Volunteer
Join our community of over 100 volunteers who reach out to help children, youth and families across Toronto. Volunteering is more than just sharing your time and passion, it’s about the satisfaction of knowing you are helping people become stronger, giving back to your community and gaining valuable work experience that will enhance your career opportunities.
Engaging the community on an ongoing basis, and in every possible way, is an integral part of the Catholic Children’s Aid Society’s (CCAS) mission to protect children and strengthen family life. Volunteers are partners with staff, foster caregivers, families, children and youth in carrying out the Society’s Mission. Fulfillment of this vision of giving in partnership contributes to a better community for all.
Volunteer to be a Youth Mentor: Do you like planning age appropriate events that are educational and recreational? Would you like to help a young person boost their self-confidence? As a Youth Mentor you will be spending time with a young person on a regular basis, serving as a role model and providing emotional support.
Volunteer to be a Homework Helper: Do you have skills in Math, Literacy, Science and History? Do you enjoy learning and helping others learn? As a Homework Helper you are helping a child or youth advance their academic pursuits.
Volunteer to be a Driver: Are you an experienced driver with your own car and enjoy working with children? Your transportation services will enable children and youth to visit with family, attend professional appointments or group activities. Mileage and parking expenses will be reimbursed.
Volunteer to help with Ad-hoc Corporate Services: Do you enjoy special event planning, organizing, sorting and all things Admin? We have several projects and events throughout the year that require support.
Volunteer Orientation: Orientation sessions provide you with an overview of CCAS’s mission, programs, services, and goals. Volunteers must attend an orientation session prior to beginning their volunteer assignment.
All sessions are held at 2206 Eglinton Ave. E., Toronto, ON (Major Intersection – Birchmount & Eglinton)
Volunteer Meetings and Training: All sessions are held at 2206 Eglinton Ave. E., Toronto, ON (Major Intersection – Birchmount & Eglinton)
Volunteer FAQs
Yes, in accordance with our workplace policy, all volunteers must be fully vaccinated to participate/assist in any of our programs. If you have any questions, please contact the Coordinator, Volunteer Services at 416-395-1500.
You should be at least 18 years old in order to qualify for a volunteer role with CCAS. However, we encourage youth 15 years+ to participate in our volunteer program through our tutoring/Homework Club Program. Youth under the age of 18 must supply us with a signed parental consent.
That depends on the volunteer role you select. It can range from three or four hours per month to 15 or 20. We can help you make a realistic time commitment that fits your schedule. Short-term commitment is also possible for special projects which require occasional help, such as special events.
We have plenty of opportunities for you to take on new challenges.
Yes. You can request a reference letter from your Volunteer Coordinator. References are a valuable part of employment applications or resume. A reference letter can be requested after volunteering for six months in an assignment.
Yes. Our Volunteer Services are run by staff who inspire, train and support all volunteers. You will have the benefit of attending orientation sessions for new volunteers. You may also receive additional orientation (e.g. Drivers and Child Access Volunteers), or specialized training to develop skills necessary for a particular assignment. Ongoing training and professional support are also offered in the form of workshops, seminars and supervision.
You will gain personal satisfaction from helping others, new skills, knowledge and experience. This will also enhance your resume, and our reference letters can support your employment or university applications.
The application process includes:
- Completing an application form and a questionnaire
- Providing a signed parental consent if you are under 18 years of age
- Consenting to a Police Records Check
- Providing names, phone numbers and addresses of three individuals for references. One reference can be a family member and the individuals should have known you for at least two years.
- Attending a personal interview with one of our Volunteer Services Coordinators
- Complete the Volunteer Orientation Training Session
- Signing and abiding by an Oath of Confidentiality
- Sign consent to a Child Welfare Check
- Complete AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with a Disability Act) training
Call 416-395-1500 to let us know you’d like to volunteer.
