SEND SMILES AND SUNSHINE: BECOME A VOLUNTEER LETTER-WRITER TODAY!
Are you passionate about spreading joy and brightening someone's day? Do you enjoy writing friendly letters and want to join a virtual project? Are you looking for a team project or a meaningful event activity? Become a volunteer and make a meaningful difference for seniors in care homes and programs locally and across Canada.
WHAT WE DO
We’re a volunteer-run organization sending cheerful, personal, one-of-a-kind handwritten letters to seniors in Canada, the US, the UK and Australia. Since April 2020, we’ve delivered joy in over 30 languages worldwide!
WHAT WE OFFER
➙ A chance to brighten a senior’s day.
➙ Flexible volunteering from anywhere, anytime, year-round.
➙ Community service hour verification for students (separate registration required).
➙ Tips for writing meaningful letters.
➙ An inclusive environment welcoming all ages and abilities.
IMPORTANT DETAILS FOR VOLUNTEERS
➙ Write friendly, one-of-a-kind letters addressed to a “Friend.”
➙ Mail your letters to our partner facilities.
➙ Commit to a destination facility only after your letters are ready to mail.
➙ Facilities list refreshes every two weeks with new requests.
➙ Expenses include postage, writing materials, and envelopes (send multiple letters in one envelope to save on postage).
➙ Not a pen pal program—most seniors cannot reply.
➙ LAI has no staff, physical office or phone.
 Please email volunteer Lindsay for support.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
➙ Commit to writing letters regularly. Quality over quantity.
➙ Share personal stories to make your letters unique.
➙ Avoid sensitive topics like religion, health, politics and holidays.
➙ Focus on positivity and connection.
➙ Write in English or 30+ other languages, including Arabic, Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Greek, Italian, Portuguese or Russian.
➙ Handcrafted cards are welcome but not required. Your handwritten message matters most!
➙ Organize group letter-writing activities or events with friends, coworkers, schools or libraries.
➙ Spread the word to friends, family and local senior centers.
➙ Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram.
WHY VOLUNTEER WITH US
➙ Send smiles to seniors who may be feeling isolated or lonely.
➙ Be part of a compassionate, inclusive community.
➙ Experience the satisfaction of knowing your words make a difference.
GET STARTED
➙ Visit https://www.lettersagainstisolation.com/ and choose INDIVIDUAL, GROUP, EDUCATOR or STUDENT registration.
➙ Students seeking service credit: Review our guidelines, complete the student registration form and submit photos of your letters for verification. Earn one hour of credit for every four approved letters.
➙ Contact Lindsay if you have any questions.
Join us in spreading kindness and smiles to senior citizens. Your words will make all the difference!

EmpowHER is a dynamic leadership and mentorship program designed to equip young women and LGBTQ2+ individuals (ages 12–30) with the skills, networks, and opportunities to excel in their chosen fields. This hybrid program (both virtual and in-person) provides hands-on experiences with civic action.

EmpowHER is open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and protected refugees who are passionate about civic engagement and making a meaningful impact in their communities. Participants will engage in real-world projects, leadership training, and mentorship opportunities that foster growth and empowerment.

Are you 13-18 years old? Do you care about the environment? Join ER Teens: a remote & flexible volunteer program! Earth Rangers is looking for teens across Canada to get involved in environmental action, wherever you live. Our ER Teens program lets you volunteer for the environment by doing an eco-action project of your choice. We’ll help you complete an initiative that makes a difference and helps you develop skills in leadership, communication, and time management. You’ll earn volunteer hours, meet new people, and get a certificate and recognition! Plus it’s totally flexible around your schedule! How it works: 1. Sign up for ER Teens on our website 2. Connect with a Coordinator via Zoom, email, or text 3. Plan a project idea together, or use one of our guides 4. Complete your project with support whenever needed 5. Chat with other participants and professionals over Zoom and group chats 6. Finish your project with a debrief, and celebrate! What kind of projects can you do? Anything to help the environment! - Host collection drives or swaps to reduce waste - Fundraise for one of our wildlife conservation partners - Educate younger kids with eco-activities - Use art or multimedia to raise awareness for an issue - Start or expand your school’s eco-club with Earth Rangers ER Teens is here to support you every step of the way! Ready to get started? Email erteens@earthrangers.com for more info, or sign up here.
Check out our website & Instagram! Can’t wait to meet you! BTW these projects look great on resumes and post-secondary applications :)

Are you passionate about nature and interested in growing the urban forest? Join the LEAF volunteer community by attending this Orientation!

During this interactive virtual session, you will learn how to support your local environment by getting involved with LEAF programs in Toronto, York Region and Durham Region!

We have many volunteer opportunities available to choose from. Whether you’re looking to get your hands dirty at a community tree planting, educate the public at local outreach events, photograph the fun at a tree tour or assist behind the scenes – we have something for everyone! 

Please use one of the links below to register for a virtual orientation to learn how to get involved:

      March 8 Virtual Volunteer Orientation (11:00am to 12:00pm)         March 25 Virtual Volunteer Orientation (6:30pm to 7:30pm)

Please note that volunteers must be at least 18 years of age.

