JOIN OUR VOLUNTEER LETTER-WRITING TEAM!

Are you passionate about spreading joy and brightening someone's day? Do you have a knack for writing heartfelt letters? Join our dedicated team of volunteers and make a meaningful difference in the lives of seniors in aged care homes in the area and across Canada.  

WHAT WE DO 

We're an all-volunteer organization that mails cheerful, personal, handwritten letters and cards to elders in care facilities and senior programs. Since April 2020, tens of thousands of volunteers have sent nearly one million pieces of correspondence in 30 languages!

WHAT WE OFFER 

• A chance to make a direct and positive impact on the lives of seniors.
• Flexibility to volunteer from anywhere, anytime, year-round as an individual or with a team.
• A special program to verify service hours for students and professionals seeking community service credits. (Separate registration is required.)
• Tips and guidance for crafting personal and meaningful letters available on our website and social media platforms.
• An inclusive environment where volunteers are encouraged to share their own uplifting stories and experiences without making assumptions about the recipient's background or abilities.
• All ages and abilities are welcome! 

HOW YOU CAN HELP

• Join our team of volunteers and commit to writing letters on an ongoing basis.
• While handcrafted cards are welcome, they are not required; your handwritten message is what matters most.
• We encourage volunteers to limit affirmations and focus on sharing a bit about themselves to make each letter unique and special. Seniors tell us that these personal stories their favorite part of the letter!
• Avoid sensitive topics such as religion, holidays, health and politics.
• Our partner facilities in Canada are requesting letters in 10 different languages: English, Arabic, Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Greek, Italian, Portuguese, and Russian.
• Create a group activity for your friends, coworkers, students or club members.
• Partner with a public library to host a letter-writing event.

WHY VOLUNTEER WITH US

• Make a direct and tangible difference in the lives of seniors who may be feeling isolated or lonely.
• Contribute to a positive and inclusive community dedicated to spreading kindness and compassion.
• Experience connection and satisfaction that comes from knowing your words have the power to bring joy and comfort to someone you've never met.
  
  

GET STARTED

• Register on our website as an individual, student, or group to receive our weekly newsletter with updates and access to our web portal. 
• STUDENTS: Please complete the separate student registration using a personal email address. 
• Write some friendly letters. When you're ready to mail them, log into our web portal and choose a destination facility.
• Find us on social media: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook.

Join us in spreading kindness and smiles to senior citizens. Your words will make all the difference!

Animal care * lead animals to pasture, feeding, watering * groom animals * keep all buckets and dishes clean 
 
Barn work * muck out stalls, replace straw, dump wheelbarrows * keep equipment clean and sweep barn floors 
 
Administration * maintain daily logs and animal care records * communicate with Barn Manager about concerns * advocate for Pegasus to attract sponsors and volunteers

Poppy Campaign, decoration committee, Colour Party (walking, holding flags and attending multiple events), meat rolls, fundraiser support, and working in the kitchen 

Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind is looking for volunteers in the Durham region, to help with our donation dog program. You would be responsible for placing new donations dogs in businesses, making the collections and deposits, sending reports, and generally ensuring the donation dogs are kept tidy. This position is great for retirees and those looking to volunteer a few hours a month, with a flexible schedule. If you are interested in joining this national fundraising effort, email Jeff at events@guidedogs.ca.

Designing social media content for our platform that are engaging with current trends and opportunities to increase brand exposure for our company.

• Collaborate in teams and or with other staff members and volunteers.
• Propose ideas to improve DFCC's social media platforms.
• Provide support for designing flyers, and posters while being informed of trending topics.
• Create and plan the contents of the volunteer and or youth monthly newsletter. It can incorporate feature articles, updates and highlights of DFCC's activities and achievements. 
• Create weekly quotes either inspirational or informative to engage followers.
• Writing blog posts about our initiatives and events 
• Identify community needs and recommend new topics

Responsibilities:

1. Document Editing and Communication:

   • Edit and proofread documents related to the operations and initiatives of the Carion Fenn Foundation.
   • Facilitate communication both internally and externally, ensuring clarity and consistency of messaging.

