Volunteer MATTERS
Lisa Mort-Putland: Volunteering for the ‘Health’
of It
Acts of Service
Non-Profits Need Human Resources Too
The Challenges of Volunteering
MAKE Caring Your Legacy
With the growing population of the Saanich Peninsula and surrounding areas, there is an increasing need for quality health care. Saanich Peninsula Hospital is well respected for its quality of care and expertise, and is a much sought after place for healthcare professionals to work. This is only possible through the gifts received from our donors, enabling the hospital to purchase state-of-the-art equipment, conduct necessary upgrades and renovations, and sta units with highly trained specialists to ensure the best care for all patients.
Jim Schneider, Publisher/Managing Editor publisher@islandparent.ca
Erika Palmer, Contributing Editor erika@islandparent.ca
Kristine Wickheim, Account Manager kristine@islandparent.ca
RaeLeigh Buchanan, Account Manager raeleigh@islandparent.ca
Volunteering for the ‘Health’ of It
When Lisa Mort-Putland was growing up in Wales, UK, in the 1970s, she never heard the word “volunteer.”
“You were just part of the community, you helped your neighbours, there was no structured ‘volunteer’ program to speak of,” says the executive director of Volunteer Victoria.
It wasn’t until she immigrated to Canada for high school and got a job at a local museum that she heard the word her career would be based on for more than a decade.
She started volunteering for Big Brothers Big Sisters, then became a member of the fundraising committee, joined the
board and eventually became chair.
“I thought about what I wanted to do and what I could give to an organization and that is where we encourage our volunteers to start,” she says.
“Many people come to Volunteer Victoria and ask us, ‘Where do you want me to volunteer?’ And we respond with, ‘Where do you want to volunteer?’”
She jokes that she “accidently made a career out of volunteering.”
“There is a myth out there that when something needs to be done, people just turn up to help. That is not true. When something needs to be done, people will respond to a call and step up, but someone needs to put that call out.”
Volunteer Victoria
Mort-Putland holds a B.A. in drama and a master’s in public administration with a focus on non-profit management. Prior to working with Volunteer Victoria, she spent more than 25 years working and volunteering in the museum and heritage sector.
Providing leadership to the non-profit community since 1974, Volunteer Victoria is the primary recruitment and referral centre for the Greater Victoria Region. Guided by the principles of civil society, the organization aims to enrich the quality of life in the community through volunteer involvement.
Mort-Putland provides governance assistance to organizations and is often asked to speak at conferences, events and celebrations.
“I get the joy of meeting people that want to give back every day,” says MortPutland.
“There is never a shortage of people who want to do good. The ways in which
they are able to give back might shift or change but they still want to do good. It is immensely powerful to see how this helps communities thrive, and on an individual level, to see people who are so proud of the work they have done.”
She adds that the Fall is a very busy time for Volunteer Victoria. The organization will host several fairs at high schools, colleges and the University of Victoria. The fairs will include between 40 and 50 member agencies that are looking for volunteers.
Volunteer Victoria will also host a number of learning and training courses and webinars. The organization presents about 60 workshops per year.
Volunteer Canada
In addition to her work with Volunteer Victoria, Mort-Putland is the chair for the board of Volunteer Canada. Volunteer Canada’s mission is to advance volunteerism to grow connection, community and belonging.
Since 1977, Volunteer Canada has acted as the national voice and leadership body for volunteerism. A registered charity with over 1,100 organizational members, Volunteer Canada works with a diversity of corporate, charity, non-profit and education partners nationwide to strengthen the quality, quantity and accessibility of volunteering.
The organization is currently working on creating a National Volunteer Strategy that will explore how the landscape of volunteerism is shifting post-pandemic.
“As community needs and volunteer motivations change, we need to find new ways to reinvigorate community participation,” says Mort-Putland.
“Volunteer Canada is navigating the
Lisa Mort-Putland
Building Better Futures Together
complexities of modern volunteerism. We are working to remove barriers to participation so that every individual feels empowered to contribute to building more connected communities.”
She says that many older volunteers— a demographic that has previously made up a huge portion of volunteers in Canada—are changing how much time they give. Younger volunteers are willing and eager but there is an experience gap and the number of people entering the volunteer pool is still not keeping up with those who are leaving.
“Young people who are coming into volunteering are learning as they go,” she adds.
“People are shopping around to see what volunteer experience best suits them and they want to be engaged but be able to step away as well. This requires
Personal Experience
Mort-Putland adds that volunteering is a very personal experience.
“People may volunteer for an afternoon, a week, a month, a year or a lifetime. Volunteering is one of the few things we do entirely for ourselves. At work, our bosses tell us what to do; at school it is our teachers; at home it’s what is best for the family, but we get to say where we want to give our time when we volunteer.”
She says one of her favourite sayings is that people volunteer for the “health” of it.
“That goes for however you interpret ‘health,’” says Mort-Putland.
“Whether this is helping you get out
of your house and feel less alone, learn a new skill, help those in need or take a risk, volunteering is good for you and those you are helping.”
She adds that organizations like Volunteer Victoria and Volunteer Canada are there to act as a safety net when people decide to take that risk.
“Try volunteering for an organization for a day and if it isn’t the right fit, there are thousands of other societies looking for help,” says Mort-Putland.
“Give it a try and if you don’t like it, there is no harm done. We can also work with you. Maybe we can create a position for you within an organization. We are here to make sure you feel like your needs are being met while you give back.”
Learn more about Volunteer Victoria at volunteervictoria.bc.ca.
a more complicated plan from volunteer management, but we are adapting to it.”
Non-Profits Have HR Needs Too
Denise Lloyd has been an HR professional for more than 30 years and an avid advocate for volunteers for more than 12.
The founder and CEO of Engaged HR started working with Volunteer Victoria in 2012 and sat on the board as chair from 2014 to 2018.
“Volunteers are the engines of how things get done in the non-profit sector,” she says.
“The untold number of hours and time and talent that people are willing to contribute are often one of the only things that allow non-profits’ and charities’ mandates to move forward.”
Engaged HR takes a holistic solutions-based approach to workplace transformation. Their goal is to improve productivity, employee satisfaction, innovation and overall business performance. The Engaged team works with hundreds of organizations across the country and about half of them are non-profits, making Lloyd an expert in the field.
Volunteers Needs
Lloyd says she loved the diversity of Volunteer Victoria during her work with the organization.
