Understanding Volunteerism

Who can volunteer?

If you are looking for something fun to do, learn about Canadian culture, integrate into the community, develop a pastime, utilize your skills or more, you can volunteer!

There is no restriction to participation.

What volunteering can do for your:

• Meet new people
• Build strong social networks
• Participate in community activities
• Gain experience in your field of expertise
• Gain Canadian reference and work experience
• Challenge yourself and learn new skills
• Develop conversation skills
• Learn about Canadian culture

What volunteering is not:

• A paid position
• Job training leading directly to a paid position
• Replacement for paid work
• Internship or practicum
• Wasting time

How do I volunteer?

• Decide on what type of volunteer opportunity you want.
• Do research using volunteer-matching websites, friends and family, and community resources.
• Pick your 3 favourite opportunities.
• Contact the organizations directly to apply.
• Be patient. It takes time to get started, but the
• experience will be worth it.

Where can I volunteer?

Listed below are some volunteer matching websites for you to find enjoyable and meaningful opportunities.

Volunteer Matching
www.getinvolved.ca

Canadian Volunteer Directory
www.canadian-universities.net/Volunteer

Go Volunteer
www.govolunteer.ca

Propellus
www.propellus.org