First-time volunteers

So, you want to volunteer! But... where do you start? Here's a checklist to get you started.

Volunteering in three easy steps:

Ask yourself:

What do I expect from a volunteering experience?

What are my personal goals?

What are the talents, abilities and skills I want to share or develop?

When am I available?

How long of a commitment am I willing to make? (regular activity, short-term commitment, one-day event?)

What type of cause do I want to contribute to? Do I want to support a specific clientele? (If you had all the resources necessary, what problem would you want to solve? What would you do with your time? Your answers may point to a cause that matters to you.)

How far am I willing to travel? Do I want to volunteer close to home, close to work or school? What are my transportation needs?

What kind of environment do I prefer to work in? (indoors? outdoors?)

Virtual drop-ins are available via zoom to discuss opportunities that meet your goals and interests with a Volunteer Ambassador. Most students find the opportunity they are looking for at this stage!

Finding the right volunteer opportunity for you is not unlike finding a job. While volunteer listings are great to get you started, nothing stops you from being more pro-active.

If you know what cause you want to work for, research local organizations that work for this cause. Most non-profits have a website which lists volunteer opportunities. Don’t be afraid to contact the Volunteer Coordinator to offer assistance or propose a project!

Online resources such as the Volunteer Bureau of Montreal's database can facilitate your search.

Benefits of volunteering

Top ten most-cited benefits of volunteering

Students say that volunteering has allowed them to:

Explore career options
Develop interpersonal skills
Improve career-related skills
Gain experience which enhances their resume
Gain self-confidence by tackling new challenges in a supportive environment
Empower themselves by taking action to improve the world they live in
Contribute to a cause they care about (environment, literacy, human rights, integration of new immigrants, a specific health-related issue, etc.)
Enrich their lives by balancing their activities and connecting to their community
Network and meet new friends
Have fun!