2. Online Advertising Management:

   • Oversee the implementation of online advertising strategies, including SEO, SEM, and ad placement through Google Ads.
   • Monitor and analyze the performance of online ads to optimize campaigns and maximize ROI.

3. Social Media Management:

   • Manage social media accounts across various platforms for the Carion Fenn Foundation.
   • Track and analyze social media metrics to assess engagement and inform content strategies.

Plan and produce specific events held throughout the Region of Durham.

A one (1) year commitment is asked for as a minimum

Current Event Committee opportunities include:  Golf Tournaments, Galas, Awards Ceremonies, Seasonal events, and other special events. Must be at least 21 years of age.

Specific Job Duties:

• Attend Committee meetings and actively participate.
• Have experience with event planning
• Accept assignments and tasks that ensure the committee's objectives are met.
• Gather/share information about potential donors, guests, and sponsors, and build the list through personal and professional networks.
• Assess current attendee and sponsor lists and identify gaps in various networks.
• Create an ongoing list of attendee and sponsor prospects that fit the previously identified gaps.
• Support the organization to achieve the fundraising goals by securing corporate sponsorships and in-kind donations for the silent/live auction.
• Invites individuals and prospects to attend.
• Attend events and help by welcoming and networking with guests.
• Additional duties may be requested by the Committee Chair.

You are expected to stay informed, ask questions, and participate in discussion, decision-making, and implementation of committee activities.

The Mission to Seafarers Southern Ontario is looking for volunteers to support the seafarers when they arrive in our ports here in Oshawa.  Volunteers are needed to support seafarers in our centre by ensuring that we are open, coffee and snacks are available, assist seafarers in their needs and be a friendly face to those that are far from home.  We are also looking for volunteers to visit the ships to connect with the seafarers there and ensure that their welfare and needs are looked after.

We are seeking volunteers to help out at the adoption centre in Pickering at Petsmart .  Duties include:

• cleaning cat cages, litter pans, ensuring cats have fresh food and water
• keeping centre clean
• brushing, socializing and playing with cats 
• Spending time interacting and socializing shyer cats
• talking to public about cats, and potential adopters about adoptable cats 
• assisting with the adoption process for cats approved for adoption 
• communicating with fellow volunteers about any information needed and arranging coverage for any absences

Help our renowned Learning and Engagement Department deliver a variety of educational programming including children's art classes, March Break camp, Summer Camp OPG Sunday and more! Assisting the Learning and Engagement Department is an excellent way to learn about a range of artistic techniques and practices, as well as gain valuable practical experience working with children of all ages. Please inquire if you have any questions about this role!

MG Canada requires a volunteer help our project lead with editing and writing short health related arcticles for our website. MG Canada is a registered charity that promotes awareness for myasthenis gravis patients and caregivers in Canada.. The volunteer would work virtually with our projecte lead, approx 2-3 hours a week on articles that they are comfortable with editing and re-writing, as we have archived articles that wefreshing.

We could not do what we do without our amazing volunteers. Join a dynamic and diverse group of people who are making an important contribution to improving the lives of people with kidney disease.

Volunteering with us is a positive and rewarding experience. Use your skills and talents to help others while exploring opportunities for personal growth in a respectful and supportive environment.

The Kidney Foundation of Canada is the national volunteer organization committed to reducing the burden of kidney disease through funding and stimulating innovative research; providing education and support; promoting access to quality healthcare; and increasing public awareness and commitment to advancing kidney health and organ donation.

We are looking for event day volunteers for our 2024 Kidney Walk that will be responsible for registering walk participants, set-up/take-down of the event, and route marshaling at Lakeview Park (Lakeview Park Ave, Oshawa ON L1J 7Z9) on September 29th, 2024.

Why this is a great opportunity for you: Opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those with kidney disease; personal growth and professional development; hours towards community involvement; networking with volunteers, employees, and other professionals across Ontario.

Essential Skills: Exceptional commitment to the mission while understanding the purpose of the Foundation; takes initiative; ability to engage, motivate, and inspire people; works collaboratively with team members.

Requirements: Carrying and lifting; Dexterity and agility; Walking and/or standing; Communication; Reading and writing; Works collaboratively with Chapter and or Branch staff; Works as part of a team; Must be able to work with minimal supervision. Previous volunteer experience at a special event is an asset.

