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.
This program strives to create lasting summer memories for children and youth in our communities. As a Summer Club Volunteer, you will be matched with a local child in your area and enjoy weekly one on one summer outings together. Adventure to neighboring towns and enjoy exploring all Huron-Perth has to offer. Activities can include swimming, nature walks, community events, ice cream visits, crafts in the park and more!
Winter Club is a program designed to keep children and youth engaged and active in the winter months! As a Winter Club Volunteer, you will be matched with a local child in your area and enjoy weekly one on one winter outings together. Activities can include winter walks, swimming, out for hot chocolate, library visits, skating and more.
Provides unique support based on a specific need and volunteer skill set.
If you are a B.Ed student wishing to gain Community Leadership Experience, please apply directly to Team Volunteer teamvolunteer@hp-cas.ca to learn more about available volunteer positions that will meet your program requirements.
Let’s Get Social
2 days ago
Do you have an educational background and a passion for working with children and youth? We're looking for contract tutors to support children and youth receiving services through HPCAS!
This is a flexible opportunity where you choose the grade levels you're comfortable with and …Read morereceive compensation for your mileage and time. We have a particular need for tutors in the Wingham and Listowel areas right now.
If this sounds like a great fit for you or someone you know, please reach out to Gayle at gaylevanaltena@h-pcas.ca.
#HPCAS #Tutoring #Education #Wingham #Listowel
Do you have an educational background and a passion for working with children and youth? We're looking for contract tutors to support children and youth receiving services through HPCAS!
This is a flexible opportunity where you choose the grade levels you're comfortable with and …Read morereceive compensation for your mileage and time. We have a particular need for tutors in the Wingham and Listowel areas right now.
If this sounds like a great fit for you or someone you know, please reach out to Gayle at gaylevanaltena@h-pcas.ca.
#HPCAS #Tutoring #Education #Wingham #Listowel
3 days ago
Have you ever wondered what your child is really asking for when they act out, shut down or cling a little tighter than usual? Circle of Security is an 8-week in-person program that helps caregivers understand exactly that.
You'll learn to read your child's emotional needs, …Read moresupport them through big feelings, and feel more confident and connected at home. Childminding is available so you don't have to worry about your little one while you're there.
Tuesdays, October 6 – November 24, 2026
9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
YMCA of Three Rivers – Stratford, 204 Downie St.
Scan the QR code or visit the link below to register.
keyon.ca
#HPCAS #CircleOfSecurity #EarlyON #Stratford #ParentingSupport
Have you ever wondered what your child is really asking for when they act out, shut down or cling a little tighter than usual? Circle of Security is an 8-week in-person program that helps caregivers understand exactly that.
You'll learn to read your child's emotional needs, …Read moresupport them through big feelings, and feel more confident and connected at home. Childminding is available so you don't have to worry about your little one while you're there.
Tuesdays, October 6 – November 24, 2026
9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
YMCA of Three Rivers – Stratford, 204 Downie St.
Scan the QR code or visit the link below to register.
keyon.ca
#HPCAS #CircleOfSecurity #EarlyON #Stratford #ParentingSupport
3 days ago
Social media is a big part of how children and youth connect with the world today – where friendships are maintained, interests are explored and communities are built. And while there's a lot of good that comes with that, it's worth having some honest conversations at home about how to …Read morenavigate it well.
Unlike a private spoken conversation, what gets posted on social media can be seen, shared and saved well beyond the original audience. Children and youth don't always think about that in the moment – and that's where caregivers can really help.
Some things worth talking about:
– Think before you post – once something is online it's hard to take back
– Keep personal details like school names and locations off public profiles
– Be thoughtful about who you follow and who follows you back
– If something feels off, talk to a trusted adult
– How you treat people online matters just as much as in person
The more open these conversations are at home, the better equipped children and youth are to make good choices when you're not around.
#HPCAS #SafetyAwarenessSeries #SocialMediaSafety
Social media is a big part of how children and youth connect with the world today – where friendships are maintained, interests are explored and communities are built. And while there's a lot of good that comes with that, it's worth having some honest conversations at home about how to …Read morenavigate it well.
Unlike a private spoken conversation, what gets posted on social media can be seen, shared and saved well beyond the original audience. Children and youth don't always think about that in the moment – and that's where caregivers can really help.