“I really appreciated the breadth of service. They helped seniors and youth and really spanned the life continuum. It was great to support an organization that provides volunteers with the opportunity to explore different kinds of opportunities.”
She adds that volunteers need and deserve the same things that paid staff get from their leaders.
“They want to feel valued and acknowledged and be given the same proper training and management as a person in a paid position,” Lloyd says.
“It can be helpful to think about why your volunteers do what they do and then find ways to show your appreciation.”
She says ways organizations can recognize volunteers include:
• Providing new opportunities
•Mentioning their contributions in public communications including newsletters, social media and events
• Providing training that may help them progress personally or professionally
“It comes down to the fact that they want to feel valued and acknowledged even though they are not getting a paycheque,” says Llyod.
Non-Profit Challenges
Lloyd adds that non-profits have several unique challenges when it comes to HR.
One of the common struggles is navigating the legal compliance when moving from volunteers to paid staff, another is the fact non-profits and charities are often held back by red tape and can miss out on opportunities because of related delays.
“Non-profits are often not able to strike when the iron is hot because they are constrained by how their donated funds are used,” adds Lloyd.
She said another common mistake she sees with non-profits is that they don’t value the work they are offering people because they can’t pay or can’t pay high wages.
“Non-profits offer so many of the other things people are looking for now—flexible schedules, great benefits, high-calibre training programs,” she says.
“Non-profits are setting people up for success but as a non-profit leader, it is hard to step back and realize how powerful and positive that can be. Just because the salaries are lower, doesn’t mean they can’t be an attractive option for volunteers and staff.”
Two-Way Street
Lloyd says one of the most challenging issues non-profits face is dealing with volunteers that don’t meet expectations or those that work so hard, they experience volunteer burnout.
“When you have a volunteer that isn’t meeting expectations, it can be very hard to sit down with them and tell them that because they are giving their time for free,” she says.
“However, it needs to be done. A volunteer that isn’t meeting expectations can not only stop the organization from moving forward, they can actually
be harmful if they are causing other volunteers to lose interest or valuable meeting time is being taken up talking about how to deal with them.”
She says a way to avoid this is to ensure there are clear expectations that are written down by the board and discussed with the volunteer before they start the role.
She adds that having a volunteer that isn’t meeting expectations doesn’t necessarily mean they can’t contribute to the organization; they may excel in another position. However, she adds, there may be a time when you need to part ways.
“If they are hampering or hindering the mandate of the organization, you have a responsibility to let them go,” she says.
Another pitfall comes in when a volunteer has contributed a large amount of time, and they begin to feel disillusioned or even resent the cause.
“At some point, the scales seem to tip, and it doesn’t matter how much you have appreciated them, they won’t feel it,” says Lloyd.
She adds that including a maximum number of hours a volunteer can give within the job description or expectations can help avoid this from happening. It might also be valuable for someone on the board or staff to be in charge of checking in with volunteers periodically in an attempt to catch something like this before it gets out of hand.
Volunteer Victoria offers several workshops and events that can help board members and staff of a nonprofit navigate these challenges. The organization raises new generations of volunteers, provides training and expertise to volunteer-led organizations and projects and creates opportunities that do not exist anywhere else. As the only volunteer centre serving all of Greater Victoria they invest in volunteerism—so that volunteers can help shape the people, places and projects that inspire us all.
Learn more at volunteervictoria. bc.ca
Denise Lloyd
Community
1 Up Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre
250-385-1114 x3 singleparentvictoria.ca
Beacon Community Services
250-658-6407 beaconcs.ca
BeaYOUtiful Foundation
778-918-3059 thebeayoutifulfoundation.com
Burnside Gorge Community Association
250-388-5251 X223 burnsidegorge.ca
Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) 1-800-563-2642 cnib.ca/en?region=bc
Capital Region Food & Agricultural Initiatives Roundtable
250-896-7004 crfair.ca
CFB Esquimalt Naval & Military Museum
250-363-4312 forces.gc.ca
Community Living Victoria
250-477-7231 | cyoungblut@clvic.ca communitylivingvictoria.ca
Community Options for Children & Families
250-380-6363 cocf.ca
Community Social Planning Council
250-383-6166 communitycouncil.ca
Cook Street Village Activity Centre
250-384-6542 csvac.ca
Destination Greater Victoria (Tourism Victoria)
250-953-2022 tourismvictoria.com
Esquimalt Farmers Market esquimaltmarket.com
Esquimalt Neighbourhood House
250-385-2635 enh.bc.ca
Esquimalt Volunteer Services
250-412-8511 esquimalt.ca
Fairfield Gonzales Community Association 250-382-4604 x104 fairfieldcommunity.ca
Family Caregivers Society of BC 250-384-0408 familycaregiversbc.ca
Fernwood Neighbourhood Resource Group 250-381-1552 fernwoodnrg.ca
Friends of Bowker Creek Society friendsofbowkercreek@gmail.com bowkercreek.org
Global Village Store –Victoria Global Village Society 250-388-5591 victoriaglobalvillage.ca
Gorge View Society 250-360-1977 gorgeviewsociety.ca
Greater Victoria Citizens’ Counselling Centre 250-384-2934 citizenscounselling.com
Greater Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness Society 250-370-1512 victoriahomelessness.ca
Greater Victoria Housing Society 250-384-3434 greatervichousing.org
Habitat for Humanity – Victoria 250-480-7688 habitatvictoria.com
Help Fill A Dream Foundation 250-382-3135 helpfilladream.com
InnovativeCommunities.Org Foundation 250-896-3236 innovativecommunities.org
Inter-Cultural Association
250-388-4728 icavictoria.org
Island Deaf & Hard of Hearing Centre
250-592-8144 idhhc.ca
James Bay Community Project
250-388-7844 jbcp.bc.ca
James Bay Community School Society 250-389-1470 sd61.bc.ca
James Bay Market Society 250-381-5323 jamesbaymarket.com
James Bay New Horizons Society 250-386-3035 jamesbaynewhorizons.ca
