Liam AndersonDo you have free time and want to help and connect in your community? Vancouver offers a variety of volunteer opportunities that can help you fulfill that desire.
In this list, we’ve wrapped up 30 options to help you find the perfect volunteer opportunity that matches your interests and passions. So, read on and start your journey of heartfelt giving in your Vancouver community.
- 1. Royal City Soccer Club
- 2. Drum Run Adventure Tour
- 3. Care BC
- 4. The Salvation Army Boundless Vancouver
- 5. Learning Buddies Network
- 6. Grandview Woodland Community Police
- 7. Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver
- 8. Wildlife Rescue Association BC
- 9. Chimo Community Services
- 10. Low Entropy Foundation
- 11. Iterate UX Foundation
- 12. The BeaYOUtiful Foundation
- 13. Cards of Care
- 14. Odihi
- 15. Parkinson Society British Columbia
- 16. Survey BC Seniors
- 17. Voirelia
- 18. S.U.C.C.E.S.S.
- 19. Disability Foundation
- 20. Kids Up Front
- 21. False Creek Rowing Club
- 22. Federation of Canadian Artists
- 23. Power To Be
- 24. Bard on the Beach
- 25. Hastings Sunrise Community Policing Centre
- 26. Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers
- 27. Vancouver Orphaned Kitten Rescue Association
- 28. Swim Drink Fish
- 29. Ally Global Foundation
- 30. Coast Mental Health
1. Royal City Soccer Club
Website: https://royalsoccer.com/
Address: 5175 Dumfries St Vancouver, BC V5P 3A2
Contact details: 604-438-8333
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Royal City Soccer Club is a non-profit organization that offers soccer programs for children aged 5 to 13. They’re known for hosting Canada’s largest grassroots summer soccer day camp and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle through sportsmanship.
Volunteer opportunities vary depending on your skills and interests, such as being a camp counselor to assist with activities and supervise campers. You can also help as an equipment manager with setting up equipment, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
| Pro tip: Participate in the pre-camp training and orientation sessions. This will prepare you for your role, familiarize you with camp procedures, and help you feel confident and ready to contribute. |
2. Drum Run Adventure Tour
Website: https://www.drumrun.org/
Contact details: https://www.drumrun.org/contact-us
The Drum Run Adventure Tour is a charitable initiative organized by the Rhythm of Life Society. Their mission is to use music and movement to create positive change in individuals and communities, focusing on supporting children’s health.
Some areas where volunteers contribute include setting up and breaking down event equipment, assisting with registration and logistics, facilitating activities, and fundraising for the organization and its mission.
| Pro tip: The Drum Run is about community and connection. Strike conversations with participants, volunteers, and organizers to know their stories. |
3. Care BC
Website: https://www.carebc.ca/
Address: 204 – 3077 Granville Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3J9
Contact details: 604-733-6614
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Care BC is a non-profit organization providing healthcare services to British Columbians since 1898. They focus on preventative and supportive care to help people live independently and comfortably in their homes.
Their core program is Meals on Wheels, where volunteers deliver nutritious meals and a friendly check-in to isolated seniors. Other volunteer opportunities include assisting with tasks like data entry, phone calls, fundraising events, and community outreach.
| Pro tip: If you speak Cantonese or Mandarin, you must deliver meals to Chinese-speaking clients. Take a few minutes to chat with each client you provide meals to, as it can brighten their day and make a lasting impact. |
4. The Salvation Army Boundless Vancouver
Website: https://salvationarmyvancouver.com/
Address: 060 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5L 3W9
Contact details: 604-872-7676
Operating hours: 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM
The Salvation Army Boundless Vancouver provides essential services and programs to individuals and families facing poverty, homelessness, addiction, and other challenges.
They offer various programs, including food assistance and self-sufficiency mentorship.
Volunteers can help serve meals in the soup kitchen, assist with food distribution, or help in mentorship and case management. You can also contribute by organizing and supervising children’s activities, fundraising and event planning.
| Pro tip: Explore their website and social media to understand their programs and current needs. This helps you choose the proper volunteer role and maximize your impact. |
5. Learning Buddies Network
Website: https://www.learningbuddiesnetwork.com/
Address: 27544 RPO Oakridge, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4M4, CA
Contact details: 604-738-4357
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Learning Buddies Network is a non-profit organization that helps elementary school students develop essential literacy and math skills through free one-on-one, after-school tutoring in a fun group setting.
