2026 New Peer Support Volunteer Training
2025 Candlelight Service of Remembrance
November 12, 2025
Our 2026 Application Period is Now Open
We are excited to announce that we will conduct new volunteer training in early March 2026 for those interested in becoming a Kara peer support volunteer. Volunteers (English speaking) are needed in our Adult Services and Youth & Family Services Programs to provide compassionate grief support to children, teens, and adults grieving the death of a significant relationship. Due to the diverse populations we serve and various types of loss we support (from deaths by suicide, illness or sudden events, to the death of a sibling, child, parent, or spouse/partner), we are seeking individuals who can accompany another through their unique grief journey, either in person and/or via tele-support. All interested individuals must attend an Informational Meeting Session.
Note: This application and training are for individuals looking to volunteer in Kara's Peer Support Programs, and not for Kara's Therapy Program.
Informational Sessions (One Required)
Three sessions are being offered as listed below. These meetings will provide details about Kara programs, the training, and volunteer commitments. Applying to become a volunteer requires attendance to an informational session to ensure a clear understanding of the volunteer commitment and expectations. To register for an Informational Session, click on one of the following links:
Our training is designed in an intentional way that honors both the sensitive and powerful nature of grief and the participants taking part. To ensure that participants receive adequate support throughout the training process, our volunteer training cohorts have size limitations. Due to these size limitations and the reverence for grief, we utilize an application process. Unfortunately we often receive more applications than we have participant slots available in the training, therefore please note that applying to volunteer does not guarantee entry into training.
Below is a summary of our application process to allow for clarity and transparency for interested applicants. If you have questions or need support please contact us at training@kara-grief.org
The Volunteer Application Process
- Service Expectation - A minimum of at least a one-year commitment (more preferred) is required following the successful completion of the training. This is to ensure that we are able to meet the needs of our clients. Prior to applying, please reflect on your availability and the sincere commitment to the bereaved that we expect.
- Informational Meeting - Attend ONE session to further understand the work that we do and the programs we offer.
- Complete the Volunteer Application - If you need assistance, please contact us. Applications are due by January 25, 2026.
- Application Acknowledgement - If an application is completed you will receive a phone call of acknowledgement and application status update.
- Volunteer Candidate Interview - Conducted beginning the week of January 26th through the month of February. Following this final step (concluding at the close of February), training roster and participation will be finalized.
Training Dates
The scheduled training dates for Adult Services and Youth and Family Services are provided below. Please note those wishing to volunteer for Camp Kara have additional dates in June.
| Date | Time | Programs | Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday, March 13, 2026 | 9:00am-5:00pm | Adult Services and Youth and Family Services | In Person |
| Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 9:00am-12:00pm | Adult Services | In Person |
| Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 10:00am-4:00pm | Youth and Family Services | In Person |
| Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 6:00pm-9:00pm | Adult Services | Online via Zoom |
| Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 6:30pm-8:30pm | Youth and Family Services | Online via Zoom |
| Saturday, March 21, 2026 | 9:00am-5:00pm | Adult Services and Youth and Family Services | In Person |
| Thursday, June 25, 2026* | 6:00pm-9:00pm | Youth and Family Services (Camp Kara) | TBD |
| Saturday, June 27, 2026* | 8:00am-1:00pm | Youth and Family Services (Camp Kara) | In Person |
To download this information as a pdf document, click here.
Applications accepted through January 25, 2026. Sign Up Here to Receive Email Updates About Upcoming Volunteer Training Opportunities.
