Volunteer Opportunities in Calgary

Most of our seniors are on a tight fixed income and access to nutritious and affordable food is a challenge for many. Eating well becomes even tougher when physical mobility declines with age and illness, and therefore shopping and cooking are not always possible. This role is a wonderful opportunity to support food security while making a practical and meaningful difference in the lives of seniors in your community. The Food Security Program Driver is a volunteer who helps collect donated food from participating grocery stores through the Second Harvest program and deliver it to tenants in Calgary Heritage Housing buildings. Volunteer drivers follow a scheduled route, collect food donations, and transport them safely to an assigned building. Depending on the location, drivers may also work with tenant volunteers to move donations inside and arrange items for distribution. Detailed pick-up, delivery, parking, and building access instructions will be provided in advance. This is a great opportunity to do with friends and family, or towards required volunteer hours for school. For example, youth can sign up as the main volunteer and have a parent do the driving. Access to a reliable vehicle is required, as well as the ability to lift boxes or bins with food (approximately 2 to 15 lbs each).Volunteers will be appreciated for their time through our recognition and awards program and also:• Help ensure donated food reaches tenants and make a meaningful contribution to food security for seniors in your community. • Build connections with tenants, volunteers, local grocery partners, and the Calgary Heritage Housing team. • Enjoy a practical volunteer role that gets you out into the community. • Have your time logged for volunteering requirements or reference letters.For more information please email: chh.le@chhousing.ca To apply: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/Ph2ykCLMFY

Canada Connects is a volunteer program aimed at helping refugees arriving to Calgary integrate into the community by matching them with well-established local volunteers. The program supports government-assisted refugees in adjusting to life in Calgary by fostering connections with the client for a period of 4-12 months.Volunteer activities:Explore the community together, introducing newcomers to local resources, organizations, and share experiences about living in CalgaryEngage in cultural exchange, discussing various aspects of life in Canada and the newcomer's home countryProvide information on Canadian customs, culture, and societySpend leisure time with newcomers, engaging in activities and participate in and encourage attendance at fun, free events throughout the city or those organized by CCIS and partnersProvide moral support and encouragementFacilitate informal English language practiceRequirements:Meet with matched newcomer(s) for at least 4-8 hours per month for at least 4-12 monthsEach match is supervised by an assigned Canada Connects Program Facilitator who will support both the volunteer and the newcomer, helping to establish a successful relationship and provide guidance along the wayThe program requires a minimum commitment of 4 hours per month for 4 months to 1 yearThe initial meeting takes place at the client's home under the supervisions of the Program Facilitator. Subsequent meetings can take place in the client’s home or any agreed upon location in the communityQualification:Must be over the age of 18Must have lived in Calgary for 3-5 yearsA desire to get involved and make a positive impactLong term Canadian or settled immigrantsFlexibility, cultural sensitivity, and excellent communication and interpersonal skillsSuccessful completion of a police check is required (paid by CCIS)Creative problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to challengesBenefits of the program:Gain experience with other cultures and countries while developing cultural sensitivity, flexibility, adaptability, and enhancing cross-cultural communication skillsAttend a variety of training sessions and learn new skills.Network with other volunteersGain satisfaction from supporting those in need within the community.Volunteers will gain work experience in a Canadian workplaceReference may be provided upon completion of minimum requirements, at the discretion of the assigned Program FacilitatorIf you think this opportunity may be great for you, please contact a program manager - Beata Lutaba at blutaba@ccisab.ca/Direct Line: 403.290.5752

From November 19 to December 24, we’ll need an amazing team of volunteers in a variety of roles to help bring the Calgary Winter Market to life! If you’d like to get involved, meet new people, and become a part of Calgary’s newest holiday tradition, we’d love to have you join us!We have multiple oppertunities;Guest Experience- Information, Ticket sales, public safetyProgramming - Stage assistants, talent coordination, kids areaFood & Hospitality- drink and food service, mug sales, brauhaus tentVendors- Vendor Support and AssistanceOperations- Event Set-up, decor, fire pits, first aid, site manager assistantsApply on our website below!https://calgarywintermarket.ca/pages/volunteers