Welcome to the Peer Connections Volunteers resource page – we’re glad you’re here! Our Peer Connections Volunteers are trained individuals who focus on the needs of people affected by MS needing support. This page is designed to support you in your role(s) as a Peer Connections Volunteer by providing relevant information and resources to prepare and ensure continued success in working with individuals in the MS community.
This page provides links to general MS information, Society services and support, and the resources specific to your volunteer role. Additionally, you’ll find best practices and tips for successfully hosting a self-help group, handling difficult conversations, and resources to share with participants for additional emotional support.
If you have any questions about the content below, please reach out to your staff partner or the Peer Connections Resource Team at
PeerConnections@nmss.org. We’re thankful to each of you for volunteering your time and passion!
How Can I Become a Peer Connections Volunteer?
- Self-help Group Leader – these volunteers are trained to lead virtual and/or in-person groups to facilitate emotional and social connections to others in the MS community.
- MSFriends – these volunteers provide confidential one-to-one conversations via a helpline or a virtual pairing with a participant to meet at a pre-determined time for ongoing communication.
- Online Community Leader – these volunteers work as a team to maintain a safe online community space, and to provide encouragement, support, and information about Society resources to online community members through commenting and direct messaging.
If you’re interested in becoming a Peer Connections Volunteer, review the job description links above and email
PeerConnections@nmss.org for more information and next steps.