FPM Volunteer Orientation_2023
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Leading with Empathy<br />
Tips for Communicating<br />
with Empathy<br />
Always inquire with families how<br />
you can best support them. For example,<br />
"Would you like me to set the table?" or "Can I<br />
help you with the dishes?" empowers them to<br />
decide where they need help.<br />
Remember that empathic communication is not<br />
just the words you say but also your actions and<br />
even facial expressions. Make sure they are<br />
aligned with your good intentions.<br />
Be observant of families’ cues. A lack of eye<br />
contact, clenched jaw, or torso turned away can<br />
all signal a desire to disengage. Do not take this<br />
personally. Our families are under stress and<br />
sometimes need time away from others.<br />
Even with these stressors in mind, families and<br />
volunteers are expected to interact respectfully<br />
with one another. If you are ever uncomfortable<br />
with an individual’s behavior, please report your<br />
concerns to our Program Director (see page 70).<br />
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