You can be a literacy buddy tutoring in reading, writing, and comprehension or a math buddy helping you understand and practice math concepts. There are also group activities that you can facilitate so students can have more engaging learning activities.
| Pro tip: Students learn at their own pace, so offer positive reinforcement and celebrate their progress, no matter how small. Take the time to get to know each student and their needs to create a more impactful learning experience for both of you. |
6. Grandview Woodland Community Police
Website: https://www.gwcpc.ca/
Address: 1977 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A8
Contact details: 604-251-5432
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Grandview Woodland Community Police Centre is about assisting law enforcement and actively building a safer, more vibrant community through collaboration with community members.
Volunteer roles include administrative support, event planning, outreach programs and other youth initiatives. Your contribution, big or small, directly impacts community safety and well-being while meeting passionate neighbors and learning about local issues.
| Pro tip: Attend an orientation session and learn more about the organization’s mission, programs, and volunteer expectations. |
7. Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver
Website: https://www.bigbrothersvancouver.com/
Address: 845 Hornby St., Vancouver, BC V6Z 1X8
Contact details: 604-876-2447
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM
Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver empowers youth to reach their full potential through mentoring relationships. They provide crucial support and guidance to young people facing challenges, fostering positive choices and academic success.
You can volunteer as a Big Brother or Sister and be a positive role model, spending time with your Little in activities you enjoy. There are also group mentoring activities that you can participate in to create a social and supportive environment for the youth.
| Pro tip: The organization provides comprehensive training to prepare you for volunteering and ensure a successful match. Maintain regular communication with your Little and the staff to build trust and address any concerns promptly. |
8. Wildlife Rescue Association BC
Website: https://www.wildliferescue.ca/
Address: 5216 Glencairn Drive, Burnaby, BC V5B 3C1
Contact details: 604-526-7275
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
The Wildlife Rescue Association BC is a non-profit organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured, orphaned, and ill wildlife in British Columbia. They have been operating since 1979 and have helped over 130,000 animals.
You have volunteer options like animal care, education and outreach. This way, you’ll gain valuable experience in wildlife rehabilitation, animal care, teamwork, communication, and firsthand experience with wildlife and the environment.
| Pro tip: Begin with shorter volunteer stints to discover your niche and assess time commitment. After training, you can request direct animal care placements for a truly hands-on experience. |
9. Chimo Community Services
Website: https://chimoservices.com/
Address: 7891 Westminster Hwy, Richmond, BC V6X 1A2, Canada
Contact details: 604-279-7077
Operating hours: 24/7
Chimo has been serving the Vancouver community since 1973, helping individuals and families in crisis. Their services address diverse needs, from crisis intervention and counseling to legal advocacy, housing support, and newcomer settlement services.
Chimo values cultural diversity and offers services in twelve languages. You can explore opportunities like crisis support, counseling, family law advocacy, community engagement, education, and administrative support.
| Pro tip: They offer flexible volunteer schedules to accommodate different lifestyles. They also provide personal and professional growth opportunities through training workshops and ongoing support. |
10. Low Entropy Foundation
Website: https://lowentropy.org/
Address: 552 Clarke rd #408, Coquitlam, British Columbia, V3J 3X5, Canada
Contact details: 604-469-0226
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Low Entropy aims to enhance vulnerable individuals’ social and economic well-being, promote personal development, and build authentic connections. The organization tackles disadvantage, discrimination, and unequal access to opportunity.
Low Entropy offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, such as assisting with workshops and events, mentorship, and administrative support. You can even help with communication in diverse languages and organize community gatherings.
| Pro tip: Attend an orientation to understand better Low Entropy’s mission, values, and programs. Feel free to ask your supervisor for guidance and feedback. |
11. Iterate UX Foundation
Website: https://www.iterateux.com/
Address: 777 Dunsmuir St #1250, Vancouver, BC V7Y 1G6, Canada
Contact details: https://www.iterateux.com/get-involved#volunteer_section
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Iterate UX Foundation is a non-profit organization supporting UX designers at all stages of their careers. They offer hands-on learning programs, workshops, and resources, focusing on inclusivity and community building.
