Volunteer
Centred Content
Volunteers are valued members of our team! Each day, volunteers give their time to make a difference in the lives of children, youth, and their families.
Volunteers play an important role in the services Huron-Perth Children’s Aid Society provide. Volunteer contributions provide an important link between the agency and the community that we serve.
Why Volunteer with HPCAS?
Volunteers at HPCAS make a difference in the lives of children and youth by:
- helping them to stay connected with their families and additional supports
- supporting learning and the development of important academic and life skills
- providing safety and security when in our care
- building positive experiences and demonstrating the act of caring
Centred Content
Steps to Becoming a Volunteer with HPCAS
If you have questions or are interested in becoming a volunteer with Huron-Perth Children’s Aid Society, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at 519-271-5290 or 1-800-668-5094 ext. 2341 or teamvolunteer@h-pcas.ca
After speaking with our Volunteer Coordinator, the following must be completed:
- HPCAS Volunteer Application Package
- Children Protection Information Network Record Check
- Criminal & Vulnerable Sector’s Police Check
- 3 non-familial Reference checks (at least 2 professional)
- Additional signed agreements of understanding pertaining to the volunteer role
- Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act – online training
All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age, with the exception of drivers who must be a minimum of 21 years old.
Current Opportunities
This position is the thread of our agency. Driver’s help transport children and youth to access visits, school and appointments. This position is very flexible, and mileage is reimbursed.
The Ignite program is a creative learning program designed to Ignite Curiosity, Ignite Creativity and Ignite Confidence. As a Mentor you will be paired with a child to explore fun weekly activities hosted by the Ignite Program at the Stratford site. Engage together in science experiments, baking, creative art and more.
The Ignite Program is a blend of group programming and individual connections between the Mentee and the assigned Ignite Mentor. The Ignite Mentor and Mentee will spend quality time building connection and enjoying similar interests together in the community. The Mentor will serve as a positive role model in the child’s life. At the end of each month, all enrolled Mentor’s and Mentee’s will gather in Clinton for a creative group program hosted by staff. This blend of programming encourages connection, community, and friendships for everyone in the Ignite Program.
In the Garden Mentor role, you will be responsible for transporting children and youth to the Stratford Community Garden to work in the garden together. Each week, your duties will include planting, harvesting, weeding, watering, and general maintenance. All tools and supplies will be provided for you. In this program, we strive for the Garden Mentor to share their knowledge and passion for gardening with a child. It is an opportunity for leaning and to build connections and lifelong skills.
Provides unique support based on a specific need and volunteer skill set.
Let’s Get Social
2 hours ago
Join us this Wednesday for another great Kinder Cookers session, in partnership with EarlyON! 🍓
You and your children are invited to learn some quick afternoon snack recipes they'll love to make — and eat! All ingredients are provided.
Register with your KEyON account or… scan the QR code.
We hope to see you there!
#HPCAS #EarlyON
Join us this Wednesday for another great Kinder Cookers session, in partnership with EarlyON! 🍓
You and your children are invited to learn some quick afternoon snack recipes they'll love to make — and eat! All ingredients are provided.
Register with your KEyON account or… scan the QR code.
We hope to see you there!
#HPCAS #EarlyON
6 hours ago
We're celebrating Kinship & Alternate Care Awareness Week, recognizing the important role of kinship and alternate caregivers in our community.
For those who may not know yet, kinship and alternate caregivers are the relatives, community members, teachers, coaches and neighbours …who step up to support children and families when needed.
This also includes customary care – an inherent Indigenous practice of care and supervision of a First Nations, Inuit, or Métis child by someone who is not the child's parent, to prioritize keeping Indigenous children connected to their culture and communities.
Kinship and alternate caregivers help children maintain their sense of identity and belonging through family- and community-based care. Their support is especially meaningful for Indigenous, Black and overrepresented families who face systemic barriers and discrimination. Most children remain at home with support, and when alternate care is needed, kin and community caregivers are there to provide loving, culturally-connected spaces honouring family traditions and community ties.
Join us to celebrate the amazing caregivers opening their hearts and homes to support children and youth, letting them stay connected to what matters most – their family and community roots.
To learn more about kinship and alternative care, please visit our website at the link in our bio @huronperthcas
#HPCAS #Kinship
We're celebrating Kinship & Alternate Care Awareness Week, recognizing the important role of kinship and alternate caregivers in our community.