John Howard Society of Victoria 250-386-3428 jhsvic.ca
Learning Through Loss 250-413-3114 learningthroughloss.org
Lifetime Networks Victoria 250-477-4112 lifetimenetworks.org
MADD Canada – Victoria Chapter 1-877-676-6233 madd.ca
Mental Health Society of Greater Victoria 250-363-9429 mhsvictoria.org
Mercy Ships Canada 250-381-2160 mercyships.ca
Monterey Recreation Centre 250-370-7300 oakbay.ca
The Mustard Seed Street Church 250-953-1575 mustardseed.ca
NEED2
250-386-6328 youthspace.ca
Oak Bay Volunteer Services 250-595-1034 oakbayvolunteers.org
Oaklands Community Association & Centre 250-370-9101 oaklandsca.com
Open Space Arts Society 250-383-8833 openspace.ca
Our Place 250-388-7112 ourplacesociety.com
Pacific Centre Family Services Association 1-866-478-8357 pcfsa.org
Pacifica Housing Advisory Association 250-385-2131 x2212 pacificahousing.ca
Phoenix Human Services Assoc. (Thrive Social Services Soc.) 250-995-5510 thrivevictoria.org
Grocery Shopping & Delivery Service
Interested in joining our volunteer team? Contact Customer Care: 250-544-1234 | 1-866-948-0196 sendial@thriftyfoods.com | thriftyfoods.com/sendial
Power to Be Adventure Therapy Society
250-385-2363 powertobe.ca
Quadra Village Community Centre
250-388-7696 x225 quadravillagecc.com
Rainbow Health Cooperative 1-888-241-9992 rainbowhealth.coop
Red Cedar Cafe Association 778-817-0395 redcedarcafe.ca
Royal Jubilee Hospital Auxiliary 250-217-0600 rjhaux.ca
Saanich Neighbourhood Place
250-360-1148 snplace.org
Saanich Volunteer Services
250-595-8008 saanichvolunteers.org
Salvation Army –Public Relations Office
250-386-6304 salvationarmy.ca
Search & Rescue Society of BC
250-383-6849 sarbc.org
Sendial
250-544-1234 thriftyfoods.com
Seniors Serving Seniors Association of BC
250-413-3211 sssbc.org
Serenity Housing Co-operative serenityhousingcoop.ca
Shekinah Homes Society
250-595-1014 shekinahhomes.org
Shelbourne Community Kitchen Society
250-590-0980
shelbournecommunitykitchen.ca
Soap for Hope Canada
250-590-1462
soapforhopecanada.ca
Society of St. Vincent De Paul
250-727-0007
svdpvictoria.com
Sooke Family Resource Society
250-642-5152 sfrs.ca
Sooke Shelter Society
250-858-7700 sookeshelter.org
The Soup Kitchen 778-440-7687 thesoupkitchen.ca
Southern Gulf Islands Community Resources Centre
250-629-3665 sgicommunityresources.ca
Southern Gulf Islands Neighbourhood House sginh.ca
The Cridge Centre for the Family 250-995-6404 cridge.org
Threshold Housing Society 250-383-8830 thresholdhousing.ca
Together Against Poverty Society 250-361-3521 tapsbc.ca
Vancouver Island Strata Owners Association 250-920-0688 visoa.bc.ca
Victoria Chapter of Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan 250-391-3908 cw4wafghan.ca
Victoria Community Resources Society – Twin Oaks
250-658-4931 vcrs.ca
Victoria Cool Aid Society 250-595-8619 coolaid.org
Victoria Disability Resource Centre 250-595-0044 drcvictoria.com
Victoria Downtown Residents’ Association victoriadra.ca
Victoria Dragon Boat Festival Society
604-688-2382
victoriadragonboatfestival.com
Victoria Health Co-operative
778-440-0221
victoriahealthcooperative.com
Victoria Pride Society
888-241-9992
victoriapridesociety.org
Victoria Rainbow Kitchen Society
250-384-2069 rainbowkitchen.ca
Victoria Therapeutic Riding Association
778-426-0506 vtra.ca
Victoria West Community Association
250-590-8922 victoriawest.ca
Victoria Women In Need Community Cooperative
250-480-4006 x204 womeninneed.ca
Victoria Women’s Transition House Society
250-592-2927 x229 vwth.bc.ca
Wear 2 Start Society
250-472-9327
wear2start.com
West Coast Reach Association
250-882-4339 westcoastreach.org
WITS Programs Foundation
250-386-7625 witsprogram.ca
Worklink Employment Society
250-478-9525
worklink.bc.ca
YMCA-YWCA of Vancouver Island
250-386-7511
vancouverislandy.ca
Health
Aberdeen Hospital
250-370-5626
islandhealth.ca
Alzheimer Society of BC 250-382-2052 alzheimerbc.org
AVI Health & Community Services Society
250-384-2366 avi.org
BC Association for Living Mindfully lokhorstgroup.com
BC Cancer – Victoria 250-519-5500 bccancer.bc.ca/centre-vancouver-islandcentre-site
Borderline Personality Disorder Society of BC bpdbc.ca
Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada
519-642-7755 braintumour.ca
Broadmead Care Society
250-658-0311 broadmeadcare.com
Canadian Blood Services 1-888-236-6283 blood.ca
Canadian Cancer Society 250-592-2662 cancer.ca
Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Region
604-688-3234 bc.cmha.ca
Cancer DriveLine Society
778-265-0906 cancerdriveline.ca
Capital Region Food Share Network 236-464-7551 foodsharenetwork.ca
Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island 250-940-4950 islandkidsfirst.com
Diabetes Canada 778-622-4275 diabetes.ca
Heart & Stroke 1-888-473-0333 heartandstroke.ca
Immunity Canada 250-381-7134 immunitycanada.org
Island Community Mental Health Association 250-389-1211 icmha.ca
Island Kids Cancer Association ikca.ca
Island Prostate Centre 250-388-0214 islandprostatecentre.com
Island Sexual Health Society
250-592-3479 islandsexualhealth.org
James Bay Care Centre
250-388-6457 reveraliving.com
Kiwanis Pavilion
250-598-2022 obkp.org
Luther Court Society 250-477-7241 luthercourt.org
Mental Health Society of Greater Victoria mhsvictoria.org
Mercy Ships Canada
250-381-2160 mercyships.ca
Mount St. Mary Hospital
250-480-3100 x3201 mountstmary.ca
NEED2
250-386-6328 youthspace.ca
Oak Bay Lodge, VIHA
250-370-6642 islandhealth.ca
Power to Be Adventure Therapy Society
250-385-2363 powertobe.ca
Rainbow Health Cooperative 1-888-241-9992 rainbowhealth.coop
Royal Jubilee Hospital Auxiliary 250-217-0600 rjhaux.ca
Saanich Peninsula Stroke Recovery Association
250-656-6221 spstrokerecovery.org
Sooke Region Community Health Network
778-365-1878 sookeregionchn.org
The First Open Heart Society of BC 250-595-2123 fohs.ca
The Victoria Youth Clinic Society (Foundry) 250-383-3552 foundryvictoria.ca
Umbrella Society for Addictions & Mental Health
250-380-0595 umbrellasociety.ca
Uvic Institute on Aging & Lifelong Health
604-940-3580 uvic.ca
Victoria Brain Injury Society
250-598-9339 vbis.ca
Victoria General Hospital Auxiliary 250-294-4078 vgha.ca
Victoria Health Co-operative
778-440-0221 victoriahealthcooperative.com
Victoria Hospice 250-370-8715 victoriahospice.org
Victoria Therapeutic Riding Association
778-426-0506 vtra.ca
WomenMD Clinic 250-940-6010 womenmd.ca
YMCA-YWCA of Vancouver Island 250-386-7511 vancouverislandy.ca
Businesses Giving Back
Local business owner and full time Provincial Government employee, Laird McLachlin, loves to be involved with his local community. And now his twin sons are following in his footsteps! He was happy to share how he loves to give back and why he recommends getting involved in volunteering in your own community.