Volunteer roles often involve using and honing design-related skills, even if you’re not a professional designer. Choose from diverse opportunities like Discord moderation, tech support, or event organization, finding something that suits your interests and skills.
| Pro tip: Attend their weekly online networking meetings. These offer a fantastic opportunity to connect with other designers, learn from industry experts, and discover current trends and challenges in UX. |
12. The BeaYOUtiful Foundation
Website: https://thebeayoutifulfoundation.com/
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
With the BeaYOUtiful Foundation, you’ll directly contribute to building confidence and self-esteem in young girls. The Foundation’s core program pairs young girls with positive female role models from their communities.
As a volunteer, you can become a mentor, fostering meaningful connections and providing crucial guidance and support with diverse programs, including workshops, events, and online mentorship opportunities.
| Pro tip: Embrace the opportunity to learn from the girls and their experiences. Don’t miss the Inspired By HER Conference, an annual event celebrating the girls and their achievements. |
13. Cards of Care
Website: https://www.instagram.com/cards_of_care/
Cards of Care sends uplifting cards to seniors in social isolation across North America. They aim to spread positivity by showing someone you care through letters, artwork, or poetry.
You can donate handwritten letters, art digital cards or images to the organization, and they will send them to their partner retirement homes across the United States and Canada.
| Pro tip: You can also help sort and organize collected cards and assist with delivery to participating care facilities or individuals. |
14. Odihi
Website: https://www.odihi.com/
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Odihi aims to educate, equip, and empower black, indigenous women and girls of color by providing free educational resources and creating a safe space for learning and growth.
Potential volunteer activities include mentorship, where you guide and support women in their personal and professional development, or workshop facilitation, where you can share your knowledge on career development, financial literacy, or digital skills.
| Pro tip: You can help organize and run community events that foster connection and learning among women and girls. If you like working more on the back end, you can assist with tasks like data entry, social media management, or fundraising initiatives. |
15. Parkinson Society British Columbia
Website: https://www.parkinson.bc.ca/
Address: 890 West Pender Street, Suite 820, Vancouver, BC V6B 1G5
Contact details: 604-662-3240
Operating hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Parkinson Society British Columbia is a non-profit organization that provides support, education, and advocacy for people with Parkinson’s disease, their families, and caregivers. Their mission is to ensure no one feels alone on their journey.
As a volunteer, you can support individuals and families in navigating the challenges of Parkinson’s, offering companionship, empathy, and practical assistance. You can choose from administrative support, event planning or fundraising.
| Pro tip: Attend an information session or connect with their volunteer coordinator to learn more about the organization and ask any questions you might have. Once in action, be patient, offer emotional support, and adapt your communication style as needed. |
16. Survey BC Seniors
Website: https://surveybcseniors.org/
Address: 6th Floor, 1405 Douglas Street, PO Box 9651, STN PROV GOVT, Victoria BC, V8W 9P4
Contact details: 800-663-7867
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Survey BC Seniors is a province-wide initiative conducted by the Office of the Seniors Advocate in British Columbia. It aims to gather feedback on the quality of care and living conditions of seniors in long-term care facilities and their families.
Volunteering roles include being a surveyor who will conduct one-on-one interviews with residents in long-term care homes, collecting feedback on their experiences and concerns, or processing the quantitative data gathered from surveys.
| Pro tip: Remember, you’ll be interacting with seniors who may have varying levels of cognitive and physical abilities. Show patience, listen actively, and be respectful of their experiences. |
17. Voirelia
Website: https://voirelia.com/
Address: 1238 Seymour Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 6J3, Canada
Contact details: 604-606-6400
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Voirelia is a non-profit organization that brings dancers, artists, and scholars together in a supportive environment. They prioritize mental health and well-being, and their approach to dance is body-positive and inclusive.
Here, you can assist with choreography, set design, costume creation, or other artistic aspects of dance productions or help with logistics, promotion, ticket sales, or ushering for performances and workshops.
| Pro tip: Feel free to step outside your comfort zone and try something new, whether participating in a dance workshop or exploring philosophical concepts. |
18. S.U.C.C.E.S.S.
Website: https://successbc.ca/
Address: 28 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1R6
Contact details: 604-684-1628
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. stands for “United Chinese Community Enrichment Services Society.” It’s a non-profit social service organization in Vancouver that offers programs and services to newcomers, immigrants, refugees, and low-income individuals and families.
