Volunteering in Calgary
Summary: A great way to meet others in Calgary is by volunteering. Here are several organizations where you may be interested in helping out.
Moving to a new city can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be challenging to build a social network. Volunteering is a wonderful way to meet like-minded individuals, give back to the community, and even learn new skills. Calgary, known for its vibrant culture and natural beauty, offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities for expats. Here are some organizations where you might be interested in volunteering.
Calgary Food Bank
The Calgary Food Bank is a charitable organization dedicated to gathering and distributing quality emergency food to those in need. Volunteers can help with sorting and packing food, assisting with food drives, or working in the office. The time commitment varies, with shifts typically lasting 3-4 hours. This is a great opportunity to make a direct impact on the local community.
Website: calgaryfoodbank.com
Location(s): 5000 11 Street SE, Calgary
Time Commitment: 3-4 hours per shift
Calgary Public Library
The Calgary Public Library offers various volunteering opportunities for those who love books and helping others. Volunteers can assist with programs, events, and day-to-day operations. The time commitment is flexible, with shifts ranging from 2-4 hours per week. This is an excellent way to meet fellow book lovers and contribute to the city's literary scene.
Website: calgarylibrary.ca
Location(s): Various branches throughout Calgary
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Calgary Zoo
Animal lovers might want to consider volunteering at the Calgary Zoo. Volunteers can help with educational programs, special events, and animal care. The zoo requires a minimum commitment of 50 hours per year. This is a unique opportunity to learn about wildlife and conservation efforts.
Website: calgaryzoo.com
Location(s): 210 St. George's Drive NE, Calgary
Time Commitment: Minimum 50 hours per year
Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta
Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization that builds affordable housing for families in need. Volunteers can help with construction, office work, or in the ReStore. No previous construction experience is required. The time commitment varies, with shifts typically lasting 4-8 hours.
Website: habitatsouthernab.ca
Location(s): Various locations throughout Southern Alberta
Time Commitment: 4-8 hours per shift
The Mustard Seed
The Mustard Seed is a Christian non-profit organization that provides support to individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness. Volunteers can help with meal services, sorting donations, or mentoring programs. The time commitment is flexible, with shifts ranging from 2-4 hours.
Website: themustardseed.ca
Location(s): 102 11 Avenue SE, Calgary
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per shift
Calgary Humane Society
The Calgary Humane Society is dedicated to helping animals in need. Volunteers can assist with animal care, adoptions, and special events. The society requires a minimum commitment of 6 months. This is a great opportunity for animal lovers to make a difference.
Website: calgaryhumane.ca
Location(s): 4455 110 Avenue SE, Calgary
Time Commitment: Minimum 6 months
Meals on Wheels Calgary
Meals on Wheels is a non-profit organization that delivers nutritious meals to individuals who are unable to obtain or prepare their own meals. Volunteers can help with meal delivery, office work, or special events. The time commitment is flexible, with shifts typically lasting 2-4 hours.
Website: mealsonwheels.com/calgary/
Location(s): 5759 80 Avenue SE, Calgary
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per shift
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary and Area
Big Brothers Big Sisters is a mentoring organization that pairs volunteers with children and youth. Volunteers can help with one-on-one mentoring, group programs, or special events. The time commitment varies, with mentoring relationships typically requiring a few hours per week. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a positive impact on a young person's life.
Website: calgary.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
Location(s): Various locations throughout Calgary
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
Inn from the Cold
Inn from the Cold is a non-profit organization that provides emergency shelter, support, and programs to homeless children and their families. Volunteers can help with meal preparation, childcare, or administrative tasks. The time commitment is flexible, with shifts ranging from 2-4 hours.
Website: innfromthecold.org
Location(s): 110 11 Avenue SE, Calgary
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per shift
Calgary Drop-In Centre
The Calgary Drop-In Centre is a non-profit organization that provides shelter, housing, and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness. Volunteers can help with meal services, sorting donations, or recreational activities. The time commitment is flexible, with shifts typically lasting 2-4 hours.
Website: calgarydropin.ca
Location(s): 1 Dermot Baldwin Way SE, Calgary
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per shift
Lougheed House
Lougheed House is a historic site and museum dedicated to preserving and interpreting Calgary's history. Volunteers can help with tours, programs, and special events. The time commitment is flexible, with shifts typically lasting 3-4 hours. This is a great opportunity for history enthusiasts to share their passion with others.
Website: lougheedhouse.com
Location(s): 707 13 Avenue SW, Calgary
Time Commitment: 3-4 hours per shift
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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