Tell us about the businesses you are involved in and what you do for work. And work history if it is relevant. Please also tell us some of your favourite things to do in your free time.
I work full time for the Provincial Government at the Ministry of Municipal Affairs where I administer grant programs. I also am a part owner of two local restaurants and a grocery store here in Victoria. When I am not working, I like to spend time with my family,
including my twin 13-year-old boys (which often revolves around finding something for them to eat).
Where are you currently volunteering/ sitting on committees?
Currently I am the chair of the Gordon Head Middle School Parent Advisory Committee (PAC), and I also have coached the boys’ soccer team for the last seven years.
How did you get started with volunteering? And can you name some of the volunteering you’ve done and committees you’ve sat on?
I really started volunteering to support my kids through soccer. In addition to the PAC and coaching I have also volunteered at our local mountain biking clubs “trail building days” and have returned to volunteer at our former
elementary school’s spring fair event each year.
What has been a favourite volunteer experience and/or what are you most proud of achieving through volunteering?
Coaching soccer has been one of my favorite experiences. Several of the kids I have coached for years have asked me for recommendations to the Reynolds soccer program for high school. Seeing the kids on the team grow up and getting updates on how they are doing is great.
Do you encourage your kids to volunteer, or do they do it naturally?
The boys are very willing to go make snow cones and help in various ways at their former elementary school during the spring fair event every year.
What advice would you give someone who wants to start volunteering?
Pick something you are interested in! I think volunteering in your own community is great. I often see people at the local coffee shop or supermarket that I have connected with through volunteering. It really builds a sense of community. Lots of organizations need people with all different skills so make sure to mention what you are good at.
Where do you see your volunteering taking you in the future? Do you feel you’ve earned a step back or will you continue volunteering with your kids’ school or anywhere else?
I will serve on the PAC until the boys graduate high school, and the same with soccer. I am sure I will continue with volunteering in some capacity after that but will have to find the right fit.
Is there ANYTHING else you’d like to add about volunteering?
Being part of the community is important to me, I believe it makes our neighborhood a better place to live. I also tell my boys that if you want something to happen like a school trip, or new turf, you need to get involved.
Social Services
1 Up Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre
250-385-1114 X3 singleparentvictoria.ca
9–10 Club Serving Soup to the Hungry Society 778-440-7687 thesoupkitchen.ca
Action Committee of People with Disabilities
250-383-4105 actioncommittee.ca
Anawim Companions Society
250-382-0283 anawimhouse.com
CFB Esquimalt Military Family Resource Centre
250-363-2640 emfrc.com
CHOICES Adoption & Counselling 250-479-9811 choicesadoption.ca
Community Social Planning Council
250-383-6166 communitycouncil.ca
Esquimalt Volunteer Services 250-412-8511 esquimalt.ca
Family Caregivers Society of BC 250-384-0408 familycaregiversbc.ca
Foster Parent Support Services Society 778-430-5459 fpsss.com
Global Village Store – Victoria Global Village Society 250-388-5591 victoriaglobalvillage.ca
Gorge View Society 250-360-1977 gorgeviewsociety.ca
Greater Victoria Down Syndrome Society gvdss.org
Greater Victoria Housing Society
250-384-3434 greatervichousing.org
Greater Victoria Women’s Shelter Society gvwss.org
Independent Living Housing Society of Greater Victoria 250-383-2524 ilhs.ca
Inter-Cultural Association 250-388-4728 icavictoria.org
John Howard Society of Victoria 250-386-3428 jhsvic.ca
Lifetime Networks Victoria 250-477-4112 lifetimenetworks.org
MADD Canada – Victoria Chapter 1-877-676-6233 madd.ca
Oak Bay Emergency Social Services 250-598-3311 oakbay.ca
Our Place 250-388-7112 ourplacesociety.com
Pacific Centre Family Services Association 1-866-478-8357 pcfsa.org
Parent Support Services Society of BC 604-669-1616 parentsupportbc.ca
Saanich Neighbourhood Place 250-360-1148 snplace.org
Sooke Shelter Society 250-858-7700 sookeshelter.org
Sooke Transition House Society 250-642-2591 sooketransitionhousesociety.com
SUPPLY Victoria 778-700-7233 supplyvictoria.ca
Vancouver Isl. Counselling Centre for Immigrants & Refugees 778-404-1777 viccir.org
Victoria Community Resources Society – Twin Oaks 250-658-4931 vcrs.ca
Victoria Cool Aid Society 250-595-8619 coolaid.org
Victoria Hospice 250-370-8715 victoriahospice.org
Victoria Rainbow Kitchen Society 250-384-2069 rainbowkitchen.ca
Victoria Women In Need Community Cooperative 250-480-4006 x204 womeninneed.ca
Victoria Women’s Transition House Society 250-592-2927 x229 transitionhouse.net
Children & Youth
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria 250-475-1117 X40 bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
Our vision is that all children and youth are empowered to reach their full potential through mentorship. Visit our website to learn more about becoming a volunteer.
