Volunteering in Canada

Grow Your Skills. Build Connections. Find Your Path. 

Whether you are new to Canada, just starting your career, or simply want to get involved – volunteering is a powerful way to gain experience, explore your interests, and become part of your community. 

Why Volunteering Matters? 

• Build Canadian experience for your resume 
• Improve communication skills and workplace confidence 
• Learn Canadian work culture in a supportive environment 
• Meet people and build valuable relationships 
• Gain potential references for future jobs or internships 
• Explore new fields and discover what kind of work you enjoy 
• Make a difference – in your own life and your community 

Where to Start: Volunteer Resources by Interest 

Healthcare & Wellness 

• BC Children’s Hospital 
• Vancouver Coastal Health 
• Stroke Recovery BC 
• Canadian Red Cross 

Animals & Nature 

• SBCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) – spca.bc.ca 
• Vokra Cats – vokra.ca 
• Habitat for Humanity – habitatgv.ca (sustainability + construction + teamwork) 

Libraries & Learning 

• Friends of the Vancouver Public Library 
• NewToBC 

Community, Mental Health & Support 

• BC211 – Connects volunteers with social services across BC: uwbc.ca 
• Volunteer opportunities across Vancouver: 
• GoVolunteer 
• CharityVillage 
• VolunteerMatch 
• City of Vancouver 

Connect Your Studies to Real-World Impact / Volunteering Ideas Tailored to Your Program 

• Business – Non-profit administration, event logistics, marketing or fundraising campaigns 
• IT – Tech literacy support, web development for community organizations, hackathons 
• Hospitality – Guest services, event hosting, food bank operations, cultural events 
• Global Affairs & Humanities – Language exchange programs, cultural advocacy, refugee support 
• Liberal Arts – Arts and culture festivals, museums and galleries, literacy tutoring, research assistant roles with NGOs 
• Leadership – Student club executive roles, orientation leader, youth mentorship programs, planning community initiatives or fundraisers 
• Cybersecurity – Assist with digital safety workshops for seniors or schools, volunteer with non-profits needing basic tech or security audits, contribute to open-source security projects 
• Human Resources – Help with volunteer onboarding, recruitment support for non-profits, support resume clinics, assist with organizing training or professional development events 

Tips to Find the Right Opportunity 

• Start with your passion – sports, animals, the environment, education, healthcare.
  • Love sports? Look out for FIFA World Cup 2026 volunteer calls
  • Love animals? Try Vokra Cats or SPCA
  • Love creativity? Volunteer at festivals or arts organizations 
• Be curious: you do not have to be an expert to contribute, volunteering is for learning 
• Be yourself: your unique perspective is a strength 
• Ask for support: FDU Career Services can help you tailor your resume and application 

Book an appointment with a Career Advisor through the Career Services Hub to get guidance on finding valuable volunteering opportunities, build your experience, and make meaningful connections. If you’re interested in volunteering with Career Services for upcoming events, be sure to fill out our Volunteer Interest Form.