For those who may not know yet, kinship and alternate caregivers are the relatives, community members, teachers, coaches and neighbours …who step up to support children and families when needed.
This also includes customary care – an inherent Indigenous practice of care and supervision of a First Nations, Inuit, or Métis child by someone who is not the child's parent, to prioritize keeping Indigenous children connected to their culture and communities.
Kinship and alternate caregivers help children maintain their sense of identity and belonging through family- and community-based care. Their support is especially meaningful for Indigenous, Black and overrepresented families who face systemic barriers and discrimination. Most children remain at home with support, and when alternate care is needed, kin and community caregivers are there to provide loving, culturally-connected spaces honouring family traditions and community ties.
Join us to celebrate the amazing caregivers opening their hearts and homes to support children and youth, letting them stay connected to what matters most – their family and community roots.
To learn more about kinship and alternative care, please visit our website at the link in our bio @huronperthcas
#HPCAS #Kinship
3 days ago
Some exciting news to share as our team was recently featured on myFM discussing how Kindness Kits are making a real difference for local families!
Our Executive Director Kristian Wilson and Volunteer Coordinator Trish Harris explained how the initiative directly support neighbours who …may be quietly struggling behind closed doors, with tailored packages providing things like school supplies and groceries, safety items and fresh start essentials.
Our work at the agency goes far beyond just child protection, and we're so proud of our team for supporting children, youth and families in every type of way. Beyond Kindness Kits, we operate nearly 30 programs supporting families across Huron and Perth counties helping to build stronger, healthier and happier homes.
Check out the full myFM feature here: exetertoday.ca/2025/09/07/77564/
And visit the link in our bio for more information on how to donate toward a Kindness Kit!
#HPCAS #KindnessKits #myFM #CommunitySupport
Some exciting news to share as our team was recently featured on myFM discussing how Kindness Kits are making a real difference for local families!
Our Executive Director Kristian Wilson and Volunteer Coordinator Trish Harris explained how the initiative directly support neighbours who …may be quietly struggling behind closed doors, with tailored packages providing things like school supplies and groceries, safety items and fresh start essentials.
Our work at the agency goes far beyond just child protection, and we're so proud of our team for supporting children, youth and families in every type of way. Beyond Kindness Kits, we operate nearly 30 programs supporting families across Huron and Perth counties helping to build stronger, healthier and happier homes.
Check out the full myFM feature here: exetertoday.ca/2025/09/07/77564/
And visit the link in our bio for more information on how to donate toward a Kindness Kit!
#HPCAS #KindnessKits #myFM #CommunitySupport
3 days ago
We're looking for contract tutors to help children and youth meet their full potential!
If you have an educational background and want to make a difference, please get in touch. You can choose the grade levels you're comfortable with, and you will receive compensation for your …mileage and time!
Contact Gayle at gaylevanaltena@h-pcas.ca for more information.
#HPCAS #Education #Tutoring
We're looking for contract tutors to help children and youth meet their full potential!
If you have an educational background and want to make a difference, please get in touch. You can choose the grade levels you're comfortable with, and you will receive compensation for your …mileage and time!
Contact Gayle at gaylevanaltena@h-pcas.ca for more information.
#HPCAS #Education #Tutoring
4 days ago
Yesterday, HPCAS staff gathered for another meaningful and inspiring event with Rami Shami blending education, reflection, and celebration.
The session challenged us to think deeply about resilience and healing through the art of Kintsugi – the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery …with gold. It was a beautiful metaphor for healing, transformation, and the strength found in imperfection.
We also proudly recognized our dedicated team members during the Staff Years of Service Awards. Their commitment and compassion continue to shape the heart of our organization and the lives of those we serve.
Thank you to everyone who made this day so impactful. Here's to growth, connection, and the golden threads that bind us together 🏆
#HPCAS #RamiShami #StaffAppreciation #Kintsugi
Yesterday, HPCAS staff gathered for another meaningful and inspiring event with Rami Shami blending education, reflection, and celebration.
The session challenged us to think deeply about resilience and healing through the art of Kintsugi – the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery …with gold. It was a beautiful metaphor for healing, transformation, and the strength found in imperfection.
We also proudly recognized our dedicated team members during the Staff Years of Service Awards. Their commitment and compassion continue to shape the heart of our organization and the lives of those we serve.