Some things worth talking about:
– Think before you post – once something is online it's hard to take back
– Keep personal details like school names and locations off public profiles
– Be thoughtful about who you follow and who follows you back
– If something feels off, talk to a trusted adult
– How you treat people online matters just as much as in person
The more open these conversations are at home, the better equipped children and youth are to make good choices when you're not around.
#HPCAS #SafetyAwarenessSeries #SocialMediaSafety
7 days ago
One of our core beliefs at HPCAS is that children do best when they remain connected to the people and places they know and love.
That's the foundation of kinship care. It looks to extended family members, close family friends and trusted community members who already have a …Read morerelationship with the child, to provide a safe and familiar environment during a difficult time.
Keeping children connected to familiar faces, family routines and cultural traditions makes a real difference in their stability and sense of identity. It means fewer disruptions to their daily life and a space they can feel grounded in.
If you have a child in your life who may need support, or you're interested in learning more about becoming a kinship caregiver, we'd love to talk.
📞 519.271.5290 or 519.524.7356
📞 Toll-free: 1.800.668.5094
#HPCAS #KinshipCare
One of our core beliefs at HPCAS is that children do best when they remain connected to the people and places they know and love.
That's the foundation of kinship care. It looks to extended family members, close family friends and trusted community members who already have a …Read morerelationship with the child, to provide a safe and familiar environment during a difficult time.
Keeping children connected to familiar faces, family routines and cultural traditions makes a real difference in their stability and sense of identity. It means fewer disruptions to their daily life and a space they can feel grounded in.
If you have a child in your life who may need support, or you're interested in learning more about becoming a kinship caregiver, we'd love to talk.
📞 519.271.5290 or 519.524.7356
📞 Toll-free: 1.800.668.5094
#HPCAS #KinshipCare
1 weeks ago
Our Ignite Program in Stratford is looking for a volunteer mentor this fall!
Ignite brings children ages 7-11 together every Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 PM for hands-on activities, games, field trips and more. As a mentor, you'd help facilitate the fun while building genuine connections …Read morewith the children in the program. A minimum six-month commitment is required.
Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at 519-271-5290 or 1-800-668-5094 ext. 2341 or teamvolunteer@h-pcas.ca.
You can also learn more at h-pcas.ca/volunteer/
#HPCAS #Volunteer #Stratford
Our Ignite Program in Stratford is looking for a volunteer mentor this fall!
Ignite brings children ages 7-11 together every Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 PM for hands-on activities, games, field trips and more. As a mentor, you'd help facilitate the fun while building genuine connections …Read morewith the children in the program. A minimum six-month commitment is required.
Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at 519-271-5290 or 1-800-668-5094 ext. 2341 or teamvolunteer@h-pcas.ca.
You can also learn more at h-pcas.ca/volunteer/
#HPCAS #Volunteer #Stratford
1 weeks ago
School starts in just a handful of days for many families in Huron and Perth, and whether your kids are counting down the hours or feeling a little nervous, there are some simple things that can help make the transition smoother!
Here's a few things to keep in mind ⬇️
…Read moreGetting ready:
– If you haven't already, start shifting bedtime and morning routines back to school schedule now – even a few days makes a difference
– Do a run-through of the morning routine so kids know what to expect on day one
– Make sure backpacks are packed and everything is ready the night before to keep mornings calm
Talking it through:
– Ask your kids what they're most looking forward to, not just what they're worried about
– Let them know it's completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves
– Remind them they can always come to you if something feels hard
Once school starts:
– Carve out a few minutes after school to check in about their day – but remember, sometimes kids need a snack and a little time before they're ready to talk
– Connect with their teacher early if you have any questions or concerns
– Keep an eye out for changes in sleep, appetite or mood in the first few weeks
Wishing every family in our community a wonderful start to the new school year! 💚
#HPCAS #BackToSchool
School starts in just a handful of days for many families in Huron and Perth, and whether your kids are counting down the hours or feeling a little nervous, there are some simple things that can help make the transition smoother!
Here's a few things to keep in mind ⬇️
…Read moreGetting ready:
– If you haven't already, start shifting bedtime and morning routines back to school schedule now – even a few days makes a difference
– Do a run-through of the morning routine so kids know what to expect on day one
– Make sure backpacks are packed and everything is ready the night before to keep mornings calm
Talking it through:
– Ask your kids what they're most looking forward to, not just what they're worried about
– Let them know it's completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves
– Remind them they can always come to you if something feels hard
Once school starts:
– Carve out a few minutes after school to check in about their day – but remember, sometimes kids need a snack and a little time before they're ready to talk
– Connect with their teacher early if you have any questions or concerns
– Keep an eye out for changes in sleep, appetite or mood in the first few weeks
Wishing every family in our community a wonderful start to the new school year! 💚
#HPCAS #BackToSchool
2 weeks ago
We warmly invite you to join HPCAS for our National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Community Gathering on September 25.