Boys and Girls Club Services of Greater Victoria 250-384-9133 bgcvic.org
CFAX Santas
Anonymous Society 778-561-1070 cfaxsantas.com
Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island 250-940-4950 islandkidsfirst.com
CHOICES Adoption & Counselling
250-479-9811 choicesadoption.ca
Community Options for Children & Families
250-380-6363 cocf.ca
George Pringle Memorial Camp Society 250-743-2189 camppringle.ca
Girls Rock Camp Victoria Society grcvi.ca
Help Fill A Dream Foundation 250-382-3135 helpfilladream.com
Island Kids Cancer Association ikca.ca
KidSport Greater Victoria 250-380-1518 kidsportvictoria.ca
Nature Kids BC naturekidsbc.ca/find-a-club/vancouverisland/naturekids-victoria
Scouts Francophones De Victoria 604-936-3624 scoutsfranco.com
Support Soweto Junior School 250-598-0708 supportsowetojuniorschool.org
The Victoria Youth Clinic Society (Foundry) 250-383-3552 foundryvictoria.ca
Vancouver Island Cooperative Preschool Association vicpa.org
Victoria General Hospital Auxiliary 250-294-4078 vgha.ca
Victoria Youth Empowerment Society 250-383-3514 vyes.ca
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Acts of Service
Given the extent of the commentary on the topic of “service,” it is a rather daunting task to think that one might be able to add to the conversation. Before I make that attempt, let’s have a quick look at what four others have said:
“Our lives are to be used and thus to be lived as fully as possible, and truly it seems that we are never so alive as when we concern ourselves with other people.” – Harry Chapin
“What is the essence of life? To serve others and to do good.” – Aristotle (384–322 BC)
“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” – Muhammad Ali
“Wherever you turn, you can find someone who needs you. Even if it is a little thing, do something for which there is no pay but the privilege of doing it. Remember, you don’t live in a world all of your own.” – Albert Schweitzer
Clearly, through the years, service— and the value and indeed critical necessity of service in terms of adding to the health of individuals and the overall community in general—has occupied the thinking of many.
At Volunteer Victoria, my place of work, service is the foundation for what we do. As an organization, we have approximately 350 member agencies. Each agency has its own unique mission, vision and mandate but the common thread that binds them all is that they are all working to enhance quality of life in the communities in which they operate—and sometimes that is the global community. Our main piece of service to these many and diverse agencies is that we help them to find the volunteers that can then mobilize their diverse skills and abilities in support of the work of the agency that they are volunteering for. It is a fact that many local charitable organizations could not survive without the work and dedicated service of the many volunteers that contribute thousands of hours annually. Can you imagine a community, a world, where there were no
individuals willing to serve? As Winston Churchill once said, “You make a living by what you get, you make a life by what you give.” At Volunteer Victoria, by facilitating the connections between potential volunteers and agencies that have engaging meaningful opportunities for service available, we collectively contribute to the growth of “community resilience and sustainability.” Terms that some have described as the critical elements necessary to bring and bind communities together.
So, why do people look to serve? The literature abounds with answers to that question. I remember once speaking with an individual who volunteered for a health serving organization. I asked him how long he had been volunteering? He said 51 years. Wow, I immediately blurted out. Why, I asked? He said that he became and engaged and committed volunteer the minute his son was born with a certain disease. He had an emotional commitment to an important cause—finding a cure for his son’s disease. Continued service was simply a given. One more example of why. I once was speaking at
an elementary school talking about the value of volunteerism at any age. When my short talk ended, a 12-year-old girl came up to me and shared with me that for some time she had been joining her mother at a seniors activity centre to help with a ping pong program. At first, she didn’t really want to go—she had to because her mother said so. But later, she realized that it was fun. She then told me that she also realized that she made a difference in the lives of the participants— because they had told her so. She made a difference—and she felt great about that. The power of one person, through their service, to affect positive change growth in others and in themselves.
We all serve for different reasons; we all serve to the best of our ability and to the best of our intentions. Clearly though, the thing is that when I think about our global future as it relates to healthy communities the key element is that—in as much as we can—we all continue to serve. And for your service, we are all grateful.
– George Colussi
Animals
BC SPCA
250-478-9453 | spca.bc.ca
ElderDog Canada – Victoria Chapter 1-855-336-4226 | elderdog.ca
Pacific Animal Therapy Society
250-590-9082 | patspets.ca
Corporate
Better Business Bureau of Vancouver Island
250-386-6348 | vi.bbb.org
Coast Capital Savings
250-483-7000 | coastcapitalsavings.com
invested in our communities over the past two decades.
Coast Capital is a platinum member of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, one of Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures and a BC Top Employer.
