Volunteer Opportunities

Food Recovery Program Volunteers Wanted!

Description

Focused on food security, A Better Life Foundation provides daily meals, training, education, and practice inclusive hiring and takes climate change action to make a direct, meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most. We have been working to end food insecurity in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES) and other forms of inequities in wellbeing and self-actualization including, barriers to employment, social isolation, stigmatization, or ostracisation, for the last ten years with a small team and a large amount of passion.

Our Volunteer Opportunity

As part of our commitment to sustainable practices, we developed a food recovery program, diverting literal tons of edible food from local grocery stores, yet headed to the landfill, and redistributing them through our meal programs and to other community groups. Since June 2020, we’ve saved over 71 metric tonnes of perfectly good food from being wasted and offset 76,000kg of Carbon!

We are looking for committed weekly volunteers to support our Food Recovery Chef in the prepping and cooking of 100+ meals and in the collection, sorting and redistribution of the recovered food intakes.

We have volunteer shifts available:

• From Monday to Friday
• 4 hours long
• From 10am to 2pm each day

What to expect?

If you’re passionate about cooking, food rescue, and alleviating food insecurity, then this opportunity might just be the right fit for you!

With multiple programs and over 1500 meals to prepare and distribute per day, you will be volunteering as part of an energetic and lively team, chopping and mixing to the rhythm of our chef’s music playlist!

Some lifting may be involved but we organise the tasks according to everyone’s abilities.

Skills & Knowledge Students will Gain

We thrive in being able to positively influence young allies’ career paths and hope that the hands-on skills developed during this placement impacts their professional and personal trajectory. 

This position will offer you the opportunity to:

• Be part of the community of advocates on the importance of food security for people living in the DTES.
• Fostering empathy and giving opportunities for meaningful connection between communities of people.
• We run an incredibly successful Training and Employment Program, partnering with local employment groups to provide training and jobs to hundreds of people with traditional barriers to employment. You will thus see first hand and learn first hand the positive impact that respect, care and practices that comes for furthering an inclusive and accessible workplace.
• Learn foundational cooking, nutrition and sustainable practice skills.

What are we looking for?

• Enjoys team work and dynamic environment
• A fondness for cooking
• Attention to details
• Reliability and Punctuality

Where are we located?

We are located at the former Save On Meat Diner, at 43 West Hastings Street. Our entrance is accessible from the back alley and will give you the needed directions prior.

How to get in touch with us?

If you’re interested in assisting with this role, we have two ways for you to reach out to us:

1. Send us a message directly on our organization’s email address: [email protected]
2. Feel free to directly fill out our “VOLUNTEER SIGN UP FORM” which you can access through this link. This will give you the opportunity to give us more information about you, your expectations, and availability so we can evaluate what the best fit would be for you! 

BC 211: New Safe Seniors, Strong Communities Program

A program that matches seniors who need support with non-medical essentials, to volunteers in their community who are willing to help. Volunteers required for grocery shopping and delivery, meal preparation, prescription pick up and drop off, and phone or virtual visits.

Please fill up an application form here.  

Better Sound Environmentally Sound Transportation is a diverse and an all-inclusive Non-profit organization that has been a leader in promoting sustainable transportation since its inception. We are working to enable sustainable and active transportation choices for the community through initiatives such as offering innovative social enterprises, programs and services. Our initiatives led to dramatic improvements to transportation policy and planning in the Greater Vancouver region, and across Canada. We strive to push for better urban planning, cleaner air, and sustainable, equitable and efficient transportation systems.

Open volunteer positions:

• Executive Assistant
• Bookkeeping Associate
• Program Assistant (Living Streets/Bike Valet/Seniors on the Move)

See here for full volunteer descriptions.

Interested in applying? Please send your resume over to [email protected]

Volunteer with Canadian Cancer Society 

Volunteering with the Canadian Cancer Society is a great opportunity for you to make a positive impact in your community, be part of a team, share your experience, learn new skills and develop lasting friendships. Volunteers are critical to our accomplishments and we wouldn’t be able to support, inform and empower those touched by cancer without you.

When you join our nationwide team, you have the combined strength of volunteers from across the country standing behind you to help you make a difference in someone’s life.

At the Canadian Cancer Society, we strive to create a culture of volunteer engagement where volunteers find meaningful ways to support Canadians living with cancer.

