Volunteer Opportunities in Calgary

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 challenges Benefits 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

Position: Graphic Designer (UI/UX) Volunteer– Social Media App Protecting Kids Online!Organization: DEFEND (Nonprofit) and 65square Location: Remote (Work from anywhere)About UsJoin DEFEND, a 100% volunteer-run international nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing risks for children and vulnerable individuals online. We are developing 65square, a groundbreaking social media app designed to protect kids and vulnerable users in the digital space. Currently, our Alpha app design is 70% complete, and we’re seeking talented Graphic Designers (UI/UX) to support our team in bringing this vital project to life.This is a volunteer opportunity to create meaningful work that contributes to online safety and could evolve into a paid position in the future.Key ResponsibilitiesCollaborate with the design team to finalize the UI/UX for the 65square Alpha app.Develop intuitive, user-centered designs for web and mobile platforms.Create visually appealing interfaces while maintaining a consistent brand identity.Conduct usability testing and incorporate feedback to improve designs.Contribute to brainstorming sessions and provide creative input for design challenges.Support existing team members who are fatigued to maintain project momentum.QualificationsProven experience in UI/UX design or relevant education in graphic/web design.Proficiency with design tools such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or similar platforms.Strong understanding of user-centered design principles and best practices.Experience designing for web and mobile platforms.Excellent communication and teamwork skills.Passion for social good and creating safer online spaces is a bonus!How to Apply: If you are interested in joining our team, please send your resume and a brief cover letter to hr@helpusdefend.com. Join us in making the internet a safer place!

About UsDEFEND is a volunteer-run nonprofit dedicated to protecting children and other vulnerable people online. Our mission is to reduce online risks through education and technology to create safer digital spaces.Job DescriptionWe’re looking for Team Leads and Support Members to join the Social Media Team. In this role, you’ll contribute by creating graphics, researching, and collaborating with various teams to produce engaging social media posts, design visuals, and contribute to newsletters like “The Voice of the Vulnerable.”Team Leads will oversee the team’s workflow, coordinate cross-team efforts, and ensure timely content delivery, while Support Members will focus on research, drafting posts, and executing creative tasks. Your contributions will be essential in ensuring DEFEND’s messaging is accurate, impactful, and timely.ResponsibilitiesSocial Media Team LeadOversee the Social Media Team, run meetings, and report progress to DEFEND leadership.Ensure that all content created aligns with DEFEND’s goals and messaging standards.Work with other DEFEND teams to gather accurate, timely information for posts.Address and resolve issues within the team to maintain smooth operations.Social Media Team Support MemberUse Canva (Premium account provided) to design engaging social media graphics.Conduct research and create meaningful, accurate posts based on team input.Assist with tasks assigned by the team lead and collaborate to ensure deadlines are met.Work with various DEFEND teams to gather information and create content for events, initiatives, or newsletters.QualificationsAbility to convey messages clearly and collaborate effectively with others.Focus on creating accurate, high-quality posts and visuals.Understanding of social media best practices for platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.Familiarity with Canva is an asset, but training will be provided.Strong leadership and organizational skills for running meetings and managing team progress.Enthusiasm for protecting children and creating safer online environments.How to Apply: If you are interested in joining our team, please send your resume and a brief cover letter to hr@helpusdefend.com.

About UsDEFEND is a volunteer-run nonprofit dedicated to protecting children and other vulnerable people online. Our mission is to reduce online risks through education and technology to create safer digital spaces.Job Description As a Unity Developer or 3D Modeler, you will work closely with our Unity Team to design and build interactive, user-focused elements for the 65square platform. This role involves developing 3D assets, coding in Unity, and collaborating with other teams to create a cohesive, engaging app that aligns with DEFEND’s mission. This is a great opportunity for individuals passionate about gaming, 3D modeling, and online safety to contribute to a meaningful project.ResponsibilitiesUnderstand and adapt to the unique needs of the 65square platform and DEFEND’s mission.Design and model 3D assets to enhance the app’s interactive, game-like experience.Write and develop code in the Unity engine to create interactive features and user-driven elements.Assist in creating and managing development plans, coordinating with other developers to build a robust core system.Regularly meet with other DEFEND and 65square teams (on a flexible schedule) to brainstorm ideas and develop content aligned with the project’s goals.QualificationsBackground in using Unity for game or app development.Knowledge of 3D modeling software and design techniques; experience in asset creation is a plus.Familiarity with C# or other relevant languages for Unity development.Ability to think creatively and bring new ideas to enhance user interactivity.Comfortable working as part of a team and open to feedback.Available to volunteer 3-5 hours per week, with an interest in potentially transitioning to a paid role as the project evolves.How to Apply: If you are interested in joining our team, please send your resume and a brief cover letter to hr@helpusdefend.com.

Between Friends provides quality social, recreational, and developmental opportunities so that people with disabilities can Connect, Grow, and Belong.We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join our Summer W.E.S.O.A.R! Programs! These in-person programs run once a week, on weekdays.You’ll be supporting participants with disabilities in fun, engaging activities like weekly swimming, trying new bars, jumping at Flying Squirrel, and so much more. Volunteers work alongside our Program Leaders to ensure participants feel safe, included, and have a great time.🕒 Time CommitmentRuns once per week Tuesday - Sunday (May change in the summer)Summer: October 4 - December 13Each session is between 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM, depending on the programYou can volunteer for multiple programs per weekConsistency is key – volunteers are expected to attend every scheduled session✨ You Might Be a Great Fit If You Are:Fun – You bring joy and energy to everyday experiencesIntentional – You act with purpose and clarity, even under pressureCaring – You lead with empathy and celebrate othersEaseful – You help create accessible, inclusive environmentsSafe – You value emotional and physical safety for everyone✅ Volunteer RequirementsMust be 16+ years oldComplete a Police Check (instructions provided)Have reliable transportationBe comfortable assisting with:Personal careSupporting medication administrationBring an inclusive mindset and eagerness to learnBe a team player and problem solverCommunicate with staff and leaders using SlackComplete an application through Better ImpactExperience working with people with disabilities is an asset, but not required