A city where volunteering and community involvement are a chosen way of life.

Why is this important?

By contributing time, energy, and skills to their community, people gain a greater sense of belonging and connection. They are more likely to care for their environments and the people around them; imagine less graffiti, more local shopping, less crime, more block parties, and increasing community pride. This is especially important in a rapidly growing city like Airdrie, where we are seeing the strains of growth and below-average levels of community volunteerism.

The research shows that volunteers are more likely to lead connected lives, improving their personal well-being and sense of meaning. As a result, we see less social isolation which is often linked to stress and to poor health – this will reduce health care costs. Imagine the improved impact for social benefit organizations, whose strong volunteer base makes them more able to deliver on their mandates! We are working towards an inclusive and neighbourly Airdrie that is well-known for its caring citizens who make a difference wherever they can.

Many organizations require volunteers for office administration assistance such as reception duties, typing and research. Organizations often seek volunteers to help out at busy times with publicity campaigns or fundraising drives. Potential activities can include reception and administrative work, computing, managing a committee, and much more. 

Do you love the outdoors? Are you passionate about a the environment? We may not always have the weather – but that doesn’t hold back thousands of volunteers from volunteering throughout the year! Activities include beautification, public engagement and teaching. 

There are lots of amazing ways to volunteer in the arts. You can volunteer by teaching, coaching, set design and assisting with a variety of arts and crafts from fine art to card making. If you’re musical, you can volunteer as a musician at a local nursing home or community centre. Of course, you don’t necessarily have to be artistic to volunteer in the arts – why not help out behind the scenes with a local theatre group or promote an arts project in your area.

Befriending/mentoring can offer volunteers the opportunity to provide support and friendship to a person who may be going through a difficult period, is feeling lonely, or is adjusting to a major change in their life. Potential activities can include meeting with a client to go shopping or visiting a client who might be isolated in their community to have a chat over a cup of coffee.

Looking to develop or actively demonstrating your leadership skills (board service looks great on a resume or CV!) Getting a behind-the-scenes look at internal organizational systems such as nonprofit management, human resources, fundraising and resource development, and volunteer resource management.

Are you passionate about making our community a better place for all of us to live in? These opportunities are focused on exactly that! 

Counselling/listening volunteers can provide practical and emotional support to others who are enduring a difficult time or recovering from a traumatic experience. There are lots of ways to volunteer and help, from counselling those suffering from depression to lending an ear to someone in any type of emotional distress. Volunteering roles are available for both qualified counselors any anyone interested in providing support.

Events and stewarding volunteers are often the face of festivals, events and community gatherings, provide a warm welcome to event attendees helping to ensure events run smoothly and safely. 

Do you love the outdoors? Are you passionate about a sport? We may not always have the weather – but that doesn’t hold back thousands of volunteers from volunteering throughout the year! There are lots of fantastic opportunities to volunteer and supervise and/or coach participants in a host of sporting/outdoor activities. Activities often include coaching, facilitating, and enjoying everything from abseiling to athletics. 

Volunteering opportunities in teaching are available across all age groups and an assortment of organizations and causes.   Potential volunteering activities include literacy tutoring, leaving certificate student support, and many others.

Are you passionate about enabling young people to find their voice and develop? Volunteering opportunities in youth work include a wide range of activities concerned with supporting children and young people. A few examples of volunteering activities in this area include: supervising young people, becoming a leader in a youth club, facilitating art workshops, being a positive role model for a young person, and many more!