Volunteer opportunities are available across BC and the Yukon. To learn about current openings, please view our volunteer position listings here.

Volunteer with CNIB (Canadian National Institute for the Blind) as a Vision Mate 

CNIB Foundation is a non-profit organization driven to change what it is to be blind today.  We deliver innovative programs and powerful advocacy that empower people impacted by blindness to live their dreams and tear down barriers to inclusion. Our work as a blind foundation is powered by a network of volunteers, donors and partners from coast to coast to coast.

Vision Mate Position Description:

Make a difference in the life of an individual in your community who is blind or partially sighted!  Volunteer for a couple of hours a week to provide community-based support through one-to-one sighted assistance and companionship for someone who is blind or partially sighted.

If you are looking to make that one-on-one connection and help someone within your community, this might be the opportunity for you. CNIB look for volunteers who are friendly, positive, empathetic, responsible, and comfortable working with individuals with vision loss, especially with seniors.  Our volunteers meet specific needs of people who are blind or partially sighted and are matched according to specific participant’s needs.  Matches take place based on compatibility, location and availability. Our volunteers are screened and trained in sighted guide techniques to properly assist those living with vision loss. Please note that Vision Mate volunteers do not drive, cook, provide personal care or clean.

Responsibilities & Tasks:
•Regularly visit a client in their home or other suitable environments at a mutually convenient time
•Activities are determined by participant need and mutually agreed upon
•Some approved activities are: reading, organizing, walking, assisting with errands or outings, and friendly visiting

Please click here for more information on how to apply.

Canadian Red Cross Volunteer Opportunities 

The Red Cross is there when Canadians need us most. Across Canada, we help build safer communities by providing local health services, water safety and first aid programs, education on the prevention of violence, bullying and abuse, and much more.

Whenever disasters strike – such as floods, wild fires, hurricanes, storms or house fires – the Canadian Red Cross is ready to help vulnerable communities. From building disaster resiliency to providing vital assistance to meet people’s basic needs, we’re there to give support thanks to our dedicated volunteers.

If you are looking for opportunities to give back to your community, meet new people, have new experiences, volunteering with the Red Cross could be the right place for you.  The Canadian Red Cross in British Columbia and Yukon offers an extensive network of programs and services that actively reach out and serve local communities throughout the regions. 

Please have a look at the following volunteer opportunities at Canadian Red Cross:

Health Equipment Loan Program – Client Services Volunteer

Emergency Management Volunteer

The mandate of the Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood House is to provide programming and educational, leadership, social and recreational opportunities to residents of Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.

The secular, grassroots Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood House (DTES NH) embraces people of all ancestries, genders, ages and descriptions; annually welcoming almost 9,000 DTES residents in a community where 70% of our neighbours have low‐incomes, 700 are homeless and 5,000 are under-housed.

Our programming is community inspired and varied, a sampling of which has included a Chinese Elders Community Kitchen, Traditional Aboriginal Community Kitchen, Leadership Development, a Children’s Community Kitchen, Nutritional Outreach Activities (Mobile Smoothie Project and Banana Beat), The Healing Circle, Father’s for Thought, Table Talks project, Family Drop In: Families, Farming and Food, Community Drop-in and the production of a Right to Food Zine.

Volunteers needed for the following programs:

• Community Drop-In
• Family Drop-In Program
• Monthly Banana Beat Program (DTES outreach)
• Tuesday Night Prep Group
• Cooking for CRAB Park

Please click here to view the volunteer opportunities and details to apply.

Social Media Assistant 

We are looking for Social Media Assistants who will be tasked to assist with the development and execution of FGI’s digital promotional strategy. This includes collaborating with the Board Members and Administrative Assistants to plan, write, schedule, and share promotional posts across multiple social media platforms for FGI. This is a longer volunteer position that will last anywhere from 2-8 months, ranging from 5 to 15 hours a week and this job experience will also help to gain meaningful work experience for your resume.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Assist with development and execution of FGI’s marketing strategy
• Generate creative and search engine optimized content including images, videos, and stories
• Share posts in the relevant community groups
• Perform tasks for Social Media Coordinator as required
• Assist with the delivery of content and programming, archival coverage, and other event-specific tasks during event days
• Reach out, connect, and work with local businesses in the community to explore and create program content fitting FGI’s agenda

