Canal Alliance

Compañeras is a program that matches bi-cultural, bilingual Spanish speaking birth coaches to work with monolingual Spanish speaking high-risk expectant mothers during the last trimester of their pregnancies. At minimum, the coach connects with the client once before the birth, serves as a coach during birth at the hospital, and provides a follow-up postpartum call.  Volunteers, however, often extend more frequent communication, which we absolutely encourage.

All birth coaches must be at least 18 years of age. Volunteers will undergo a screening process, which will include an interview, Spanish proficiency test, and a possible criminal background check. The volunteer birth coaches must be sensitive and supportive to the needs of families facing great challenges. The volunteers need to have semi-flexible schedules that allow them to be on call to attend births. Training is provided.

Other ways to support this program are to donate baby items. A volunteer could also present/provide your professional skills or prepare healthy snacks and refreshments to our monthly mothers support group.

While the basic commitment to Compañeras lasts only four months, you’ll find the impact lasts a lifetime!

For more information, contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at 415 306-0452.