VOLUNTEER DRIVERS provide safe, reliable transportation for children, youth and families to/from
appointments , family visits, school and camp.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES
• Provide local and long distance transportation for children.
• Abide by the rules of the road and all driving/automobile related laws.
• Properly use child restraints, according to current standards.
• Follow all policies and procedures related to volunteer driving as outlined in Volunteer Services.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE & SKILL REQUIREMENT
• Driver’s abstract must be submitted prior to commencing as a Volunteer Driver and will be completed
on an annual basis.
• Must have and maintain a mechanically sound and safe vehicle at all times
• Must have, and maintain, a minimum of $1,000,000 liability insurance.
• Adherence to mandatory seatbelt and child restraint regulations.
• Experience with children an asset.
•Reliability, flexibility, patience and confidentiality are all required.
•Must have a good driving record, acceptable police check and driver’s abstract.
•Must have a valid G driver’s license at all times

VOLUNTEER SECREENING
To become an approved volunteer with the Society, all applicants must complete the
screening process. Acceptance will be based on the results of this process.

• Volunteers must be 18 years or older.
• Volunteers must live or work in the Durham Region.
• Applicants will attend an information session in a group or individually.
• Applicants will complete an application form.
• An internal Society records check will be completed to determine any Society involvement.
• A provincial records check will be completed within the Child Protection Information Network (CPIN)
• Applicants will provide the names of three references and references will be deemed favourable. Manager, Communications & Community Relations has the discretion to approve an applicant with 2 references completed and deemed favourable.
• Applicants will provide a Criminal Records Check with Vulnerable Sector screening
• Applicants will provide proof of a valid driver’s license and a favorable driver’s abstract from the Ministry of Transportation when an assignment involves transporting children, youth and families.
• Applicants will be interviewed by the Coordinator of Volunteer Services to determine their suitability as a volunteer.
• Applicants will provide a Release of Information to contact other Children’s Aid Societies when there has been involvement or if they have resided outside of the Region for the last 10 years.
• Applicants will attend and complete New Volunteer Training
• Applicants must sign an Oath of Confidentiality
• Applicants will sign the Volunteer Agreement
• The applicant will be notified when they have been either approved or denied.

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

Provide assistance in implementing Drama Camp activities such as producing plays, choreography, poetry, improvised scenes, theatre games for children and youth ages 6 -14 years.

Actively listen to victims and survivors of sexual violence who are struggling. Provide de-escalation, grounding, check-ins, community resources and appropriate information/referrals to callers/clients * connect with staff for support or debriefing * attend volunteer meetings and new training/workshops opportunities * Submit call logs * complete a 6 session (18 hour) volunteer training, and recieve a training certificate
 
Calls will come through via our automated service ensuring your anonymity* minimum 1 year commitment to the centre

Visit one-on-one with a resident * listen, chat and enjoy some time together

Assist with Recreation activities

AFIYU Enterprise is a non-profit  organization that provides a robust mentorship program and other services to underserved youth in the Durham Region. We are seeking board members to assist the executive team with the organizational activities and decision making process.

Responsibilities include:

Attending board meetings

Assist with important decision making pertaining to all organizational matters

Make, amend or repeal any by-laws that regulate the activities or affairs of the corporation

Staff selection

Other duties TBD

The Board of Directors represents the leaders of our agency and serves as a working board that oversees the long term strategic vision and overall health of the organization. Directors approve the organization’s philosophy and continually review the management’s performance while working toward agency goals. The Board of Directors will also annually review and approve plans for funding in view of organizational goals. Board members have a list of responsibilities that they renew every year during the annual election at our Annual General Meeting.

Personal Disaster Assistance (PDA) Responder

• Working with a small team of trained responders, you will support clients affected by smaller disaster events such as house fires.   

• This support will include assessing short-term needs and providing access to immediate services such as shelter, food, clothing.   

