YOU can make a difference!
Our volunteers are at the heart of our programs and they find great reward in helping others with their literacy needs. We couldn’t do it without them.
Become A Volunteer
1. APPLY. Fill out the online application form below or download the pdf version and return with 2 references.
2. INTERVIEW. We want to meet you and learn more about your interests! You will be sent an email outlining the appointment times available.
3. ATTEND AN ORIENTATION AND TRAINING. This is where you will sign the volunteer agreement, and learn more about your role as a volunteer with the Society. This is also an opportunity to learn more specifics of the program you will be volunteering for. From time to time, additional in-service learning opportunities may be provided.
4. CLEAR A CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK. These are free for volunteers and assistance will be provided if needed.
5. RECEIVE YOUR ASSIGNMENT. You will be placed in your program of choice. Sometimes there are logistical delays. We will do our best to get you started as soon as possible or we will offer you other opportunities in the meantime.
REMEMBER: We are here to support you on your volunteer journey!
Current Opportunities
We are currently recruiting for all programs with an immediate need for our Skills Boost program.
Job Descriptions
DIGITAL LITERACY VOLUNTEER
READING TOGETHER VOLUNTEER
READING TOGETHER SCHOOL COORDINATOR
SKILLS BOOST VOLUNTEER
Application Form
Alternatively, download the PDF version, fill and send to info@literacysociety.ca
Volunteer Availability
Volunteers will generally need to have the following availability for our current programs.
Reading Together Volunteers
• October to June – as per school schedule
• 1 – 1.5 hr session per week Mon-Thurs, mornings or afternoon during school hours
Skills Boost Volunteers
• October to May – as per school schedule
• 1 – 2 hr session per week, Tues or Thursday, 2:30pm – 4:30pm, afterschool
Digital Literacy Volunteers
• September – June, some summer sessions offered
• 1 – 2 hr session per week (one hour per learner), Tues, Wed, Thurs or Sats
• And/or workshop assistant (about 3 hrs per session) – various days and times
Events
• Various days/times, some Saturdays
Reading Together Training
Training Session Dates:
TBA
Digital Literacy Training
Training Session Dates:
TBA
Skills Boost Training
Training Session Dates:
TBA
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What if I can’t commit to a regular schedule?
Depending on the program you volunteer for, there is some flexibility in scheduling. Or perhaps you would prefer to sign up to help at a special event or join a committee?
Q. What if I go away for the winter or on an extended holidays?
Not a problem. Just let your coordinator know in advance so they can find a replacement while you are away.
Q. I have mobility challenges. Will this prevent me from volunteering?
Most or all of the sites we provide programming at or have volunteers attend are mobility-friendly, with the exception of some elementary schools. Let your coordinator know what your needs are and efforts will be made to place you in more accessible locations.
Q. I have some digital skills, but I’m not an expert. Is there training?
None of our volunteers are experts and all of our volunteers attend a training session with the Program Coordinator. Most of our digital volunteers are more comfortable with one operating system over another. We match your skills as closely as we can to the needs of the learner. There are also resources and tools available for you to hone up on if needed. Additionally, you may want to assist at workshops where you will learn more of the basics and/or learn more about another operating system. Because you are working with beginners, the learning tasks requested are very fundamental. No one is expected to work outside of the scope of their abilities.
Q. Will I have to get up in front of people?
No. There are no instances where you will need to get up in front of people unless you chose to become a digital workshop facilitator. Some of our school-based volunteer coordinators in the Reading Together program will take on more of a leadership role, but will only be meeting infrequently in an informal setting.
We would like to acknowledge the support we have received to enhance our Volunteer Program in 2023-24. The Volunteer Program Enhancement Project is funded by the Government of Canada under the Community Services Recovery Fund.