Minimum age: 13

Suitable for: Groups of volunteers; Family; Students/Classes or individuals

Commitment: September 29th, 2024, from 8:00am-2:00pm.

Training: Information including the meeting spot and staff lead will be provided to all volunteers in advance of the event day. Staff members on-site provide additional orientation and training during the event.

Benefits: Hours of community involvement; Recognition letters of service provided; Free parking; Light refreshments (variety of snacks and drinks); Seeing the impact of volunteer efforts while supporting individuals and their families affected by kidney disease; personal growth and professional development; networking with volunteers, staff across Ontario.

• Assist the swim instructor with children during a swimming lesson as needed
• Volunteers must be at least 14 years old and entering grade 9.
• Provide 2 references (not family)
• Have or be working towards Bronze Medallion
• Commit to a set schedule for the length of a 8-week session
• The schedule will depend on availability. 
• A Vulnerable Sector check is required of those over 18 years of age.

Our weekly event requires:  A Marshall - to help direct the runners at turnpoionts

A Timer - will need a smartphone and be able to download the timing app which will be used to time the prticipants for their 5K wlak/run/jog

A scanner - will need a smartphone to use the app to scan barcodes at the end of the event

A tailwalker - will be walking the course, following the last participant. Will act as course 'sweep' as well as pick up signage.

The volunteers will help our Coaches with on and off court duties such as but not limited to, support campers on court and around camp site, provide guidance during camp activities.

Looking for long-term Volunteers (minimum of 6 months, required to attend 2 hours minimum per week) to assist with every day programs, events, outings, entertainment and much MORE!

Demonstrate daily activities of museum woodwork shop * create items for sale in gift shop * use skills to repair and restore existing village buildings

Seeking volunteer male mentors for boys ages 9 - 16. Must be 21+ and preferably identifies as representing the Afro-Canadian Black community. If you are empathetic, kind and caring, we would love to connect you with a youth in need of support and guidance. Position is hybrid (both in person and virtual), and commit to at least 6 months. Please contact us for more details.

Be a part of a team of museum village gardeners * assist in the research, planning, planting, and maintenance of the heritage gardens

We are seeking volunteers to reach out to individuals and groups that might be interested in writing friendly, meaningful letters to elders in aged care homes and senior citizen programs. Letters Against Isolation is ideal for: 

• Library programming
• Summer literacy activities
• Foreign language studies
• Volunteer from home initiatives
• Card crafters
• Neighborhood groups
• Service organizations 
• Team bonding activities
• Writer groups
• Seniors Helping Seniors
• Classroom activities

Post and share our physical or digital FLYER:

1. Community bulletin boards
2. Libraries
3. Book, stationery and craft stores
4. School campuses
5. Foreign language programs 
6. Senior centers
7. Service organizations 
8. Youth volunteering programs

2024 flyer in PDF format

2024 flyer in JPG format

• Conduct guided tours for visitor groups of all ages, sharing stories and insights about our exhibits.

• Conduct gallery interpretation and interact with visitors during public events, including March Break and Doors Open Oshawa. Engage with visitors, provide interpretation on the collection, and answer questions to enhance their museum experience.

• Interact with tour groups, school classes, car clubs,  and individual visitors, tailoring your communication to suit different age ranges and backgrounds.

• Be on-call to be onsite at minimum 2 hours a week, spending time circulating in the galleries when not giving tours. Work with museum staff to ensure a welcoming and informative environment for all visitors.

Reporting to the Fund Development Team, assist in managing various administrative tasks related to our fundraising efforts.

• Prepare thank-you letters and cards to donors to express appreciation for their contributions
• Conduct research to create potential donor request lists
• Ensure timely and accurate delivery of acknowledgment materials to donors
• Track donor acknowledgements and contacts in donor management system
• Assist in maintaining a donor management system
• Assist the FD Team in day-to-day activities

Reporting to the Fund Development Team, assist in reaching out to potential donors, sponsors and partners via email and/or phone to support fundraising campaigns.   

