Become a Neuro-Oncology Peer Support Volunteer

Have you been navigating life with a brain tumor for at least a year? If so, we invite you to consider joining our Thrivers’ community as a peer support volunteer!

Over the course of your experience, you have likely learned a great deal along the way, perhaps more than you realize. You may have discovered ways of coping, adapting, asking for support, managing uncertainty, or simply taking things one day at a time. These hard-earned insights and lived experiences can be a meaningful source of support and encouragement to someone who is newly diagnosed or feeling alone on this path. 

You do not need to have all the answers or feel that you have mastered this experience to make a difference. Simply sharing what you have learned, listening with understanding, and offering companionship from the perspective of someone who has traveled a similar path can provide a valuable sense of connection, hope, and encouragement to others.

As a Thriver, you’ll not only help lessen the isolation and fear that others may experience, but you’ll also become part of a supportive community, with access to ongoing support and personal development tools to help you grow in your role and in your own life.

We ask that our volunteers be:

• A UCSF Neuro-Oncology patient
• At least one year post diagnosis
• Currently living with stable primary brain cancer (note: recurrence does not discharge you from the volunteer role)
• Able to handle emotional conversations or refer back to the program staff when necessary
• Able to listen empathically and keep the focus on supporting the other person
• Able to keep your match’s health information confidential

To become a UCSF Neuro-Oncology Peer Support Volunteer one must:

1. Attend a 2-hour online training (held yearly in October)
2. Complete an online application and sign a volunteer and confidentiality agreement

Once trained as a volunteer you will then be invited to attend a weekly Thrivers group starting in January where you will continue to learn and deepen your skills with other trained volunteers. This weekly meeting is entirely optional - join whenever it works for you.

If you are interested in becoming a Peer Support Volunteer, please send an email to Naomi.Hoffer@ucsf.edu and sign up for the training session here.