Ben Ziegler, thanks for the remarkable support and insights at our caregiver support groups
Written by Lycia Rodrigues
Ben Zeigler, Volunteer FCBC Support Group Facilitator
Family Caregivers of BC (FCBC) is thrilled to have Ben Ziegler as one of our caregiver support group facilitators. In 2017, Ben and I connected about expanding our caregiver support groups to create a men’s-only group. I was impressed with Ben’s determination to start our in-person Men’s Caregiver Support Group in the Greater Victoria area, where he brought his expertise in creating positive experiences to the group. In Ben’s blog, he describes the relationships fostered within the group as ‘cumulative’.
In 2018, we started our FCBC Community of Practice for Support Group Facilitators. These meetings involve FCBC trained facilitators from various organizations throughout the province that offer caregiver support groups. In these groups, facilitators will share knowledge, resources and challenges for group discussions. Ben was one of our key members, sharing knowledge and helping us to increase this community of facilitators. Ben also helped us to understand the need connect with caregivers from various cultural backgrounds, targeting local diversity within the Greater Victoria area.
At the beginning of the pandemic, when isolation was a huge burden for caregivers, Ben immediately volunteered to launch and facilitate our BC Men’s Virtual Caregiver Support Group. Because of Ben, male caregivers now have a safe online space, where they can share stories and mutual understanding. Ben has noted the importance of these monthly meetings in his blog, and reminds us that every caregiver has a unique story and circumstance.
Thank you, Ben, for joining our FCBC volunteer team and for generously offering remarkable support at our virtual and in-person support groups these past years. As you note in your blog, the world is indeed a more manageable and kinder place when we support each other.
Interested in making a difference? As an FCBC volunteer, you are part of a network of compassionate people like Ben, who make a difference in the lives of caregivers every day. If you are interested volunteering with us, please don’t hesitate to connect. Reach us by email or by phone: 250 940 6712 ext. 108.