Registrants will be provided a Zoom Meeting link to access the orientation.

The event will be delivered online and can be accessed through a web browser or an electronic device with the Zoom app. Internet access is required. For accessibility questions, please contact Natasha[at]yourleaf.org

This event is supported by Ontario Power Generation.

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

TCEP is all about GOOD food, so we depend on the culinary skills of Durham area chefs to help make sure all our food programs are as delicious as possible. Volunteer Chefs may support cooking classes, feature at a dinner event, or support event food.

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

We will provide more information on specifics regarding how often you’ll be needed including dates and times. 

The links below will provide more information on our organization:

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

TCEP hosts both public and private special events including receptions and seated dinners. Event Support volunteers will assist with event preparation including cleaning the facility, decorating, setting tables/​moving furniture, and promoting (if applicable). Skilled Event Support volunteers may also assist at an event to either host, serve tables, do dishes, or tend the juice bar – depending on volunteer training and event requirements.

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

Volunteer Food Educators support the TCEP staff team in delivering food literacy programs at our food education center and around the community. Food educators may supervise and assist in cooking activities, lead group discussions, and participate in all other aspects of program delivery from set-up to clean-up. Volunteer food educators are also welcome to contribute to program planning to ensure our curriculum contains exciting activities, and promote food system sustainability.

 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

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

TCEP is looking for an enthusiastic person to provide support with organizing and starting a garden including helping with ongoing garden maintenance. As well as offer educational programs in the garden. Our aim is to offer quality fresh foods to the community whenever possible.

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

If you speak more than one language we would love to have you become part of this exciting venture!  

·         If you’re interested in volunteering for any position and you have other language skills that’s wonderful!

·         However, we would still need your language abilities even if you’re not volunteering for another position.

So, please reach out to us!

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

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

General volunteers do a variety of tasks including food service * dispensing pantry goods * monitoring washrooms * coat check * and various other odd jobs.

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!

https://www.thedenisehouse.com/Public/Shared_Content/Public/News-and-Events/Careers-and-Volunteer-Positions.aspx?hkey=b759aa6a-d9fb-4ad6-91a9-2ab19dc9f247

Searching for community volunteer opportunities? We are recruiting!

The Denise House Board of Directors is currently recruiting individuals with strong governance experience to join our Board.

While a variety of backgrounds are needed, we are seeking an individual for the position of Treasurer with strong experience in Finance. Communication and Strategic Thinking skills are additional significant assets for the Board role.

The Denise House board members provide governance and oversight on organizational matters, ultimately guiding key strategic decisions.  This ensures The Denise House continues its vital work, now and into the future, of providing safety and support for women and their children experiencing violence and abuse. Alignment with our vision, mission and values is of utmost importance. Please go to https://www.thedenisehouse.com to learn more about us.

Board members meet on the second Wednesday of every month for regular monthly board meetings, participate in one to two committees of their choice, and are involved in fundraising efforts where possible. Currently board meetings and other engagements are being held virtually with success.

 We trust you will find several benefits of becoming a Board member with The Denise House:

· The opportunity to make an impact in your community
· The chance to work with an open, transparent and progressive organization that wants your input and ideas
· Personal and professional growth
· Networking with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and diverse experiences
· Advocating for issues that can truly make a difference in someone’s life

In an effort to encourage diversity and growth, we welcome all genders and interested candidates.

Please email your interest c/o

Sandra McCormack, Executive Director

smccormack@thedenisehouse.com

 Over 100 municipalities in Ontario have declared intimate partner violence an epidemic. We hope that this sends a loud message to women silently suffering that they are acknowledged and heard, and that the community is working to build and improve resources so that they can improve their lives. These declarations are important, but we must continue to speak out for appropriate resources and laws that will protect women, so our work is not finished.

The Peer Support Volunteer plays a vital role in providing compassionate, empathetic support to individuals and families who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss. Volunteers offer a listening ear, shared understanding, and companionship on the grief journey, creating a safe space for bereaved individuals to express their feelings, share memories, and receive validation from someone who “gets it.” By joining our team, you’ll help ensure that no one has to grieve alone.

Responsibilities:

• Provide emotional support through one-on-one phone calls, online meetings, or in-person (as appropriate) to individuals who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss.
• Listen actively, showing empathy and compassion, and creating a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to share their grief.
• Share your own experiences in a supportive and respectful manner, when appropriate, to help normalize and validate the individual’s feelings.
• Support participants in finding resources and encourage self-care practices that align with their unique grief journey.
• Communicate and collaborate with PAIL Network staff, sharing updates as needed while respecting the privacy and confidentiality of participants.
• Complete initial and ongoing training to enhance skills, including workshops on grief, trauma-informed care, and cultural sensitivity.

Qualifications:

• Personal experience with pregnancy or infant loss and a desire to support others going through similar experiences.
• Excellent listening and communication skills, with the ability to provide empathetic, non-judgmental support.
• Respect for confidentiality and boundaries, with an understanding of the importance of privacy in peer support relationships.
• Ability to commit to regular volunteer sessions, showing reliability and consistency.
• Willingness to participate in training, supervision, and support meetings as needed.