• research into potential donors, partners and sponsors for financial and/or in-kind donations
• initiate and maintain communication through email and phone
• effectively convey CCD's mission, values adn fundraising goals
• provide information and encourage participation
• provide the FD Team regular updates on outreach activities and progress
• report any feedback, concerns or opportunities for improvement to campaign strategies

Write friendly, personal letters in Italian to senior citizens in aged care homes and programs. Spread joy to someone in their native language!

• Demonstrate empathy and kindness, connect with elders and help them realize that they are special and appreciated.

• Supply your own stationery and ensure adequate postage to mail your letters, or arrange to hand-deliver them.

• Your words will be read and cherished by elders who likely won’t have the physical ability or resources to respond to you.

• This is a remote opportunity. You’ll volunteer from home on your own schedule as your own pace.

Get started whenever you're ready by registering on our website as an individual, student, or group. We offer a program for students and student clubs requesting verification of their letters for community service credit.

Support museum programs and activies by assisting with wayfinding, crafts and activities, building interpretation, and setup/take down.  

We need volunteers work in pairs for a 2-hour shift * you can choose as many or as few shifts as you like * all Charity Bingo Volunteers receive a comprehensive one-hour orientation which is done online at a time convenient for you.

Volunteers needed to exercise their expertise in the following areas:

• receive and sort donations
• greet and help assist customers 
• cashier duties
• electronics/small appliance fixer and tester
• put together creative, pleasing displays
• handyman around the building 
• clean and price items for the following departments:  housewares, books, jewellery, sports, furniture, clothing, shoes, linens, purses and luggage, toys, electronics and high-end collectables/sports memorabelia

• Promoting our programs and workshops on social networks and monitor engagement (e.g. comments and shares)
• Creating and distributing marketing copy to advertise our projects
• Writing blog posts about our inititatives and events 
• Ultimately, you will help us reach our target audience by delivering both useful and appealing online information regarding our events, workshops and programs.
• Identify community needs and recomend new topics

Requirements:

• A student involved in the above areas of study, seeking to get hands on experience

   Or:

• Anyone with experience and a willingness to get involved with community work.

The links below will provide more information on our organization:

Instagram:
https://instagram.com/theculturalempowermentproject?utm_source=qr&igshid=MzNlNGNkZWQ4Mg%3D%3D

Committee members take ownership of fundraising and contribute significantly to TCEP corporate sponsorship, personal giving, fundraising events and other campaigns. They leverage personal or professional networks, practice event planning skills, and help get people excited about healthy wholesome food! The committee convenes once every 4 to 6 weeks, and members are expected to attend at least 75% of those meetings.

 We believe that food has the power to bring people together!

The links below will provide more information on our organization:

Instagram:
https://instagram.com/theculturalempowermentproject?utm_source=qr&igshid=MzNlNGNkZWQ4Mg%3D%3D

We are looking for interested and committed Board Members to work with us to help bring a low-cost, Spay/Neuter Clinic to Durham Region.

Groom * feed and care for animals * clean stables and stalls * lead small animals

Under supervision feed horses * clean stalls, tack, saddle pads, blankets and water buckets daily * sweep stables and hay barn

If you have a special volunteer interest, please specify

The links below will provide more information on our organization:

Instagram:
https://instagram.com/theculturalempowermentproject?utm_source=qr&igshid=MzNlNGNkZWQ4Mg%3D%3D

Actively listen to survivors of sexual violence who are struggling. Provide grounding, check-ins, community resources and appropriate information to clients * connect with staff for support or debriefing * attend monthly volunteer meetings * Submit call logs * complete a 6 session (18 hour) volunteer training
 
Calls will be made from your personal phone (cell phone or home phone) while blocking your number * minimum 1 year commitment to the centre

Visit one-on-one with a resident * listen, chat and enjoy some time together

·       Interacting with the public while providing great customer service. Merchandising and staging of furniture donations.

·       eCommerce: product research for price and key selling points, measure dimensions, photography, and minor touch up of items to support our new online platform.

·       Tasks may include customer service, product display, pricing, assembly, and repair

• Due to the physical nature of some of the tasks required, ReStore volunteers may be asked to lift heavy objects (bathroom fixtures, windows, doors, etc.)
• Assembling furniture and some restoration of various donations.
• Able to lift 10-20 pounds and be on your feet for several hours at a time.
• Volunteers are required to wear CSA approved green label safety shoes, some at store to borrow for volunteer shift

·       Come with a willingness to learn from experienced volunteers and staff and to work as part of a team. A positive attitude, enthusiasm, flexibility, and a sense of humour is always key! Tasks are not always glamorous, so be prepared to do a variety of things.