At Coast Capital, we’re not dreaming about a better future, we’re building one. We’re a member-owned financial cooperative with an 80-year legacy of unlocking financial opportunities that positively impact
Indigenous
Indigenous Perspectives Society
250-391-0007 ipsociety.ca
people and communities. We believe that every Canadian deserves a financial partner who actually cares how things turn out. Driven by our social purpose, we look at everything we do through the lens of how we can help our 600,000 members, our employees and our communities. A proud Certified B Corporation®, we’re part of a global movement building a more inclusive, equitable and regenerative economic system. We’re deeply committed to making our financial cooperative a great place to work, as demonstrated by some of our accolades, and have significantly
M’akola ILBC Housing Society
250-474-1524 X2 makola.bc.ca
R.A.V.E.N. Respecting Aboriginal Values & Environmental Needs
250-383-2331 raventrust.com
Downtown Victoria Business Association
250-386-2238 | downtownvictoria.ca
Vancity
250-519-7000 | vancity.com
Newcomers
Inter-Cultural Association
250-388-4728 icavictoria.org
Vancouver Island Counselling Centre for Immigrants & Refugees
778-404-1777 viccir.org
Spiritual
Centre for Earth & Spirit Society
250-592-6400 centreforearthandspirit.ca
International Metaphysical Academy 250-472-0909 metaphysicalacademy.com
Environmental
Capital Region Food & Agricultural Initiatives Roundtable
250-896-7004 crfair.ca
Centre for Earth & Spirit Society 250-592-6400 centreforearthandspirit.ca
Friends of Bowker Creek Society friendsofbowkercreek@gmail.com bowkercreek.org
Garry Oak Meadows Preservation Society (GOMPS)
250-391-9480 garryoak.info
Greater Victoria Compost & Conservation Education Society 250-386-9676 compost.bc.ca
Greater Victoria Green Team 778-677-9078 greenteamscanada.ca
Horticulture Centre of the Pacific 250-479-6162 hcp.ca
Land Trust Alliance of BC 250-590-1921
ltabc.ca
Nature Kids BC naturekidsbc.ca/find-a-club/vancouverisland/naturekids-victoria
Oak & Orca Bioregional School 250-383-6609 orcapod.ca
Peninsula Streams Society 250-363-6480 peninsulastreams.ca
R.A.V.E.N. Respecting Aboriginal Values & Environmental Needs 250-383-2331 raventrust.com
Rocky Point Bird Observatory rpbo.org
Saanich Parks Pulling Together Program 250-475-5502
saanich.ca/volunteers
SeaChange Marine Conservation Society 250-652-1662
seachangesociety.com
Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea (New Marine Centre Society) 250-665-7511
salishseacentre.org
Southern Vancouver Island Nature Trails Society naturetrailssociety.com
Swan Lake/Christmas Hill
Nature Sanctuary 250-479-0211 swanlake.bc.ca
TLC The Land Conservancy 250-479-8053 conservancy.bc.ca
Seniors
Amica Jubilee House
250-592-1200
amica.ca/jubilee-house
Abbeyfield House St. Peter’s Society
250-479-6140 abbeyfieldstpeters.org
Broadmead Care Society
250-658-0311
broadmeadcare.com
Cook Street Village Activity Centre
250-384-6542 csvac.ca
James Bay Care Centre
250-388-6457 reveraliving.com
Government
Aberdeen Hospital
250-370-5626
islandhealth.ca
Camosun College Co-op Education & Career Services
250-370-3420 camosun.bc.ca
CFB Esquimalt Military Family Resource Centre
250-363-2640 emfrc.com
James Bay New Horizons Society
250-386-3035
jamesbaynewhorizons.ca
James Bay New Horizons provides opportunities for individuals to lead more meaningful, active, healthy and complete lives.
Kiwanis Pavilion
250-598-2022 obkp.org
Mount Douglas Seniors Housing Society
250-721-1818 mdshs.net
Mount St. Mary Hospital
250-480-3100 x3201 mountstmary.ca
City of Victoria
250-361-0397 victoria.ca
CRD Parks
250-360-3329
crd.bc.ca
Emergency Management Victoria (AKA VictoriaReady)
250-920-3373 victoria.ca
Royal BC Museum
250-387-7902 royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
Oak Bay Lodge, VIHA 250-370-6642 islandhealth.ca
Selkirk Seniors Village
250-940-1028 selkirkplace.ca
Seniors Serving Seniors Association of BC 250-413-3211 sssbc.org
Silver Threads – Saanich 250-382-3151 silverthreads.ca
The Glenshiel Housing Society 250-383-4164 theglenshiel.bc.ca
Saanich Emergency Program
250-475-7140 saanich.ca/prepare
Saanich Police Department, Block Watch
250-475-4321 x4365 saanichpolice.ca
Town of View Royal 250-479-6800 viewroyal.ca
Victoria Police Department
250-995-7654 vicpd.ca
Sports & Recreation
Bike Victoria Society
250-920-5775 biketowork.ca
Greater Victoria Sports Hall of Fame gvshof.ca
KidSport Greater Victoria
250-380-1518 kidsportvictoria.ca
Monterey Recreation Centre
250-370-7300 oakbay.ca
Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence Society
250-220-2587 pise.ca
Power to Be Adventure Therapy Society
250-385-2363 powertobe.ca
Royal Victoria Marathon runvictoriamarathon.com
Saanich Recreation & Community Services
250-475-5502 saanich.ca/volunteers
South Island Mountain Bike Society simbs.com
Special Olympics BC – Victoria 604-737-3078 specialolympics.ca/british-columbia
Victoria Dragon Boat Festival Society 604-688-2382 victoriadragonboatfestival.com
YMCA-YWCA of Vancouver Island 250-386-7511 vancouverislandy.ca
Volunteer opportunities
Addressing the Challenges of Volunteering
Most people find volunteering to be extremely rewarding, but it’s certainly not without its challenges. Supporting volunteers through these obstacles is key to ensuring they have a positive and impactful experience. By addressing these common challenges head-on, volunteers can thrive and continue doing the important work they came to do.
1. Finding Time
One of the biggest challenges volunteers come up against is finding the time to commit. Many of them juggle work, family and other responsibilities, and adding volunteer work to the mix can be tough. It’s important to be constantly looking for ways to offer more flexible volunteer opportunities. Whether it’s micro-volunteering tasks that only take a few hours or projects that can be done remotely, try to accommodate different schedules. By being flexible, volunteering can become more accessible to everyone.
2. Managing Financial Constraints
While volunteering is often seen as a way to give back without spending money, there are sometimes hidden costs, like transportation, meals or spe -
cial equipment. These financial challenges can often discourage potential volunteers from getting involved. To alleviate this, stipends or covering certain expenses should be offered, when possible. Volunteers should also be encouraged to consider local opportunities that don’t require much financial outlay or explore virtual volunteering, which can often be done from home with minimal cost.
3. Preventing Emotional Burnout
Volunteering can be emotionally demanding, especially in roles where volunteers are exposed to difficult situations. Volunteers often give so much of themselves that they start to burn out, which results in feeling exhausted and losing their initial passion. To help prevent this, make sure volunteers know it’s necessary to focus on self-care and to take breaks if needed. Create supportive environments by offering access to counseling services or organizing peer support groups where volunteers can share their experiences and get the support they need.
4. Providing Clear Expectations & Training
Another challenge can be that vol -
unteers sometimes feel lost or unprepared, especially when they’re new. Without clear instructions or proper training, even the most enthusiastic volunteers can become frustrated and unsure of themselves. It’s always important to prioritize clear communication from the start. Every volunteer should get a thorough orientation and ongoing training, so they know exactly what’s expected of them and feel confident in their roles. When volunteers understand the impact of their work, they’re more motivated and effective.
5. Navigating Organizational Bureaucracy
Navigating the bureaucracy within certain organizations can be another hurdle for volunteers. It certainly can be frustrating to deal with complex systems and procedures when all a volunteer wants to do is help. To streamline this, work on simplifying processes wherever possible and reducing unnecessary paperwork. Every volunteer should also have a clear point of contact, so they know who to reach out to if they have questions or need support.