Some of the services they offer include newcomer settlement and English-language training. You can volunteer by helping with administrative tasks, providing translation services, assisting with special events, and mentoring newcomers.
| Pro tip: Remember that you’re interacting with people from different backgrounds and experiences. Be patient and understanding, and treat everyone with respect. |
19. Disability Foundation
Website: https://disabilityfoundation.org/
Address: 110-2285 Clark Drive, Vancouver, BC V5N 3G9
Contact details: 604-688-6464
Operating hours: Monday to Friday, -9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Disability Foundation aims to empower people with physical disabilities through outdoor recreation, social connection, and innovative technology. By volunteering, you directly contribute to this mission, making a real difference in people’s lives.
Volunteer options include helping with kayaking, camping, skiing, or other accessible activities, organizing and running social gatherings, creating a supportive community or contributing to initiatives that raise funds for the DF’s programs.
| Pro tip: Approach volunteering with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Your positive attitude and enthusiasm will make a significant contribution. |
20. Kids Up Front
Website: http://www.kidsupfrontvancouver.com/
Address: 1620 Alberni St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1A6, Canada
Contact details: 604-266-5437
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Kids Up Front provides enriching experiences to children and youth facing systemic barriers in Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. They work with over 100 child-serving community agencies to distribute tickets and passes to deserving kids.
Here, you can help collect donated tickets to sporting events, concerts, shows, and other events and distribute them to the children and their families. You can also help track the impact of their programs and share stories of the children they support.
| Pro tip: Whether during an event or while sorting tickets, engage with the kids, answer their questions, and share your enthusiasm. |
21. False Creek Rowing Club
Website: https://falsecreekrowingclub.ca/
Address: 1460 Charleson St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3W1, Canada
Contact details: 604-696-6218
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The False Creek Rowing Club is a non-profit, community-driven club fostering inclusivity and passion for rowing. They offer learn-to-row programs, recreational rowing, dragon boating, and youth camps, making them accessible to people.
Volunteer roles include steering boats, assisting with programs, guiding new paddlers, helping with administration, fundraising, events, or joining the board. So find roles that match your skills and interests, with a minimum 4-hour commitment per season.
| Pro tip: If you’re new to rowing, take their program to gain essential skills and experience firsthand. You should also attend social events, regattas, or volunteer gatherings to connect with fellow members and build lasting friendships. |
22. Federation of Canadian Artists
Website: https://artists.ca/
Address: 1241 Cartwright Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 4B7
Contact details: 604-681-2744
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Federation of Canadian Artists is a non-profit, national arts service organization supporting visual artists across Canada. They do this through exhibitions, professional development programs, advocacy, and art collection services.
As a volunteer, you can help manage the Federation Gallery in Vancouver, assisting with visitor engagement and exhibition setup. You can also share your skills to promote its initiatives through social media, website content, or outreach programs.
| Pro tip: Identify your interests and skills, build relationships, and create a supportive network within the arts community. |
23. Power To Be
Website: https://powertobe.ca/
Address: 4633 Prospect Lake Road, Victoria, BC, V9E 1J5
Contact details: 250-385-2363
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Power To Be is a non-profit organization that creates access to nature for youth, families, and adults living with cognitive, physical, financial, and social barriers. This therapy uses nature to help people improve their mental and emotional well-being.
You can be a Power To Be advocate for the rights of people with disabilities and raise awareness about the benefits of spending time in nature. By volunteering, you help ensure everyone can enjoy its benefits.
| Pro tip: Participate in a “Have A Go Day” and experience what Power To Be programs are like in a day of outdoor activities. You’ll also have to attend volunteer training to deepen your understanding of their mission, participant needs, and safety protocols. |
24. Bard on the Beach
Website: https://bardonthebeach.org/
Address: 1695 Lower Lonsdale Rd, Vancouver, BC V7G 1H4, Canada
Contact details: 604-739-0559
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Bard on the Beach is the largest professional Shakespeare festival in Western Canada and one of the largest in North America. By volunteering, you directly support the cultural vibrancy of Vancouver and make theatre accessible to a broader audience.