Attend all necessary Habitat GTA training sessions, provide on the job training and supervision for semi-skilled and unskilled volunteers * lead a group of volunteers, including homeowners, in the construction of simple, decent, affordable homes while upholding standards of safety, quality, and fun * assist in providing a safe and healthy working environment such as: use of equipment, personal protective equipment for volunteers, delegating work, maintaining a suitable working environment including preparing for weather, cleaning, tasks, etc. * ensure necessary tools are on the site for specific tasks and supervision of clean up, returning of tools and excess materials * have an understanding of the construction process; work in various phases of construction including framing, roofing, dry walling, etc. * have an understanding of the construction process; work in various phases of construction including framing, roofing, etc. * crew members perform tasks that require a level of skill and need to have the ability to quickly assess the abilities of volunteers. The Crew must be able to teach crew members proper construction techniques, answer their questions, show patience.

Assist shoppers purchase new and gently-used womens, mens and childrens clothing * ensure tidiness of store * set up and take down displays * handle cash * sort clothing donations * promote, be able to talk to customers about Bethesda House

Actively recruiting volunteers 
 
Engage a resident in activities and conversation, one to one * participate in activities of personal interest and ability

Able to learn to use construction tools and equipment with training and supervision * ability to lift 20-30lbs * aAssist in providing a safe and healthy working environment * come with a willingness to learn from experienced volunteers and staff and to work as part of a team * positive attitude, enthusiasm, flexibility and a sense of humour is always key! Tasks are not always glamourous, so be prepared to do a variety of things.

Assist at food bank * sort food donations and pack food bags for clients * gather and pack frozen meat, produce and dairy bags for clients.

Volunteer Board Members Welcome

FOOTPRINTS 4 Autism is a nonprofit registered charity serving Durham Region. We offer respite and recreational programs for families with children and youth on the autism spectrum.  We are currently growing from a Steering Committee to a Governance Board, and looking for new members to join our Board.

We need Board members in the following areas: Marketing, Communications, Fund Development, Finance and Secretary. For a 2-year commitment.

Board meetings are held once-a-month in Whitby. We have a virtual option as well. Members can choose roles in Marketing & Communications, Fund Development, Finance, Human Resources and ad-hoc Project sub-committees.

These roles can be rewarding to anyone from lawyers, insurance agents, marketing and advertising to accountants, fundraisers, administration, and community minded people, to name a few.  

Interested in volunteering?  We would love to hear from you.  Please send resume to:

chair@footprints4autism.org

Have questions?  Call Sandra at 905-420-0388   ext. 1

one-to-one or group volunteer opportunities available

• Palliative Care Volunteer
• Grief & Bereavement Volunteer
• Fundraising Initiatives, Events and Community Awareness Volunteer
• Administrative Support Volunteer
• VON DHS Community Corporation (VON CC)

We have current openings for Child/Youth Volunteers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) children 4-13 yrs. old)

2 shifts per month (approx. 8 hr. commitment)

Saturday Only.  Mornings- 8:45 am-12:45 pm and afternoons- 1:15pm to 5:15pm

What would your typical day look like?

·         set up area prior to children arriving

·         Provide one on one supervision – a volunteer with one ASD child.

·         Helping the child choose their activities and develop socialization skills through fun learning.

·         After the session: Clean up and sanitize toys, debrief.

Ideal for high school students interested in working with ASD or adults with ASD children or have an interest in working with ASD, gaining experience for post-secondary students including ECE, Social Work/Service, Psychology students, Teachers for example.

What can I expect from being a FOOTPRINTS Volunteer?

Volunteering with ASD children is a contribution to the community and one of the most rewarding experiences. 

** We provide complete training to our volunteers including Level C CPR/First Aid.

You bring a sense of happiness to an autistic child and real-life experience working with ASD children, while gaining team building and leadership skills.  If you are a high school student going into post-secondary or a college or university student, volunteering with FOOTPRINTS builds industry recognized experience on your resume.  As an adult volunteer your impact on an ASD child’s life is immeasurable.