Required Qualifications:

• High-level proficiency in written and verbal communication skills
• Creative and methodical personalities
• Ability to meet changing priorities while meeting set deadlines
• Experience working in a highly collaborative environment
• Detail-oriented and organized
• Time management skills
• Proficiency in Google Office Apps and iMovie
• Willing to adapt and learn new skills and software
• Committed and highly motivated

To apply, please send an email with your interest, availability, and resume to: [email protected]

Frog Hollow empowers local residents in Hastings-Sunrise

Our volunteers play a key role in building a community together. Due to COVID-19, we have a reduced number of volunteer opportunities available, and many positions are virtual. Even though our programs have been limited, we are so grateful for those who have been side-by-side supporting Frog Hollow during these challenging times. We love and appreciate you all, our volunteers!

See here to learn more about our volunteer programs and to get details about current volunteering positions.

Volunteer with Greater Vancouver Food Bank 

Come and join us at one of our 13 community food hubs, community events, or our head office and warehouse. Volunteers are the heart and soul of the Greater Vancouver Food Bank and we couldn’t serve our clients without you!

Volunteer opportunities:

• Event Volunteers

• Community Food Hub Volunteers

• Fresh and Dry Food Sorters

• Admin Support

• Warehouse Volunteers

• Additional Seasonal Roles

Contact [email protected] or 604-880-7073 if you have any questions.  

Click here to learn more and to sign up for these volunteering roles.

Community Clean-up with Hastings Sunrise Community Policing Centre

Volunteers are the nucleus of the Hastings Sunrise Community Policing Centre (HSCPC). They not only participate in programs and projects, but also play a significant role in the operation and leadership of the centre.

The Community Clean-up program is a year-round initiative that mobilizes volunteers and supports community members to remove litter and graffiti from Hastings Sunrise.We are looking for volunteers to participate in the clean-ups as well as to help organize events and support other participants.  

How do I get involved?

1. Attend the next volunteer information session to learn more about the Hastings Sunrise Community Policing Centre (HSCPC), our programs and volunteer opportunities.

2. Submit our online volunteer application. The link will be provided to you after attending the info session.

3. Meet with our volunteer coordinator to begin the application process and agree to a criminal record check.

4. After your application and criminal record check have been successfully processed, we will contact you for follow-up

5. Once you become a volunteer, after participating in our orientation and training, you will be able to choose from a variety of opportunities.

Learn more about the Hastings Sunrise Community Police Centre here: hastingssunrisecpc.com

Please send any direct inquires to Carmen MacLeod at [email protected]. 

Volunteer with Mount Pleasant Neighborhood House

Mount Pleasant Neighborhood House is a volunteer-driven organization, relying on participation and contributions to maintain and deliver programs.  There are many volunteer opportunities within the House from helping in the kitchen to volunteering with house programs or assisting with administrative activities.

Volunteer opportunities are available during the day and the evening.  If you want to have fun, meet new people, connect with other community members, build up your skills and give back to the community please join us!

Check out the Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House volunteer page for more details on other positions.

Tutors needed for The Distance Computer Comfort at Neil Squire

Volunteer Tutors will teach basic computer and mobile device skills to adults with disabilities.  Looking for volunteers who will be able to commit up to 2 hours per week, for about 12 weeks.

Instruction typically includes word processing, Internet, email, social media and mobile devices. Other topics include MS Office software and Assistive Technology.  The program is based online and delivered through communication technology which means that the Distance Computer Tutor is able to work from home and on a flexible schedule (ie. mornings, afternoons, evenings, after work, etc).  We are especially looking for tutors who are available weekday mornings and afternoons.

The Distance Computer Tutor strives to increase each participant’s level of comfort and independence with computer and mobile device technology. Participants may be located anywhere across Canada. Training can be provided to ensure the Distance Computer Tutor is completely comfortable with the technology and software used.

Please see here to apply and to read more about the volunteer requirements.

Shelter Movers looking for Movers/Drivers

Shelter Mover’s is a volunteer-powered, federally registered charitable organization that provides moving and storage services at no cost to survivors and their children experiencing abuse.

In collaboration with community partners such as YWCA and victim services, our Vancouver chapter completes 25 moves a month, helping women, families, and people transition to safety. Thank you for making the community a safer place!