• Your compassion and caring for those affected will help them focus on the next steps and recovery.  

• When not responding, you will help your team remain prepared and may get involved with community disaster preparedness initiatives that reduce the impact of disasters in your community.   

• You are willing to assist people in your community who are in need, and you can take on periodic on-call shifts. 

Emergency Response Team (ERT) Responder

• Along with a team of experienced volunteers, you will assess the needs of those affected by an emergency event.  

• You will work with your team and community partners to provide access to services such as shelter, food, clothing, and the registration of evacuees. You will also help provide emotional care and comfort within an emergency shelter, community reception centre, community recovery centre or through outreach activities in the community.  

• Ideally, you are willing to help within your community and you may be available to help in other communities periodically throughout the year.

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!

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 Youth Justice Committee is a youth diversion program established under the Youth Criminal Justice Act as an alternative to the formal court system to handle low-risk offenses committed by young persons between their 12th and 18th birthdays in the Durham Region. A youth and their parent(s) or guardian will meet with a committee of community volunteers and the victim. Together they will negotiate meaningful ways or “sanctions” for the youth to repair the harm caused.

Must be at least 21 years of age.

Supporting members throughout a variety of events including:

• Art Workshops
• Dances
• Cooking Classes
• Weekend Cabin Retreats - at Camp Samac
• Bowling Nights 
• Dinner & Movie Nights

Duties during events include

• engaging with members in a friendly socializing role
• contributing to a positive, welcoming and inclusive environment by respecting all individuals including members, staff & volunteers from different walks of life and varied abilities
• promote appropriate life and social skills
• encourage members to participate in events through positive energy and participation
• assisting members to ensure they're included in programs i.e., holding knife while member places hand over top of yours to assist with cutting food items
• supporting staff in set up and clean up of events including: whiping down tables/counters, dishes, decorating, moving furniture, changing garbages etc. 

The volunteer program is currently running on-line  
 
Assist grade one-to-three students improve reading skills * listen to child read, help with sounds or pronunciation if needed * reinforce reading for enjoyment

We are a not for profit registered charity organization. Directors participate in monthly meetings including administrative duties, fundraising initiatives, public events and approval of successful crime stoppers tips. 

Looking for a volunteer to facilitate basic cooking skills for one hour a week. Morning start so that the group can eat what they've made for lunch. Teaching basic cutting, chopping, stirring, mixing and other skills to make basic meals. Priority is to give people a chance to experience helping out in the kitchen.

To apply visit https://bttr.im/7u5e1

One-on-one mentor to child aged 6-16 * meet, plan weekly outing * provide guidance, attention, praise and advice * promote importance of staying in school and healthy relationships with family and peers

Nightstop is an alternative to shelter that adopts a preventative approach to homelessness by intervening at an early stage of crisis in order to help youth secure safe temporary housing, avoiding the shelter system or sleeping “rough” on the streets.

The program engages the community to act as “Hosts” for young people who have nowhere else to go and who have successfully passed a thorough risk assessment.

Community members help prevent that first night in shelter by offering a spare room and meals for short-term stays. Hosts and youth continue to be supported by DYS staff every step of the way.

Hosts are responsible for providing a private bedroom, access to laundry and bathroom facilities, as well as three meals (dinner, breakfast, and a packed lunch).

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

Provide oversite as a board member for social housing, monthly meetings. Work with the property management company to insure all aspects of the building are addressed. 

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.

Volunteer Interpreter for Youth Programs

Location:  Remote (Zoom) or in-person at BGC Durham (433 Eulalie Avenue in Oshawa)

Overview:  We are seeking compassionate and dedicated volunteers to join our roster of interpreters for various youth programs.  These programs are designed to support and empower youth, and your interpretation services will ensure that language barriers do not hinder effective communication and participation.

