Volunteer Program

The volunteer program has looked very different at different times in the past. At one time (‘80’s & early ‘90’s) parents were expected to volunteer at least 5 hours per month in addition to paying fees for all programs. Volunteer positions were available either in the classrooms or during classroom preparation, being on committees (Playroom Policy, Ways and Means, Local Advisory, Public Relations) or helping in the kitchen, making posters or wall displays, event planning, sewing, handyman jobs, bus monitor, field trips, phoning, help clean in classrooms etc. Families were also required to work one Bingo per year and asked to make a monthly food donation.

Norwood Child + Family Resource Centre has volunteer opportunities for people looking to gain experience for employment or education, meet new people, learn new skills, have fun and give back to their community. We believe that the involvement of people in a voluntary capacity is a significant asset to the services we provide. Volunteers bring an enthusiasm and vitality to the services and operations that infuse the organization. Recruitment of volunteers will be based upon position descriptions and corrosponding interests and qualifications. Volunteers will be assigned tasks and responsibilities that are suited to the individual’s skills and abilities. The screening of volunteers will incorporate interviews, reference checks, Children’s Services Information System checks, and Criminal Record checks. Norwood Child + Family Resource Centre requires that volunteers commit to scheduled work times and approach them with the same responsibilities as employees.

We want your time as a volunteer to be meaningful and satisfying to you. It is important to give some thought to volunteering before accepting a commitment and to remember that your contribution is important and that others are relying on you – so be sure to choose the right volunteer opportunity.

Some things that you may want to consider before making a commitment include:

• What do I know about Norwood Child + Family Resource Centre?
• Do I feel the work the agency is doing is important to the community?
• What skills or experience do I have to offer?
• Can I acquire any new skills within my volunteer position?
• How much of my time am I willing to commit to being a volunteering?
• Do I only want to commit to weekdays, evenings, or a onetime event?
• Will I agree to participate in program evaluations, record my hours and communicate easily with staff and other volunteers?

Click here for Volunteer Opportunities