Beaumont Children’s award-winning Parenting Program gives
experienced parents the chance to support and educate new parents. With
earlier discharges, limited family support and the stresses of new
parenthood, many first-time parents appreciate individual and group
support in caring for their newborn. Ninety-eight percent of
participants say they are “very satisfied” with the services they
received through the Parenting Program.
The program is made possible through the support of our parent
volunteers, who help first-time parents adjust to the changes a new baby
makes in their lives.
Program volunteers enjoy their roles in:
- building the confidence of new parents
- turning a difficult breastfeeding experience into a positive one
- making a difference in helping families through a difficult time
- forming new, long-lasting friendships
- using the support and resources provided to volunteers
- being part of a professionally run endeavor
Volunteer Opportunities and Commitments
If you are a compassionate parent, a good listener, and want to make a
difference in your community, we welcome your registration to become a
parent volunteer. Here are some of the activities in which volunteers
participate:
- hospital visitor – introduce the Parenting Program to new families
- individual family support – contact families weekly by phone or
e-mail from the convenience of your home. This requires about 6–10 hours
per month
- breastfeeding support caller – talk to new mothers by phone during
the first month after the baby’s birth. Volunteers support a minimum of
three families at a time and serve 6–8 hours per month
- parent group leaders – lead a group for parents with babies 3 to 5
months old. Volunteers prepare for and facilitate up to 12 meetings in
community centers or parents’ homes. Meetings are held every other week.
The commitment is 8–10 hours a month
- group speaker – present early childhood and parenting topics to
parent groups. Effective group management and communication skills are
necessary. Speakers present two or three times per month, for a total
time of six to 12 hours. Ability to drive to community sites is
required
- NICU – contact families as needed, with
hospital and home visits as requested. Experience with a NICU child is
essential
All potential volunteers must undergo a detailed interview process
and complete a program orientation. Training sessions are offered
throughout the year. Volunteers must also attend two additional training
programs each year.