How to Volunteer as a Doula
Doulas are often a valuable asset to the birth team. Doulas offer a mother emotional, informational and physical support during her pregnancy, birth and postpartum period. Volunteering as a doula can help you get a start in this field while learning more and deciding if you want to become certified. This can also be valuable to a mother who cannot afford a certified doula and may instead be looking for a volunteer.
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Instructions
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Take a doula training course. You can find available trainings from doula organizations like DONA, CAPPA or Childbirth International. These organizations often host trainings throughout different states during the year, or you can take a distance training course through videos or an Internet-based training course. Even if you do not plan to become certified, you still need to have a base training.
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Join a support group. Many states have doula support groups and gladly welcome volunteer doulas. You may even have an opportunity to shadow a more experienced doula by joining a group. If you cannot find a local group, join one online. The experience of talking to fellow doulas can offer you lots of additional support and ideas.
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Make a brochure or flier about your services. Include your contact information, any credentials and a mission statement. Explain why you want to be a volunteer doula, what benefits are involved for families and why you can do a good job.
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Contact local Women, Infants and Children (WIC) offices in your area. These offices support low-income women who may not have many the resources to pay for an experienced doula. This is a great place to leave your brochures or fliers.
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Contact crisis pregnancy centers. The main focus of crisis pregnancy centers is counseling and education; however, they may be more than willing to have a volunteer doula as part of their team. For moms who wish to have natural births or just want to learn more about the birthing process, this is a great option. You will gain experience and assist mothers in their journeys.
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Contact your local hospitals. Some hospitals already have volunteer doula programs. This may involve taking an on-call status with other doulas for a night or two. When a mother comes in, the option of a doula is offered to her and if she agrees, you are immediately employed. This could be a quick and intense way to gain skill and experience.
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Put your information in local obstetrician and midwife offices or birthing centers. If you have connections, you may be able to get the office to include your information in the initial pregnancy packet they give to mothers.
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Evaluate other places that pregnant women often visit such as: yoga studios, childbirth education classes, baby CPR classes, maternity stores, health-food stores, ultrasound clinics and more. You really do have endless opportunities when it comes to being a volunteer doula.
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Tips & Warnings
Always market yourself as a professional.
Be honest with the clients who contact you about your volunteer status.
Always follow through with what you tell a client.
Be willing to work with other doulas in the area.
Host a doula party to meet and greet with other doulas who can offer advice and help get your start in the field.
Establish a contract outlining your boundaries, expectations and responsibilities.
