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Branch and Program Responsibilities:

1. All Coordinators must sign a confidentiality form.

2. Approximately 5 to 10 hours per meeting week.  Coordinator`s hours will vary, according to number of members, number of meetings, volunteers to assist and so on. (This figure includes the branch meeting.)

3. Locate a meeting place in a community environment that is suitable to hold the number of members and the recommended program e.g. additional rooms for: caregiver discussion groups, speech maintenance sessions, and kitchen space.  It must be wheelchair accessible.

4. Screen potential members and families to be sure they are eligible: (1) that they have had a stroke, and (2) still live independently rather than in a care facility.

5. Plan the branch programs for one month in advance.  The basic elements, as stated by the Provincial Office, are to be incorporated. Oversee program delivery on branch days.

6. Motivate stroke survivors both mentally and physically.  Stimulate independence by encouraging members to assume responsibilities for branch activities.  Delegate tasks to members as appropriate.  Be creative and collaborative. Telephone each member prior to meetings to remind/support them in coming to the branch.  This is especially important to new members.

7. Address/resolve whenever necessary, issues arising through branch activity. If needed, the Provincial Coordinator can be contacted for advice.

8. Facilitate annual elections to form an Executive Committee, prior to the Association’s Annual Convention.  An Executive Committee may include:  president and vice-president, treasurer, secretary, director and caregivers or volunteers.

9. Operate as a stroke resource person for members.  When a member desires counseling, refer to a Health Care Professional.

10. Order and purchase relevant supplies and equipment for branch meetings.

Volunteer Activities

1. Recruit a sufficient number of volunteers to assist with the program delivery. Use the volunteer job description as a guide.
2. Train and supervise volunteers.  Acknowledge, review and recognize their contributions.
3. Ensure the branch’s volunteers are well informed about safety issues and the Association’s insurance policy. (Volunteers are not covered under the SRABC Liability Policy, if injured while giving hands-on help to stroke survivors.)  Members needing physical care must bring their own caregiver or attendant.

Community Liaison

1. Liaise with the local Health Unit, hospital and other community groups, as appropriate for new referrals and to provide information about the branch.
2. Obtain therapists to assist i.e. exercise session and speech session.  When therapists are not available, volunteers can be trained, using Provincial Office or other training material.
3. Organize transportation for members e.g. HandiDart, for meetings and outings.
4. Public Relations:  public speaking, fundraising, etc., with assistance from members and volunteers.

Administrative Work

1. Attend the annual Coordinator’s Training Workshop held by the Association, generally held in the Vancouver area. Coordinator’s expenses are paid by the Association.
2. Keep important and relevant member information on a permanent file in accordance with legislation.
3. Develop a simple, annual budget for the branch with the help of the branch treasurer.
4. Complete required reports for the Provincial Office e.g. monthly branch report, Monthly Financial Report, grant reports and submit by the deadlines.
5. Answer all mail, donations, in memoriam, etc.

Special Note: The Coordinator may organize volunteer and member committees to do some of the above tasks but is responsible to ensure the tasks are completed appropriately.
Club Banking Procedures Assist the Treasurer in opening a branch bank account.  (May delegate bookkeeping to the branch treasurer.  All cheques must have 2 signatures.  All coordinator’s cheques are to be signed by 2 signing officers, other than the coordinator).  Anyone handling branch money must have security clearance from your local RCMP.

Meetings with Branch Executive

1. Have a working knowledge of Roberts Rules of Order (newly revised).
2. Have a working knowledge of the Association’s By-Laws.
3. Attend Executive Committee meetings by invitation.
4. Ensure Branch’s Executive Committee meetings are held regularly. E.g. monthly.

Meetings in General

1. All of the above apply, & oversee, but not direct, the monthly business portion of branch days.
2. Supply the Branch President with agenda.

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