Choose from diverse roles like greeting audiences, ushering, assisting in the boutique or concessions, or offering event support. In the process, you can also meet passionate theatre enthusiasts, artists, and fellow volunteers, building your network and friendships.
| Pro tip: Take advantage of discounted tickets for volunteers to experience the productions you’re helping bring to life. Bard offers year-round volunteer opportunities outside the primary season, allowing you to stay connected with the theatre community. |
25. Hastings Sunrise Community Policing Centre
Website: https://hastingssunrisecpc.com/
Address: 2220 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5L 1Z2
Contact details: 604-717-3584
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Hastings Sunrise Community Policing Centre is a non-profit volunteer organization in partnership with the Vancouver Police Department. They offer programs and services, including crime prevention and safety education, community patrols and graffiti removal.
Through various programs, you can join community patrols to help deter crime and promote safety by walking alongside police officers or participate in clean-up initiatives to make your neighborhood beautiful by removing litter and graffiti.
| Pro tip: Be a community leader, report suspicious activity, and foster safety awareness. You can also support vulnerable populations and assist with initiatives that help seniors, youth, and individuals facing homelessness. |
26. Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers
Website: https://solvecrime.ca/
Contact details: 800-222-8477
Operating hours: 24/7
Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers is a non-profit organization that uses an anonymous tip line and online reporting system to receive information about criminal activity from the public and then pass it on to investigators without revealing the tipster’s identity.
Volunteering could help solve crimes, prevent harm, and bring criminals to justice. Through community outreach, you can help spread awareness about their program through presentations, event tabling, and engaging with the public.
| Pro tip: The anonymity of tipsters is crucial to the program’s success. Only share information about tips or tipsters within your authorized role. |
27. Vancouver Orphaned Kitten Rescue Association
Website: http://www.vokra.ca
Address: 2028 Wall St, Vancouver, BC V5L 1B1
Contact details: 604-253-9063
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Vancouver Orphaned Kitten Rescue Association is a no-kill, non-profit cat rescue organization. They operate a network of foster homes and run a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program to control the feral cat population humanely.
Here, you’ll be helping cats and kittens in need, providing them with love, care, and a chance at a happy forever home. You can also meet potential adopters, match them with suitable cats, and answer their questions.
| Pro tip: Each cat has unique needs and personalities, so be prepared to adapt and offer individualized care. You can also assist with transporting cats to vet appointments, foster homes, and adoption events. |
28. Swim Drink Fish
Website: http://www.swimdrinkfish.ca/
Address: 1806 Maritime Mews, Vancouver, BC V6H 3X2, Canada
Contact details: 604-685-0032
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Swim Drink Fish tackles a crucial issue – ensuring clean, healthy water for everyone to swim, drink, and fish in. Volunteer opportunities include water monitoring, data management, education and outreach and implementing advocacy programs.
Here, you’ll gain valuable knowledge and skills through citizen science activities like water monitoring, data collection, and analysis. You’ll also collaborate with passionate individuals who share your concern for healthy waters.
| Pro tip: Participate in a water monitoring event. This core activity allows you to directly engage with the issue, learn valuable skills, and make a tangible contribution. |
29. Ally Global Foundation
Website: https://ally.org/
Address: PO Box 46817, Vancouver, BC, V6J 5M4
Contact details: 778-807-2559
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Ally Global Foundation works to prevent human trafficking and help survivors find healing through safe housing, education and aftercare. They provide support to over 200 children rescued from human trafficking and abuse.
Ally offers diverse roles, allowing you to match your skills and interests, such as fundraising, education and awareness, administrative support or any talent you’d like to share to support their projects.
| Pro tip: Attend an orientation session to better understand Ally’s work, their impact, and how you can best contribute. You can also develop transferable communication, teamwork, and project management skills with the organization. |
30. Coast Mental Health
Website: https://www.coastmentalhealth.com/
Address: 293 East 11th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5T 2C4
Contact details: 604-872-3502
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Coast Mental Health is dedicated to supporting individuals living with mental illness. They provide a variety of programs and services based on the Psychosocial Rehabilitation model, promoting recovery and community integration.
Volunteer roles include peer support, where you can offer companionship, understanding, and encouragement to individuals on their recovery journey. You can also help facilitate creative workshops for self-expression and connection.
| Pro tip: Complete the volunteer training and gain essential knowledge and skills to serve Coast Mental Health clients effectively. Always respect confidentiality and maintain the privacy and dignity of clients at all times. |
