Volunteer

Volunteers

Volunteers play a leading role in providing community services through their work with the agency.

Opportunities

Opportunities to volunteer vary from one CAS to another, but generally volunteers can get involved in a wide range of services. We try to fit the assignment to the skills, interests and available time of each volunteer. Some volunteers develop supportive relationships with children and families by becoming special friends or tutors. Others participate in children’s groups, or take part in ongoing programs that benefit both children and their parents. Many volunteers do whatever is needed to help improve the lives of children in our care, such as driving children to appointments. Others serve on our board or committees. No matter how you volunteer with us, you will be part of a team that includes staff, foster parents, and children and families. You will benefit from training, supervision and recognition for your contribution – but your primary reward will be knowing that you are making a difference in the lives of children and their families.

Time Commitments

There are volunteering opportunities available for whatever time commitment you are able to make. Some volunteers donate a few hours each week or month, while others donate a large part of their leisure time. To make volunteering as convenient as possible, we will try to assign you to a program that is close to your home or work.

Characteristics of a Volunteer

• you have time available
• you have an interest in your community
• you care for other people
• you are flexible, accepting and non-judgmental

Types of Volunteering Volunteer Drivers Volunteer drivers take children to appointments across the county, and sometimes out of the area. Drivers are compensated for their mileage. Project managers, working out of the Goderich office, assist in the coordination of the five bureaus across the county. The bureaus provide Christmas food, clothing, and toys for needy children and their families. The work of the Central Committee begins in September. Office Support Volunteers have an opportunity to use their office skills in our fully-equipped community resource room.

Orientation

If you’re interesting in becoming a volunteer, please call your local CAS to arrange to attend an orientation session. After learning more about the CAS at the orientation, you’ll be interviewed and asked for reference checks. This process helps both you and us decide whether volunteering at the CAS is right for you.