking for a meaningful and supportive volunteer role where you can make a real difference in the lives of individuals with early-onset dementia, we’d love to hear from you!

How to Apply: To apply, please visit the Alzheimers Tauranga website and head to 'get involved'.