Included in the Program

  • On-Demand Modules

    There are 5 topical courses that give you background about key aspects of the work we do. These multimedia courses are available on the platform for you to access any time. You can complete these in any order, and are welcome to return to them when you like. Many of the courses include additional resources or information that you can use to continue your own learning.

  • Handbook

    We’ve combined our reference material with a workbook, so you can add your own notes, reflections and insights to your handbook and access it in one place. Your handbook is divided into two sections that mirror the courses.

  • Live Virtual Sessions

    There are 5 live sessions that will prepare you for facilitating a circle. These sessions include some “pre-work” that you’ll access through the platform. You’ll also find your zoom link there.

On-Demand Courses

There are 5 topical courses that give you background about key aspects of the work we do. These multimedia courses are available on the platform for you to access any time. You can complete these in any order, and are welcome to return to them when you like. Many of the courses include additional resources or information that you can use to continue your own learning.

10+ Hours of Content

Self Help – this course will focus on the self-help model that we use in our circles. It will also provide information on our circles, including the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG) circles.

Ethics– this course will introduce you to the Ethical Principles we practice and the Ethical Decision Making Model that we use.

Preventing Child Abuse  – this course will provide you with background information on the roots of child abuse, the difference between discipline and abuse and how to report to MCFD.

Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion  – this course will provide you with information about a range of diversity issues: stereotypes, discrimination, gender identity and sexuality, and systemic racism.

Indigenous Perspectives  – this course will provide you with a brief overview of Indigenous history and highlight some key events or aspects that have shaped their experience. 

5 Live Virtual Sessions

Small Groups to Allow for Practice

During the live virtual sessions (held via Zoom), we'll provide opportunity to practice facilitating with your peers. These sessions will give you a chance to gain confidence in your facilitation skills.

Facilitation Skills

Each Live Virtual Session has a different focus

1.    Getting Started (2 hours) – this session will include: how to give a land acknowledgement, establishing agreements, creating an empowering environment

2.    Role of the Facilitator (2 hours) – this session will include: the role of the facilitator, communication skills, Body Language/Non-Verbal Cues, and Cross-Cultural Communication

3.    Strong Co-Facilitation to Meet the Needs of the Group (2 hours) – this session will include: the Ethical Decision Making Model, reporting potential abuse to MCFD, discipline vs abuse and co-facilitation.

4.    Create a Safe Space for All (2 hours) – this session will include a focus on diversity and inclusion. You’ll practice how to establish a safe space, inclusive practices (such as being anti-racist vs not racist, using preferred pronouns, etc) and discussion on GRG resources.

5.    Maintaining your Circle (2 hours) – this session will focus on group dynamics and how to manage a variety of challenging situations. We’ll also cover the signs of progress and how to end a meeting.


Make the Most of Your Learning Experience

Before getting started, here are some tips that can help you maximize your time and energy for learning.

  • Download the Handbook for notes, reflection and reference. Keep it with you when you are completing the course.

  • Keep your login information handy. We recommend that you take your time to complete the modules. This may involve stepping away from your device for breaks, reflection and journalling. You'll need to be able to jump back into the course and pick up where you left off!

  • Make a "study schedule". There's a lot of rich content to work through and you might find it helpful to have a plan and some structure to support your learning.

  • Consider your space. Giving yourself a comfortable place to learn is important. Somewhere quiet where you are less likely to be interrupted is ideal. Add lighting if you need it and include comfortable seating.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long will the program take?

    We recommend that you give yourself time to go through the on-demand modules, allocating 1-2 hours for each topic. You may find it helpful to spread it out over time. The Virtual Sessions are a total of 12 hours.

  • Will I get a certificate?

    If you complete the Live Virtual Sessions, you will get a certificate of completion.

  • Will there be any other training?

    Yes, our model is to provide ongoing opportunities for professional development and we anticipate hosting more sessions throughout the year.

  • Does it cost anything?

    We subsidize the training for our volunteers. The cost for us to deliver the program is $400 per person. If a volunteer completes their one year commitment, then the training is 100% subsidized. If a volunteer does not complete their one year commitment, then the amount is pro-rated.