Responsibilities: 

• Provide interpretation services during youth program activities, ensuring clear and accurate communication between all parties.
• Be available to be contacted and scheduled on an as needed basis- advance notice will be provided and we will work around your personal schedule.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold the principles and values of the organization.

Requirements:

• Fluency in English and at least obe other language.
• Excelent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain impartial and unbiased.
• Reliable and punctual with a commitment to attending scheduled sessions.
• Prior experience in interpretation or translation in beneficial but not required.
• Must be 18 years or older.

How to apply:

If you are interested in adding your name to our roster of volunteer interpreters, please click HERE to fill out the application and upload a resume.  We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and language proficiencies.

Contact Information: For more information or if you have any questions, please contact: 

Jill Dallaire, Youth Services Director at (905)404-5700 or jdalliare@bgcdurham.com

Application Deadline: Ongoing

Hiring will be dependant on providing a clear Vulnerable Sector Check.

Animal care * lead animals to pasture, feeding, watering * groom animals * keep all buckets and dishes clean 
 
Barn work * muck out stalls, replace straw, dump wheelbarrows * keep equipment clean and sweep barn floors 
 
Administration * maintain daily logs and animal care records * communicate with Barn Manager about concerns * advocate for Pegasus to attract sponsors and volunteers

The role provides a warm welcome to clients, families and visitors.  Answers general questions, provides wayfinding, may assist with answering calls, and administrative/clerical tasks.

Providing outstanding customer service and organizing memorable events that will meet the quality expectations of the community.

• Collaborate in teams and or with other staff members and volunteers.
• Organizing details such as decorating, setting up and cleaning up after the event, decorating, seating participants during an event, providing directions and setting tables.
• Brainstorm ideas to support the event planning process.
• Ability to carry out tasks with limited supervision.
• Provide raffle tickets to the participants who attend the events.

Designing social media content for our platform that are engaging with current trends and opportunities to increase brand exposure for our company.

• Collaborate in teams and or with other staff members and volunteers.
• Propose ideas to improve DFCC's social media platforms.
• Provide support for designing flyers, and posters while being informed of trending topics.
• Create and plan the contents of the volunteer and or youth monthly newsletter. It can incorporate feature articles, updates and highlights of DFCC's activities and achievements. 
• Create weekly quotes either inspirational or informative to engage followers.
• Writing blog posts about our initiatives and events 
• Identify community needs and recommend new topics

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

Join us as a Volunteer at the Christian Faith Outreach Centre's low barrier "one stop shop" HUB in Ajax, ON. Your role will be pivotal in providing support and assistance to individuals seeking a wide range of services in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Your dedication and compassion will help make a significant impact on the lives of those we serve.

Key Responsibilities:

- Greet and assist patrons with a friendly and non-judgmental approach, offering guidance on available services.

- Collaborate with referral partners to connect individuals with needed services and resources.

- Distribute basic necessities such as food, hygiene products, and clothing.

- Support resource organization and maintenance in the HUB, including restocking and cleanliness.

- Empower and advocate for patrons, encouraging self-advocacy and steps towards improvement.

- Maintain a safe and inclusive atmosphere, following established guidelines and protocols.

Qualifications:

- Essential qualities include compassion, empathy, and a nonjudgmental attitude.

- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

- Ability to maintain confidentiality and respect privacy.

- Flexibility and adaptability to a dynamic environment.

Training and Support:

Receive thorough training covering de-escalation techniques, trauma-informed care, and HUB services. Ongoing support and supervision provided.

Seeking volunteer male mentors for boys ages 9 - 16. Must be 21+ and preferably identifies as representing the Afro-Canadian Black community. If you are empathetic, kind and caring, we would love to connect you with a youth in need of support and guidance. Position is hybrid (both in person and virtual), and commit to at least 6 months. Please contact us for more details.

Provide positive one-on-one attention, guidance, and support to a child while at school; play sports, games, crafts, promote importance of staying in school and healthy relationships with family and peers 

Deliver food boxes on Fridays to clients' homes.  Food boxes contain a variety of healthy food essentials, locally made or grown.

