CAS Volunteer
CPP-D Application Support Program
Virtual
The CPP-D Application Support program aims to help individuals with MS who are applying for the Canada Pension Plan disability (CPP-D) benefit to learn more about eligibility for the benefit and successfully complete and submit their application. In too many cases, individuals are denied benefits due to providing insufficient information and examples clearly demonstrating how their MS symptoms impede their ability to work.
The role you will play
As a CAS Volunteer, you will help applicants document their MS symptoms and functional limitations to help them complete their application for (CPP-D) by conducting interviews over the phone or via Zoom. During these interviews and their volunteer role, volunteers are expected to:
- Take clear, detailed notes in the applicant’s own voice
- Organize and format the information to answer relevant questions from the disability application form in order to demonstrate how the applicant meets the benefit’s eligibility criteria
- Communicate clearly with the program lead, applicants, and fellow volunteers regarding interview appointments and the development of documents for applications
- Volunteers often work in pairs to assist a single applicant
* Please note that if successful, this position will require the completion of a criminal background check. This requires volunteers to be 18 years of age or older.
What you will bring
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality
- Detail-oriented
- High level of reliability and responsibility
- Passion for supporting the MS Community
- Self-motivated and reliable; able to fulfill duties on time
- Mature and sensitive: able to speak with applicants about emotional and personal topics related to their disease and symptoms
- Access to e-mail and ability to use Microsoft Word & Zoom (access to a phone and stable reception/internet)
- Fluency in French (both written and spoken) is an asset
- Knowledge of MS, chronic illness, or disability and of disability benefit programs such as CPP-D are an asset, but not required
What you will gain
- Gain valuable experience and skills by supporting the organization of a well-recognized program while working with experienced organizing team members and comprehensive resources
- Training and experience in individual interview techniques
- Contribute your time to an important cause and see your impact on the organization
- Build a strong network and connect with the MS community
- Obtain a reference letter upon request
Support & Resources
- Training on a variety of topics, such as information about MS Canada, the CPP-D application, confidentiality, boundary-setting, and communication
- Practical training and ongoing support provided by the Program Lead
- Additional support from Volunteer Engagement and Experience teams
- Access to additional training and webinars throughout the year, when available
Commitment
- Agree to a one-year volunteer commitment once onboarded and trained
- Online training modules to be completed before start date (4.5 hours)
- Volunteers can take on applicants as their availability allows and depending on CAS’s caseload from month to month
- The time commitment to assist one applicant varies from 5 to 10+ hours, depending on the applicant’s needs. Assistance includes 2 to 4 telephone interviews and time between calls working on the document.
- Appointments with applicants can be scheduled based on the availability of the volunteers and the applicant
- Adhere to all MS Canada policies and procedures
MS Canada is dedicated to encouraging a supportive and inclusive culture where people from all backgrounds can thrive.
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