Email Michele at volunteer@footprints4autism.org today!

Visit us at footprints4autism.org

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS provide safe, reliable transportation for children, youth and families to/from
appointments , family visits, school and camp.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES
• Provide local and long distance transportation for children.
• Abide by the rules of the road and all driving/automobile related laws.
• Properly use child restraints, according to current standards.
• Follow all policies and procedures related to volunteer driving as outlined in Volunteer Services.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE & SKILL REQUIREMENT
• Driver’s abstract must be submitted prior to commencing as a Volunteer Driver and will be completed
on an annual basis.
• Must have and maintain a mechanically sound and safe vehicle at all times
• Must have, and maintain, a minimum of $1,000,000 liability insurance.
• Adherence to mandatory seatbelt and child restraint regulations.
• Experience with children an asset.
•Reliability, flexibility, patience and confidentiality are all required.
•Must have a good driving record, acceptable police check and driver’s abstract.
•Must have a valid G driver’s license at all times

VOLUNTEER SECREENING
To become an approved volunteer with the Society, all applicants must complete the
screening process. Acceptance will be based on the results of this process.

• Volunteers must be 18 years or older.
• Volunteers must live or work in the Durham Region.
• Applicants will attend an information session in a group or individually.
• Applicants will complete an application form.
• An internal Society records check will be completed to determine any Society involvement.
• A provincial records check will be completed within the Child Protection Information Network (CPIN)
• Applicants will provide the names of three references and references will be deemed favourable. Manager, Communications & Community Relations has the discretion to approve an applicant with 2 references completed and deemed favourable.
• Applicants will provide a Criminal Records Check with Vulnerable Sector screening
• Applicants will provide proof of a valid driver’s license and a favorable driver’s abstract from the Ministry of Transportation when an assignment involves transporting children, youth and families.
• Applicants will be interviewed by the Coordinator of Volunteer Services to determine their suitability as a volunteer.
• Applicants will provide a Release of Information to contact other Children’s Aid Societies when there has been involvement or if they have resided outside of the Region for the last 10 years.
• Applicants will attend and complete New Volunteer Training
• Applicants must sign an Oath of Confidentiality
• Applicants will sign the Volunteer Agreement
• The applicant will be notified when they have been either approved or denied.

Get involved at one of the locations of Oshawa Senior Community Centres 55+ * many volunteer opportunities to choose from * administration, committee member * support services, education, community relations * recreation, special projects, fundraising, virtual volunteering 
 
Click here to fill in an OSCC Volunteer Application Form

 Support the visitors' program experience by assisting with crafts and activities, way finding, building interpretation, setup/take down.  

Provide excellent customer service to all Whitby Courthouse Theatre patrons in roles such as ushering, concessions sales, ticket scanners, etc.

Facilitate Go Girls, program for girls 10-14 to learn about food and nutrition * provide guidance, attention, praise, and advice to instill trust and self-confidence * promote the importance of staying in school and healthy relationships with family and peers

Assist with special event fundraisers * sponsorship recruitment * donor relations, stewardship * marketing, communications 
 
During the Covid-19 pandemic, though we have fewer volunteer opportunities than usual, we are still accepting full volunteer applications

Receive and sort baby clothes, baby gear, food, maternity clothes, etc. that is donated to us from our community * help young parents with their share and care room appointments and assist them while "shopping" by helping with their children and helping them find things, etc. 

Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA) has volunteer and non-paid work experience opportunities for a variety of volunteers such as secondary and post-secondary students,  corporate opportunities,  festival events (Durham Children's Watershed Festival and Purple Woods Maple Syrup Festival) and the Conservation Area Trail Stewards (CATS) program. 

*Ensure new adoption centre volunteer applications are responded to*schedule orientations for potential new volunteers as well as shadow shifts*ensure new volunteers are given appropriate training materials*add volunteers to our volunteer chat or google groups*send volunteer information to administrator for database*schedule volunteers as appropriate*send out emails as appropriate and needed to volunteer group, new policies, open shifts*outline expectations for adoption centre volunteers* liase with adoption coordinator at location re issues