Packers assemble food items, organize and fill food boxes on Thursdays.

Deliver meals along an assigned route usually designed to be completed in 1-1.5hrs * Deliver meals to the clients' door.  Have a few minutes for a brief chat.  Pick-up around 11am.

Pack meals in MOW bags in the morning hours

Clean out and sanitize returning MOW bags in the afternoon 
 

A variety of volunteer opportunities available to assist with weekly timed 5 km run on the Duffins Trail * marshal, photography * setup, tear-down * timer, scanning, finish tokens * other tasks as needed

Sunshine Therapy dogs is a group of dog lovers sharing a concern for those suffering from emotional and mental illnesss and a belief that the company of dogs can help.

Volunteers will visit community agencies, schools and other ogranizations that would benefit from our visits.

Groom * feed and care for animals * clean stables and stalls * lead small animals

Walk beside horse during lesson * groom, tack and untack horse * clean up after lesson

Under supervision feed horses * clean stalls, tack, saddle pads, blankets and water buckets daily * sweep stables and hay barn

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

Connect with new stroke survivors and/or caregivers in the local hospital setting.  Must be a stroke survivor/caregiver. Lived experience with the effects of a stroke and utilze their experience to provide hope, encouragement, eduation and emotional support to people who are beginning the recovery process.  

Looking for: Peer mentors with adults with Autism * Hub Hosts (welcoming members and doing games ,crafts, etc with them) * volunteers with a special talent who would like to share with our members running a program * volunteer teams needed for helping at the red Barn Bingo Hall monthly or bi-weekly.

·       Interacting with the public while providing great customer service. Merchandising and staging of furniture donations.

·       eCommerce: product research for price and key selling points, measure dimensions, photography, and minor touch up of items to support our new online platform.

·       Tasks may include customer service, product display, pricing, assembly, and repair

• Due to the physical nature of some of the tasks required, ReStore volunteers may be asked to lift heavy objects (bathroom fixtures, windows, doors, etc.)
• Assembling furniture and some restoration of various donations.
• Able to lift 10-20 pounds and be on your feet for several hours at a time.
• Volunteers are required to wear CSA approved green label safety shoes, some at store to borrow for volunteer shift

·       Come with a willingness to learn from experienced volunteers and staff and to work as part of a team. A positive attitude, enthusiasm, flexibility, and a sense of humour is always key! Tasks are not always glamorous, so be prepared to do a variety of things.

Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary is the only monkey sanctuary in Canada. Volunteer tasks include indoor and outdoor enclosure cleaning * preparing dinners,  food enrichment and treats for the moneys *  If skilled, carpentry projects, such as building monkey sleep boxes, creating structural enrichment and assisting with facilities maintenance * If you are unable to join us on-site, there are other volunteer opportunities to assist with fundraising and campaigns. Retirees welcomed! 
 
  
 
Safety Note: As a sanctuary, physical contact with the monkeys is extremely limited. We respect their space and only interact with them on their terms through their enclosures to provide enrichment, support and comfort." 
 
**

Brain Waves Cafe is a monthly social gathering for people living with dementia and their care partners * Volunteers welcome participants to the cafe provideing them with a safe and welcoming environment to stimulate socialization and participation *  Volunteers present the program/agenda and facilitate converstaion and discussion *  Promote a fun, safe and inclusive social environment conducive to group cohesion and relationship building

One-on-one visit with senior * play games, assist with puzzles * read aloud

Act as the first point of contact for visitors and guests to the office * perform clerical tasks including reception, answering phones, greeting clients and visitors to the the office, and assist with financial data entry.