Thank you to everyone who made this day so impactful. Here's to growth, connection, and the golden threads that bind us together 🏆
#HPCAS #RamiShami #StaffAppreciation #Kintsugi
4 days ago
The Exemplary Service and Spirit Award is an annual award presented to an individual who embodies the core values of our organization through their unwavering dedication, positive attitude and commitment to excellence. The award celebrates those who not only excel in their individual contributions …but who also elevate the entire team and our community through their service and spirit.
This year's recipient is the amazing Joanne Shand, who always exudes positivity, champions teamwork, shows dedication to the organization and our community and embraces a growth mindset. We're proud to have her on our team.
Congratulations Joanne, and thank you for all you do! 👏
#HPCAS #EmployeePride
The Exemplary Service and Spirit Award is an annual award presented to an individual who embodies the core values of our organization through their unwavering dedication, positive attitude and commitment to excellence. The award celebrates those who not only excel in their individual contributions …but who also elevate the entire team and our community through their service and spirit.
This year's recipient is the amazing Joanne Shand, who always exudes positivity, champions teamwork, shows dedication to the organization and our community and embraces a growth mindset. We're proud to have her on our team.
Congratulations Joanne, and thank you for all you do! 👏
#HPCAS #EmployeePride
5 days ago
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. This year's theme is "Changing the Narrative on Suicide", shifting from silence and stigma to openness, understanding and support.
When suicide impacts families, children need extra care with age-appropriate conversations to help them …process and heal. Children often have difficult questions and may not express their grief in ways we expect.
If you're a parent navigating this circumstance with the children and youth in your life, keep the following in mind to provide best support:
– Listen without judgment and answer any questions honestly
– Maintain routines for stability
– Watch for changes in behaviour or emotions
– Seek professional support when needed — contact us for further information
If you or someone you know is struggling and in need of crisis support:
– Call or Text 9-8-8
– Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT
– Indigenous Peoples 1-855-242-3310
– National Farmer Crisis Line 1-866-FARMS01
– For emergency situations, call 911
For further guidance on talking to children about suicide, visit the link in our bio for the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention's resource: "Talking to Children About A Suicide"
#HPCAS #StartTheConversation
Graphic provided by @casp.acps
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. This year's theme is "Changing the Narrative on Suicide", shifting from silence and stigma to openness, understanding and support.
When suicide impacts families, children need extra care with age-appropriate conversations to help them …process and heal. Children often have difficult questions and may not express their grief in ways we expect.
If you're a parent navigating this circumstance with the children and youth in your life, keep the following in mind to provide best support:
– Listen without judgment and answer any questions honestly
– Maintain routines for stability
– Watch for changes in behaviour or emotions
– Seek professional support when needed — contact us for further information
If you or someone you know is struggling and in need of crisis support:
– Call or Text 9-8-8
– Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT
– Indigenous Peoples 1-855-242-3310
– National Farmer Crisis Line 1-866-FARMS01
– For emergency situations, call 911
For further guidance on talking to children about suicide, visit the link in our bio for the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention's resource: "Talking to Children About A Suicide"
#HPCAS #StartTheConversation
Graphic provided by @casp.acps
6 days ago
A reminder to join us tomorrow for Kinder Cookers in partnership with EarlyON! 🍏
Every Wednesday starting tomorrow, you and your children are invited to learn some quick afternoon snack recipes they'll love to make — and eat! All ingredients are provided.
Register with …your KEyON account or scan the QR code.
We hope to see you there!
#HPCAS #EarlyON
A reminder to join us tomorrow for Kinder Cookers in partnership with EarlyON! 🍏
Every Wednesday starting tomorrow, you and your children are invited to learn some quick afternoon snack recipes they'll love to make — and eat! All ingredients are provided.
Register with …your KEyON account or scan the QR code.
We hope to see you there!
#HPCAS #EarlyON
1 weeks ago
It's Grandparents Day!
We're celebrating all the grandparents who share their love, show up and give their support when families need it. That might look like providing temporary care, offering guidance or simply being a loving presence. However you show up, we thank you, …grandparents, for helping nurture and grow our younger generations and build stronger communities for children. 💚
#GrandparentsDay
It's Grandparents Day!
We're celebrating all the grandparents who share their love, show up and give their support when families need it. That might look like providing temporary care, offering guidance or simply being a loving presence. However you show up, we thank you, …grandparents, for helping nurture and grow our younger generations and build stronger communities for children. 💚
#GrandparentsDay