6. Addressing Safety Concerns
Safety should always be a top priority, especially for volunteers working in high-risk environments like disaster zones or areas with health concerns. Every precaution should be taken to ensure all volunteers are safe and that all the necessary safety training and equipment are provided. Volunteers should always have the right to voice any concerns and opt out of tasks that they feel are unsafe. Creating a culture of safety and openness helps volunteers feel secure and supported.
7. Overcoming Cultural & Language Barriers
For volunteers working in diverse communities or abroad, cultural and language barriers can be challenging. Misunderstandings can hinder the work they’re trying to do and possibly create frustration on both sides. To help volunteers overcome these barriers, cultural sensitivity training and language support should be provided. Pairing volunteers with local guides or interpreters can bridge the gap and make the experience more rewarding for everyone involved.
Volunteering
Volunteer Motivations
According to the 2018 General Social Survey on Giving, Volunteering, and Participating, just over two-fifths of Canadians (41%) volunteered for a charitable or nonprofit organization during the one-year period prior to the survey. Below we look at the factors that motivated Canadians to volunteer.
To provide greater insight into factors that might encourage Canadians to increase the support they provide, volunteers were asked whether any of twelve factors were important drivers in their decision to volunteer for the organization they contributed the most hours to Overall, they are most likely to volunteer because they want to make a contribution to the community, to use their skills and experiences in support of a good cause, and because they or someone they know is personally a ected by the cause of the organization.
MOTIVATIONS REPORTED BY VOLUNTEERS
TOP 5 MOTIVATIONS BY GEOGRAPHY
Source: General Social Survey on Giving, Volunteering and Participating, 2018, Statistics Canada.
This resource was developed with funding from
What Defines a Volunteer
We often hear people use the term “volunteering” or “volunteered.” What are you doing this weekend? I’m volunteering at my son’s school. What did you do on Tuesday night—I volunteered at a local theatre. At a basic intuitive level, we all get what this means—what the act of volunteering is. But have you ever stopped to think about what conditions need to be present in order for an action or activity to be placed in the “volunteering” or “volunteered” category?
Susan J. Ellis once defined the word “volunteering” as follows: “To choose to act freely in recognition of a need, with an attitude of social or moral responsibility and without concern for monetary gain, going beyond one’s basic obligation.” I know. Lots of words—but within those words she has outlined her take on the conditions that need to be present for an action be one of vol -
unteering. Confronted with a need, you have engaged of your own free will, for no monetary compensation, in order to make a condition better.
So, you are going shopping at your local market one day and as you approach the entrance, you see a person struggling with carrying their groceries. As you pass this person, who is a stranger to you, you ask “can I help you carry your groceries?” Yhey immediately reply, “Yes please, my car is just a short distance away.” So, off the two of you go, you now carrying the load. Getting to the car, you place the bags of groceries in the owner’s truck, they say, “Thank you so much” you say, “You are most welcome” and you walk away. Have you volunteered? Has your service met the conditions Susan J. Ellis outlined? Absolutely!
For some it is called doing a good deed. For others it is called a random
act of kindness. For those in the volunteer coordination world, it is called “informal volunteering.” That is, “any assistance given to non-household individuals that is not through a formal organization.” For those of you that live your daily journey looking to informally volunteer, know that your service—while unaligned with a formal agency—is valid, appreciated and contributes greatly to quality-of-life enhancement in our community. And it will probably warm your heart. And for those of you at an earlier stage in your life’s journey that are looking to build the area on your resume that speaks to “Volunteer Service”—but there just has not been the time yet to create a body of work in that area—don’t forget the validity, relevance and power of “informal volunteering.” Kindness does indeed matter.
– George Colussi
The Future of Volunteering
Volunteering is changing, and it’s exciting to see where it’s headed. With new technology, social shifts, and different expectations from both volunteers and organizations, the future of volunteering looks promising, but it will also bring new challenges. Here’s a look at some key trends shaping the future of volunteering.
1. Virtual Volunteering Is Here to Stay
The COVID-19 pandemic pushed many organizations to move their activities online, and this shift isn’t going away. Virtual volunteering allows people to help out from almost anywhere, breaking down geographical barriers and making it easier for those with busy schedules to get involved. Moving forward, virtual volunteering will likely become even more common. This opens up opportunities to engage a broader range of volunteers, including those who might not have been able to participate in traditional, in-person activities.
2. Technology is Changing the Game
Technology is already transforming how volunteers are managed, and it’s only going to become more important. Tools like artificial intelligence (AI) can help match volunteers with the right opportunities based on their skills and interests, and even automate some of the administrative work, freeing up time for more strategic tasks.
Technology can also be used to enhance the volunteer experience by offering personalized engagement, tracking the impact of volunteer work and providing real-time feedback.
3. Flexible Volunteering Options Are in Demand
As people’s lives get busier, there’s a growing demand for more flexible volunteering options. Micro-volunteering— where volunteers can help out in short bursts of time—is becoming more popular. These tasks might only take a few minutes or a few hours to complete, making it easier for people to fit volunteering into their busy lives. In the future, we’ll likely see more emphasis on creating flexible opportunities that cater to different schedules and lifestyles in all different fields.
4. Skills-Based Volunteering Is on the Rise
Skills-based volunteering, where people use their professional skills to help nonprofits, is another trend that’s gaining traction. As the need for specialized skills like digital marketing, data analysis and IT grows, nonprofits are looking for volunteers who can bring these talents to their organizations. This trend benefits both the nonprofits and the volunteers, who can use it as an opportunity to build their skills and gain valuable experience.
5. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Matter More Than Ever
The future of volunteering will be shaped by a stronger focus on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Volunteers today are more aware of social justice issues and expect the organizations they support to prioritize DEI. This means creating opportunities that are accessible to people from all backgrounds. Barriers to participation are already being moved, such as language differences or accessibility issues just to name a few. Environments will continue to be built to support all volunteers to feel valued and respected.
6. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Is Expanding
More companies are recognizing the value of encouraging their employees to volunteer, not just for the community but for the company as well. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming a bigger part of the volunteer landscape, with businesses offering their employees paid time off to volunteer or organizing company-wide volunteer events. More companies are expected to realize the benefits of helping their employees give back in different ways.