Training and Support:

• Comprehensive training on topics such as grief, trauma-informed care, effective communication, and cultural sensitivity.
• Ongoing support from PAIL Network staff and access to additional training opportunities.
• Regular check-ins and debriefing sessions to support volunteers in their role.

If you have experienced pregnancy or infant loss and feel called to support others on their grief journey, we encourage you to apply. By sharing your understanding, compassion, and empathy, you can help ensure that bereaved individuals know they are not alone.

The Katimavik National Experience challenges young people to make a positive impact in each of the communities while also developing a vast set of skills and competencies. The program brings together 11 young, diverse adults who share and manage a Katimavik house while living and doing meaningful volunteer work in two different communities. Throughout 22 weeks, participants are very busy and can expect to participate fully in the following: 

• Volunteering 32 hours a week at local non-profit organizations; 

• Learning about Indigenous peoples in Canada and engaging in meaningful truth and reconciliation initiatives; 

• Team building and collaboration; 

• Designing and implementing community projects; 

• Managing all aspects of the Katimavik house, including daily meal preparation; 

• Plan cultural discovery, group outings and fun activities during evenings and weekends. 

Katimavik National Experience is a fully funded, all expenses related to participation in the program are covered, including transportation to and from the communities, group activities, housing, and meals. Katimavik is funded by the Government of Canada through its Canada Service Corps initiative. 

Katimavik aims to help youth become engaged, caring citizens and capable contributors and leaders for a better Canada. We do this through the development of 21st century skills, experiential learning, and civic engagement. 

The National Experience is open to all young people aged 17-25 years old. Participants must be a Canadian citizen or be able to demonstrate that they are legally residing in Canada. 

Program cohorts start every January and July of each year.

To Apply, please visit our website https://katimavik.org/en/programs/national-experience/

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

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

Purpose of the role

JA Central Ontario is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to support students through JA Events. JA engages volunteers from the local business community to add value to the student experience by sharing industry insights and expertise. If you’re passionate about helping youth in your community, this opportunity will be a valuable volunteer experience!

How it works

Joining a JA educational event, you'll share your career journey and experiences with student participants. During these events, students in grades 9-12 will hear from a range of speakers from a whole host of industries and backgrounds. You'll share your stories, outline your career path and answer student questions. This is a fantastic opportunity to inspire young people as they are thinking about their futures.

What do you wish you had known in high school? What advice would you give to your younger self? What is the most exciting thing about the world of work? Help students answer these questions and much more by volunteering with JA Central Ontario!

You will have the option of attending either a virtual or in-person event.

About JA Central Ontario

Here at JA Central Ontario, we prepare youth for life, for meaningful work and for an opportunity to do good in the world. We help young people go from saying ‘I can’t’ to ‘I can’ through our immersive, digitally-enabled learning experiences. Students learn practical skills like budgeting, saving and starting a business - but they also learn adaptability, creativity, problem-solving and a host of interpersonal tools too. They also meet industry experts and mentors - adult allies who can help them envision their future. We’re all about skill building – minus sleeping through the boring parts. Because with JA, there are no boring parts.

A Central Ontario is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to support students through JA's signature learning experience, Company Program.

JA Company Program Advisors inspire a new generation to dream big and reach their goals. This unique learning experience that empowers young people in grades 9-12 with the skills, connections and confidence to build something incredible - a business, a community and a bright future.

Company Program is a hands-on entrepreneurial experience for high school students. As a team, students are guided through innovation processes and design thinking. Together with peers and mentors, they produce a prototype, product or service, organize the production and marketing, interact with customers, handle money, and meet deadlines. Company Program combines in-person after-school meetings, online learning and exciting events.

How it works
Working alongside a team of business professionals, advisors act as mentors, role models and facilitators to a group of 10-20 high school students during an 18-week entrepreneurial journey to create, run and liquidate a business.

Over 18 weeks, Advisors support teams of students as they create a company, choose a product or service and run their very own business. You will meet with your team once a week for 2-3 hours, after school, at a specified location.

Program Summary:
In-Person: The program will be running in-person across Central Ontario.
Number of advisors: Each advising team will consist of 1 to 2 lead advisors and 3 or more advisors.
Number of students: With your advising team, you will be supporting a team of 10 to 20 high school students. You will be mentoring the same group of students for the entirety of the program.
One business: The group of students you work with will come up with one business to create and run over 18 weeks.
Curriculum: Resources, training and support for all volunteers are provided by the JA Central Ontario Company Program team.

About JA Central Ontario
Here at JA Central Ontario, we prepare youth for life, for meaningful work and for an opportunity to do good in the world. We help young people go from saying ‘I can’t’ to ‘I can’ through our immersive, digitally-enabled learning experiences. Students learn practical skills like budgeting, saving and starting a business - but they also learn adaptability, creativity, problem-solving and a host of interpersonal tools too. They also meet industry experts and mentors - adult allies who can help them envision their future. We’re all about skill building – minus sleeping through the boring parts. Because with JA, there are no boring parts.

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.

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

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.

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

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)