Shelter Mover’s is looking for new volunteers, especially movers and drivers, as well as move coordinators, fundraisers, grant writers, and volunteer coordinators, to join our amazing team of hard-working, compassionate volunteers! This is a great opportunity for those hoping to affect change on an individual and community level, gain trauma-informed volunteer experience, and connect with other compassionate volunteers.

Please read the volunteer description for more information.

If interested, please send a brief description outlining your interest as well as your resume to [email protected]

Strathcona Community Policing Centre Volunteer Opportunities 

The Strathcona Community Policing Centre (SCPC) is looking for students who are ready to get hands on experience while giving back to the community! The SCPC is one of 11 Community Policing Centres, working with the Vancouver Police Department (VPD). Working in partnership, the SCPC provides various programs and services to the community. We are the bridge between the community and the VPD.

Volunteering with the SCPC will provide students with a number of unique opportunities and invaluable experience that will help their application in the future. Working closely with the staff and Neighbourhood Police Officer (NPO), volunteers will be trained and engage in the following programs/activities:

• Information & Referral Services;

• Community Outreach;

• Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED);

• Diversity & Inclusion;

• Patrol Programs;

• Special Projects including participation in VPD training exercises;

• Road Safety Program; and

• Volunteer Appreciation

If anyone is interested in becoming a volunteer (must be 18+ years old), please visit our website at www.Strathconacpc.ca and complete the application form or apply in person at 872 East Hastings Street. Once the application form is approved, we will make an appointment for an interview. We only require our volunteers to provide a minimum commitment of 4 hours per month. If you have any question, please don’t hesitate to contact me at [email protected].

We highly value our volunteers and will provide you with ongoing training, support and encouragement so that you can work efficiently and make positive change in our community.

Community Safety Volunteers with Surrey Crime Prevention Society 

Surrey Crime Prevention Society is a not for profit organization an supports communities throughout the City of Surrey. We work in partnership with the City of Surrey, RCMP, Delta Police, ICBC, By-Laws, Business, Social Agencies and other not for profits. Our programs are measured and provide valuable input towards the enhancement of safety in Surrey.

Please see here for the volunteer description of the Community Safety Volunteers

Volunteer Applications can be submitted online at www.preventcrime.ca.  

Vancouver Asian Film Festival 

The Vancouver Asian Film Festival (VAFF) is looking for passionate, community-minded, and fun-seeking volunteers to join a dynamic group of arts & film lovers.  Volunteer to bring alive year-round programs and events leading up to the longest running film festival of its kind in Canada every November. In return, volunteers will get access to free movies, special events and a new family.

Looking for volunteers to support in:

• Festival Assistant
• Volunteer Manager(s)
• Social Media Coordinator
• Social Media Content Editor(s)
• Marketing Manager(s)
• Graphic Designer(s)
• Business Development Manager(s)
• Sponsorship Director     

To apply for these volunteer positions, please fill up an application form.  

Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.  

BOSS Conference Digital Host Volunteer

The Digital Host will offer support to Vantage Point staff and session speakers during the BOSS Conference (November 15th and 16th). Read more about BOSS here: https://bossvancouver.ca/

The Digital Host will engage with a variety of conference attendees, session speakers, and team members in an event and virtual-meeting support role. All training will be provided online by relevant team members. This role will work remotely and requires use of laptop, phone, and stable internet connection.

See here for more information: volunteerconnector.org/vancouver/vantage-point/boss-conference-digital-host-volunteer

Gain Leadership Experience with YWCA’s Youth Education Programs

Guide to High School program is an all-gender after-school program that aims to support students in the transition to high school by discussing topics such as social media, holistic health, peer pressure, stress management, power dynamics and identity.

• As a Facilitator, you will be supporting Grade 7s in their transition into high school by leading pre-written activities and discussions with a team of other volunteers.
• In this role, you would benefit by: Gaining leadership and facilitation experience along with Inclusive Leadership and Facilitation Certificate
  Engaging with your community and connecting with like-minded people
  Developing and enhancing interpersonal skills including public speaking, teamwork, conflict resolution, and group management
• The program runs from 3-5:30pm, once a week for 8 weeks from April to May. No prior experience needed and we welcome volunteers from all backgrounds! Training will be provided prior to the program as wel
• For more information or to apply, please click here or visit https://ywcavan.org/programs/youth-education.