This gathering is an opportunity to come together in reflection, learning and community as we honour, remember and recognize the ongoing journey toward truth and …Read morereconciliation.
Everyone is welcome, and there is no cost to attend.
📅 September 25, 2026
⏰ 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
📍 The Commons, HPCAS Stratford Office, 639 Lorne Ave E, Stratford
As part of the day, we will also come together for a community walk from 2:15–3:30 p.m. This walk will provide an opportunity to gather as a community, reflect on the meaning of Truth and Reconciliation, honour survivors and those who were lost, and carry our learning and commitment forward together.
Joining us for lunch? Scan the QR code on the poster or visit the link in our bio to RSVP.
For more information, contact:
📧 tasonnafrench@h-pcas.ca
📧 sarannewhetung@h-pcas.ca
#HPCAS #OrangeShirtDay #EveryChildMatters #TruthAndReconciliation #NDTR
We warmly invite you to join HPCAS for our National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Community Gathering on September 25.
This gathering is an opportunity to come together in reflection, learning and community as we honour, remember and recognize the ongoing journey toward truth and …Read morereconciliation.
Everyone is welcome, and there is no cost to attend.
📅 September 25, 2026
⏰ 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
📍 The Commons, HPCAS Stratford Office, 639 Lorne Ave E, Stratford
As part of the day, we will also come together for a community walk from 2:15–3:30 p.m. This walk will provide an opportunity to gather as a community, reflect on the meaning of Truth and Reconciliation, honour survivors and those who were lost, and carry our learning and commitment forward together.
Joining us for lunch? Scan the QR code on the poster or visit the link in our bio to RSVP.
For more information, contact:
📧 tasonnafrench@h-pcas.ca
📧 sarannewhetung@h-pcas.ca
#HPCAS #OrangeShirtDay #EveryChildMatters #TruthAndReconciliation #NDTR
2 weeks ago
Is your child's car seat fitted correctly? Drop in to our free Car Seat Clinic in Seaforth on Saturday, September 12, and let a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician check it out for you!
No appointment needed – just come by and our certified technicians will make sure …Read moreeverything is fitted correctly and safely.
When: Saturday, September 12 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Where: Seaforth Fire Station, 31 Birch St., Seaforth, ON Cost: FREE – drop in anytime
#HPCAS #CarSeatSafety #ChildSafety
Is your child's car seat fitted correctly? Drop in to our free Car Seat Clinic in Seaforth on Saturday, September 12, and let a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician check it out for you!
No appointment needed – just come by and our certified technicians will make sure …Read moreeverything is fitted correctly and safely.
When: Saturday, September 12 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Where: Seaforth Fire Station, 31 Birch St., Seaforth, ON Cost: FREE – drop in anytime
#HPCAS #CarSeatSafety #ChildSafety
2 weeks ago
If you've been following us for a while, you've probably seen us talking about our community engagement and prevention programming pretty regularly. There's a good reason for that!
HPCAS, often in collaboration with our community partners, offers a wide range of programs …Read moredesigned to support children, youth and families. From parenting workshops and drop-in programs to mentorship and cultural supports, these programs address a variety of needs for families and connect them with support in an approachable and fun way!
Whether you're new to our programs or have attended in the past, we would love to have you join us! Fall and winter sessions will be beginning before you know it — stay tuned to our socials to be the first to know!
#HPCAS #CommunityPreventionProgramming
If you've been following us for a while, you've probably seen us talking about our community engagement and prevention programming pretty regularly. There's a good reason for that!
HPCAS, often in collaboration with our community partners, offers a wide range of programs …Read moredesigned to support children, youth and families. From parenting workshops and drop-in programs to mentorship and cultural supports, these programs address a variety of needs for families and connect them with support in an approachable and fun way!
Whether you're new to our programs or have attended in the past, we would love to have you join us! Fall and winter sessions will be beginning before you know it — stay tuned to our socials to be the first to know!
#HPCAS #CommunityPreventionProgramming