One-to-One Volunteer

For patients and families dealing with a cancer diagnosis, connecting with someone who has “been there” can be a great source of comfort. The One-to-One Program links individuals who have already experienced diagnosis and treatment with those who are facing it for the first time. One-to-One volunteers include cancer survivors, their family members and those at high risk for cancer. Volunteers talk to patients and families via telephone about the treatment experience, guide them through the hospital system, and discuss available resources.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

Volunteering at Dana-Farber is a rewarding and enriching experience. Dana-Farber staff, donors, and volunteers all work toward a common goal of defeating cancer. As a supplemental resource for patients and families, volunteers who work at Dana-Farber are closely linked to this mission, as are those who volunteer at events that raise essential funds to support it. Volunteers are committed and reliable people who make a very real difference, everywhere they work.

One-to-One volunteers provide support to patients and families via telephone contact. Telephone conversations should foster a meaningful interaction and connection without developing a prolonged or dependent relationship. The volunteer has a commitment to follow up as agreed in conversations with patients/families, report concerns to DFCI staff, and maintain confidentiality at all times . In-person and/or social meetings are outside the scope of the program’s guidelines. Attempts will be made to connect patients/families with volunteers according to the needs expressed by the caller.

Activities:

A peer mentor listens and can:

Discuss symptoms you have experienced

Talk about what to expect from surgery, transplant or chemotherapy

Identify supportive resources

Talk about issues you are facing as a patient in your age range

Address issues you may face caring for your loved one

Discuss issues unique to survivorship

Guide you in talking with your child about a diagnosis

Workplace issues - e.g., telling your boss

​ Requirements:

Applicant has relevant experience as a patient or family member/caregiver of a patient at Dana-Farber. One-to-One volunteers must be at least a year out of diagnosis . Participation in the One-to-One program also requires a reference from a care team member . Applicants are asked to list a reference from their care team in the application, and One-to-One Program staff may contact the medical team to ensure that the volunteer is appropriate medically and emotionally to support others in need.

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong. As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty, staff, and volunteers. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.