Volunteers are people from all walks of life, all ages and stages. What they have in common is the desire to make a difference in their community – and in their own life – by giving of their time and expertise.
Explore this site and discover how you can become part of a movement that is almost 12 million volunteers strong! Learn how you can make a difference in the lives of others. Search Volunteer Opportunities gives you the information you need to find a volunteer position that is right for you.
Volunteers are involved in virtually every aspect of society including health, education, social services, youth, sports and recreation, culture, the arts and the environment. Some volunteers give just one hour of time each week; others devote many hours. Volunteers are involved in one-time events as well as ongoing commitments. Some choose to volunteer out in the community whereas others are virtual volunteers and do their volunteering from the comfort of home.
Volunteers can work on their own or with others, do hands-on work or volunteer at an administrative or leadership level.
Volunteers play a vital role in our Community. Volunteers are engaged in delivering services and programs that improve and enhance the life of our communities.
Volunteers are people just like you.
Principles of Volunteering
Volunteering benefits the community and the volunteer.
Volunteer work is unpaid.
Volunteering is always a matter of choice.
Volunteering is a legitimate way in which citizens can participate in the activities of their community.
Volunteering is a vehicle for individuals or groups to address human, environmental and social needs.
Volunteering is an activity performed in the not profit sector only.
Volunteering is not a substitute for paid work.
Volunteers do not replace paid workers nor constitute a threat to the job security of paid workers.
Volunteering respects the rights, dignity and culture of others. Volunteering promotes human rights and equality
Benefits of Volunteering
- Make important networking contacts
- Learn or develop skills
- Gain work experience
- Build self-esteem and self-confidence
- Improve health
- Help you meet new people
- Feel needed and valued
- Make a difference in someone’s life
- Express gratitude for help you may have received in the past from an organization