Volunteers

Volunteers - What you need to know!

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Thank you for choosing to volunteer with SCHC. Volunteers are essential to the work we do and we appreciate you, your time and talents - we could not do what we do without you! Your volunteer efforts are immeasurably valuable to the SCHC clients, community and organization.
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All SCHC volunteers: 

• Uphold the values of the organization in all
  that they do. 
• Build relationships that are mutually respectful. 
• Provide services that are confidential, inclusive and accessible, within the scope of their role. 
• Through good boundaries and self-care, ensure their own wellness. 
  
  

Please Note: 

• Good communication skills, and basic knowledge of English is needed. 
• Sensitivity to diverse cultures and socio-economic backgrounds is expected. 
• SCHC is a safe and welcome place for members of the LGBTQ community. 
• All volunteers receive a volunteer ID badge to wear while on duty. 
• Communication is essential – if for any reason you are unable to make a shift or fulfill your volunteer role, please inform your program supervisor. 
• Unfortunately, we are unable to provide TTC fare.

Lori Beesley, Coordinator of Volunteer Engagement

• We encourage you to meet with your main contact on a regular basis for feedback. You may ask to take on a wider range of tasks, or connect with me to explore other volunteer opportunities that could further develop and enhance your skills!

Volunteering to get more experience

​In addition to making a meaningful contribution to the community, many people volunteer to gain valuable experience. Volunteering is an excellent opportunity to develop the skills and professional networks needed for advancing your career. It also provides wonderful personal training since it might expose you to confidential information, and this develops a chance to develop  growth in the areas of trust and respect. As a volunteer you can explore different programs to prepare for paid work:

• Be sure to volunteer in an organization or program that matches your career goals. For example, if you are interested in being a seniors' personal care worker, volunteer in an organization or program serving seniors.
• While volunteering, be proactive and set up informal interviews with program staff about your career goals in order to seek their advice and insights. 
• Gain a sense of accomplishment and flexibility in role assignment by demonstrating your reliability.
• If you are a newcomer, pay close attention to the “work culture” because it may differ from the culture of your country of origin.
• If a paid position becomes available at the organization you are volunteering with, do not hesitate to apply. Many organizations would be eager to hire a familiar applicant who has demonstrated dedication, enthusiasm and has good work ethics.

Happy volunteering!