5 Alberta Volunteer Opportunities

Take some time out to volunteer while you're off for holidays this year.

The winter break is a great time to kick back and rejuvenate your body and mind. However, the holiday season is also about helping others and giving back. Why not use your weeks off to volunteer around your neighbourhood or city and make a difference in someone’s life? Christmas vacation is also a great time to stockpile those volunteer hours you may need in order to graduate. Here are some volunteering opportunities available this holiday season!

Children’s Cottage Society, Brenda’s House, Calgary SW


Why not use the holidays to kick-start a commitment to Brenda’s House, a transitional shelter designed to assist families who are facing homelessness. Brenda’s House is currently recruiting youth volunteers aged 16 years and older to assist with childcare. Volunteers get the opportunity to work directly with children and lead group programs and activities. 
More info: childrenscottage.ab.ca


The Salvation Army, 
throughout Alberta


The first charity that comes to mind during Christmas is usually the Salvation Army and its Christmas kettles. The Christmas kettles are a large part of the winter season’s fundraising and last year this program generated $18 million. As well as ringing bells for the Christmas kettles, by applying, individuals will also be able to assist in other Salvation Army initiatives. 
More info: salvationarmy.ca


The Mustard Seed, Edmonton 


The Mustard Seed is in need of volunteers to fulfill various positions, especially during the holiday season. Grab a small group of friends and head down to a Mustard Seed location to assist in sorting and organizing holiday donations. Or maybe you want to organize your school to prepare ‘mugs of joy,’ travel mugs filled with winter essentials such as hand warmers, socks and bus passes.
 More info: theseed.ca


Calgary Inter-Faith Food Bank, Calgary 


Many individuals rely on the support of the food bank. As well as donating non-perishable items to the food bank, youth over the age of 15 can volunteer at specific events that the food bank hosts, such as the Ikea Tree Lot event or the Stuff A Bus initiative. More info: calgaryfoodbank.com


Youth Central, Calgary


Youth Central is a great way for Calgary youth to get fully immersed and involved in the volunteering community. You apply by filling out a waiver and application form and then Youth Central sends out volunteering opportunities on a regular basis. There is no obligation or minimum amount of hours required, so why not register today? More info: youthcentral.com