Holiday Volunteering: Lending a Hand, With the season of giving almost upon us, consider the ultimate gesture

With school, work, and family, or in some cases all three, it can be hard to find time for things that aren’t essential to your daily routine. And when the stars align, and you find yourself with a free Saturday afternoon, the last thing you probably want to do is spend it for example, volunteering. We’ve all been there, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But, for the sake of argument, let us try and convince you that volunteering, believe it or not, can be worth your while. We hope you will find an opportunity of interest in this list of eight volunteering jobs available this year in St. Albert.

1. Alberta Health Services Home Care Friendly Visitor 

Volunteers are matched for social companionship with clients of the Alberta Health Services Home Care program who are living in their own homes. Volunteers choose their client based on interests, availability, and location and are asked to give approximately one hour a week of volunteer time. Applicants are required to do an interview, provide references and undergo a criminal record check and vulnerable sector search.

2. Art Gallery of St. Albert Special Events Volunteer

Assisting at public exhibition opening receptions, the Special Event Volunteer meets the public as they enter the gallery, records visitor numbers, and distributes general exhibition and gallery information to those entering and leaving the building. Other duties include assisting with the preparation of refreshments, supervising other areas of the gallery such as the Art Rental and Sales Gallery, and assisting with the take down and cleanup of the event. The gallery staff is especially looking for candidates who are energetic, enthusiastic, friendly and comfortable initiating contact with the public.

3. Canadian National Institute for the Blind Vision Mate

Vision Mate volunteers provide one-on-one companionship and general support to a person who is blind or partially sighted. Approved activities may include going on walks, helping with errands such as shopping and organizing, recreational activities, and friendly visiting. The time commitment for this volunteer opportunity is approximately two hours every week for a minimum of six months. Part of the screening process is an interview, a list of references and a criminal record check.

4. Clean Up Activities Volunteer

Venture out into your local schoolyard, park, or greenspace to pick up litter and help spruce up St. Albert. To apply, complete the online form found on the city’s website to participate in schoolyard, natural area, or neighbourhood cleanups.

5. Emergency Reception Centre Volunteer

Assist with operations of the ERC with one of the following possible functions: meet & greet, registration and referral, meal distribution, scribe, runner, or other assistants. Volunteers need to have excellent interpersonal communication skills when working individually or as part of a group and be outgoing and enthusiastic. You’ll need to prove that you’re not only reliable and professional but also submit to a criminal record check.

6. Khan Communication Services CHATTER Program Volunteer

CHATTER is a group-therapy program for kids and teens with autism spectrum disorder and other speech-language delays. High school and university volunteers are invited to help program participants build their communication, language, and social skills. While CHATTER is looking for students, applicants must be enrolled in Grade 9 or higher.

7. Mission Ridge Stables Therapeutic Riding Assistant

Volunteers will help with getting horses ready, miniature horse agility, crafts, and leading and side-walking during lessons. Volunteers may also have an opportunity to work with the horses after lessons. While no experience is necessary, you must be at least 14 to apply.

8. St. Albert Seniors Association Transportation Driver

Help seniors get to their medical appointments and benefit their health and wellness. As the program comes at no cost to riders, you’re helping those with limited financial resources get the medical services they need to stay healthy, as well as providing companionship to and from these appointments. Interested people must be at least 21 years old with their own personal vehicles, have a Class 5 driver’s license as well as updated insurance and registration. The tasks will require someone with at least five years of driving experience and at least a three-year clean driving record period. Prospects must agree to do an interview and agree to a criminal record check and a vulnerable sector search. t8n