7. Volunteering Is Going Global
With the rise of virtual volunteering and the ability to connect with people worldwide, volunteering is no longer limited by borders. This globalization of volunteering offers new opportunities to address global challenges like climate change, poverty and health crises through collaborative efforts.
Education
BC Aviation Museum
250-655-3300 bcam.net
BeaYOUtiful Foundation
778-918-3059 thebeayoutifulfoundation.com
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria 250-475-1117 x40 bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
Bridges for Women Society
250-385-7410 bridgesforwomen.ca
Camosun College-Co-op Education & Career Services
250-370-3420 camosun.bc.ca
Diabetes Canada
778-622-4275 diabetes.ca
Girls Rock Camp Victoria Society grcvi.ca
Greater Victoria Alliance for Literacy literacyalliance.ca
Greater Victoria Compost & Conservation Education Society 250-386-9676 compost.bc.ca
Greater Victoria Down Syndrome Society gvdss.org
Horticulture Centre of the Pacific 250-479-6162 hcp.ca
Indigenous Perspectives Society 250-391-0007 ipsociety.ca
InnovativeCommunities.Org Foundation
250-896-3236 innovativecommunities.org
International Metaphysical Academy 250-472-0909 metaphysicalacademy.com
James Bay Community School Society
250-389-1470
jamesbaycentre.ca
Learning Through Loss 250-413-3114 learningthroughloss.org
Mental Health Society of Greater Victoria mhsvictoria.org
MISSA International Summer School of the Arts
778-966-4772 missa.ca
Oak & Orca Bioregional School
250-383-6609 orcapod.ca
Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence Society 250-220-2587 pise.ca
Pacific Training Centre for the Blind 250-580-4910 pacifictrainingcentre.ca
Scouts Francophones De Victoria 604-936-3624 scoutsfranco.com
Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea (New Marine Centre Society) 250-665-7511 salishseacentre.org
Support Soweto Junior School 250-598-0708 supportsowetojuniorschool.org
The Circle Salt Spring Education Society 250-537-1336 thecircleeducation.org
University of Victoria Graduate Students’ Society 250-472-4543 uvic.ca
University of Victoria Students Society 250-472-4317 uvss.ca
UVic Community Engaged Learning Department 250-472-5667 uvic.ca
Uvic Institute on Aging & Lifelong Health uvic.ca
Vancouver Island Cooperative Preschool Association vicpa.org
Victoria Literacy Connection Society 250-385-0014 victorialiteracyconnection.ca
WITS Programs Foundation 250-386-7625 witsprogram.ca
Worklink Employment Society 250-478-9525 worklink.bc.ca
Arts & Culture
Alliance Française Victoria 250-686-4065 afvictoria.ca
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria 250-384-4171 x232 aggv.ca
Arts on View
250-388-9166 artsonview.ca
artsREACH
250-475-0354 artsreach.ca
Ballet Victoria 250-380-6063 balletvictoria.ca
CFB Esquimalt Naval & Military Museum
250-363-4312 forces.gc.ca
Civic Orchestra of Victoria 778-426-9048 civicorchestraofvictoria.org
Dance Victoria Society 250-595-1829 dancevictoria.com
Destination Greater Victoria (Tourism Victoria) 250-953-2022 tourismvictoria.com
Early Music Society of the Islands 250-882-5058 gov.bc.ca
Friends of Government House fghgs.ca
Friends of Music Society
250-592-5114 friendsofmusic.ca
Greater Victoria Festival Society 250-382-3111 gvfs.ca
Greater Victoria Folk Festival Society folktoria.ca
Greater Victoria Performing Arts Festival
250-386-9223 gvpaf.org
Intrepid Theatre Company Society 250-383-2663 intrepidtheatre.com
James Bay Market Society 250-381-5323 jamesbaymarket.com
La Societe Francophone De Victoria 250-388-7350 sfvictoria.ca
Langham Court Theatre 250-384-2142 langhamtheatre.ca
Maritime Museum of BC 250-385-4222 mmbc.bc.ca
MISSA International Summer School of the Arts 778-966-4772 missa.ca
Oak Bay Figure Skating Club oakbayfsc.ca
Open Space Arts Society 250-383-8833 openspace.ca
Pandora Arts Collective Society 250-920-7227 pandoraarts.ca
Royal BC Museum 250-387-7902 royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
Sooke Region Historical Society 250-642-6351 sookeregionmuseum.com
Soroptimist International of Victoria, Westshore sivw.ca
Vancouver Island Dirt Riders Association vancouverislanddirtriders.com
Victoria BC Ska & Reggae Society victoriaskafest.ca
Victoria Dragon Boat Festival Society 604-688-2382 victoriadragonboatfestival.com
Victoria Film Festival 250-389-0444 victoriafilmfestival.com
Victoria Symphony 250-385-9771 victoriasymphony.ca
Victoria Target Theatre Society targettheatre.ca
West Shore Arts Council 250-478-2286 westshorearts.org
Who volunteers and how much time do they contribute? By Province + Age
According to the 2018 General Social Survey on Giving, Volunteering, and Participating, over 24 million people Volunteered.
Almost eight in ten Canadians (79%) volunteered time to some form of pro-social activity during the one-year period prior to the survey. Just over two-fifths (41%) were formal volunteers, meaning they contributed time to charitable or nonprofit organizations, and about three-quarters were informal volunteers, meaning they volunteered their time directly without going through an organization. Nationally, formal volunteers contributed an average of 131 hours each, contributing a grand total of just under 1.7 billion volunteer hours annually to charitable and nonprofit organizations.
FORMS OF VOLUNTEERING
FORMAL VOLUNTEER RATE + AVERAGE HOURS BY AGE
FORMAL VOLUNTEER RATE + AVERAGE HOURS BY PROVINCE
For most provinces, the formal volunteer rate is at or slightly above the national rate. In comparison to the national ratios, it is higher in Saskatchewan (55%) and lower in Quebec (32%).
Canadians under the age of 45 contribute smaller proportions of total volunteer hours to charitable or nonprofit organizations than one would expect given their numbers. Driven by their tendency to contribute many hours when they volunteer, those 65 years of age and older account for significantly larger percentages of total volunteer hours to charitable or nonprofit organizations than one might expect given their numbers.
Source: General Social Survey on Giving, Volunteering and Participating, 2018, Statistics Canada.
This resource was developed with funding from
Intergenerational Volunteering Program