Assist shoppers purchase new and gently-used womens, mens and childrens clothing * ensure tidiness of store * set up and take down displays * handle cash * sort clothing donations * promote, be able to talk to customers about Bethesda House

Actively recruiting volunteers 
 
Engage a resident in activities and conversation, one to one * participate in activities of personal interest and ability

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)

We have current openings for Child/Youth Volunteers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) children 4-13 yrs. old)

2 shifts per month (approx. 8 hr. commitment)

Saturday Only.  Mornings- 8:45 am-12:45 pm and afternoons- 1:15pm to 5:15pm

What would your typical day look like?

·         set up area prior to children arriving

·         Provide one on one supervision – a volunteer with one ASD child.

·         Helping the child choose their activities and develop socialization skills through fun learning.

·         After the session: Clean up and sanitize toys, debrief.

Ideal for high school students interested in working with ASD or adults with ASD children or have an interest in working with ASD, gaining experience for post-secondary students including ECE, Social Work/Service, Psychology students, Teachers for example.

What can I expect from being a FOOTPRINTS Volunteer?

Volunteering with ASD children is a contribution to the community and one of the most rewarding experiences. 

** We provide complete training to our volunteers including Level C CPR/First Aid.

You bring a sense of happiness to an autistic child and real-life experience working with ASD children, while gaining team building and leadership skills.  If you are a high school student going into post-secondary or a college or university student, volunteering with FOOTPRINTS builds industry recognized experience on your resume.  As an adult volunteer your impact on an ASD child’s life is immeasurable.

Email Michele at volunteer@footprints4autism.org today!

Visit us at footprints4autism.org

Become a Volunteer today!

 Revera, we’re so thankful to have dedicated volunteers working in our retirement communities. Whether our volunteers are supporting recreation activities, helping out at a special event, or offering companionship to a resident, these acts of volunteerism and kindness make a big difference in the lives of the people who call Revera home. Inquire today about how you can get involved.

• Assist with recreation activities & events
• Support with meals & dining experience
• Participate in organized programs & clubs
• Develop relationships & visit with seniors
• 1-2 hours per week or spend a day with the rec staff 

 Support the visitors' program experience by assisting with crafts and activities, way finding, building interpretation, setup/take down.  

Provide excellent customer service to all Whitby Courthouse Theatre patrons in roles such as ushering, concessions sales, ticket scanners, etc.

Facilitate Go Girls, program for girls 10-14 to learn about food and nutrition * provide guidance, attention, praise, and advice to instill trust and self-confidence * promote the importance of staying in school and healthy relationships with family and peers

Assist with special event fundraisers * sponsorship recruitment * donor relations, stewardship * marketing, communications 
 
During the Covid-19 pandemic, though we have fewer volunteer opportunities than usual, we are still accepting full volunteer applications

Act as a community liaison and collaborate with like-minded individuals to raise awareness * plan education events * plan fundraising events such as the Gutsy Walk

What you need to know about becoming a Crew Leader:

Volunteers are not required to have prior building experience.

·      Onsite training is provided by our skilled Site Supervisor

·      All necessary Personal Protective Equipment is available for volunteers.

·      We build 12 months a year, Monday to Friday, shifts are 8 hours, from 8:00 am – 4:00pm Shifts are self-scheduled via online registration.

·       Time Commitment:  We request a commitment of two shifts per month as part of the Crew program.

Build Site Locations:

·     423 Old Weston Road, Etobicoke

·     485 Normandy Street Oshawa

·     25 William Street, Brampton – Start date Spring 2023

Position:

·      Have an interest in the different phases of the construction process that include framing, dry walling, landscaping, insulating, flooring, etc.

·      Lead a group of up to 5 volunteers with different levels of construction skillsets, including homeowners, in the construction of simple, decent, affordable homes while upholding standards of safety, quality, and fun.

·      Attend our health, safety, and construction training sessions.

·      Assist in providing a safe and healthy working environment such as: use of equipment, personal protective equipment for volunteers, delegating tasks, maintaining a suitable working environment including preparing for weather, cleaning, tasks, etc.