Position Title: Volunteer, Disability Benefits Support

Responsible To: MDSC National Volunteer Coordinator

Summary:

The Mood Disorders Society of Canada (MDSC) is seeking compassionate volunteers to provide directional support to Canadians navigating the application process for disability benefits within their respective province. Volunteers will play a vital role in MDSC’s commitment to ensuring individuals living with mental health and/or physical disabilities receive the help they need to access essential financial support.

Volunteers will be part of MDSC’s new initiative aimed at helping individuals understand and complete their disability benefits applications, offering guidance, and administrative assistance as needed. Support will be offered in a safe, confidential, and trust-based environment, typically through phone call support.

This volunteer role is ideal for someone who is detail-oriented, patient, and eager to support vulnerable populations in Canada.

Location: This is a remote, home-based position.

Time Commitment: Minimum of six hours per month (flexible scheduling based on availability and client needs).

Duties:

• Provide assistance/guidance to individuals contacting MDSC for support with applying for disability benefits (including the Canada Disability Tax Credit CDTC, the Canada Disability Benefit CDB, provincial or territorial programs/resources).

• Build trust-based relationships with clients through consistent, professional communication.
• Offer guidance and emotional support throughout the application process.
• Help clients understand eligibility requirements, collect required documentation, and answer application form inquiries.
• Use basic tools (e.g., Google Forms) to document interactions and progress.
• Use cloud-based phone system (training will be provided)
• Attend MDSC volunteer and program-specific training, including disability-related workshops.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to privacy and ethical guidelines.

Qualifications include:

• Excellent verbal communication and active listening skills.

• Empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to help others.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to support individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Bilingualism is an asset
• Basic computer literacy (email, document editing, online forms) or willingness to learn.
• Good judgment and discretion with sensitive personal information.
• Willingness to commit to a one-year volunteer term.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Vulnerable Sector Check and two references required.

We welcome applicants from across all provinces and territories in Canada. Experience with disability benefits (personal or professional) is an asset but not required — training will be provided.