Since 1865, the Salvation Army has provided practical help and compassionate care - without prejudice. This international religious movement has a long history of supporting individuals through holistic programs that meet their physical, emotional, spiritual, educational and recreational needs. During the holiday season, the Salvation Army embarks on a Christmas campaign that includes distributing Christmas hampers, feeding the hungry, and of course, collecting donations in the iconic red kettles. The Salvation Army-Regional Development of B.C. & Yukon places volunteer bell ringers all around Greater Victoria to stand by a kettle, ringing bells and collecting donations. Anyone with warm hearts, big smiles and holiday greetings can be bell ringers; volunteers can work alone or in groups. Youth can also participate, with supervision, so this is a great family volunteering opportunity. Those with musical abilities can bring instruments along, too! Shifts are 2-8 hours, six days a week and volunteers may commit to as many shifts as possible for the length of time they choose. To get involved this holiday season, please call 250-386-8521.
Want to Volunteer? These and many other opportunities are available at www.VolunteerVictoria.bc.ca or by calling 250-386-2269.
Christmas Helpers: VIHA seeks Christmas helpers at several locations, including Glengarry, Aberdeen, Mt. Tolmie and the Priory. Christmas elves help residents open their packages and read their mail; decorators help staff put up Christmas decorations. Commitment is about two hours per week leading up to Christmas. Call 250-370-5645.
Event Volunteers: The Victoria Tea Festival seeks a variety of volunteers for the Feb. 9, 2013 event, including marketing, photographer, setup/teardown, exhibitor support and more. Shifts vary by role for this all-day event. Call 250-3704880.
Board of Directors: Ready to Rent B.C. is looking for volunteers to join its board of directors. Commitment includes monthly two-hour meetings plus other duties, depending on need and interest. Call 250388-7171.
Receptionist: Esquimalt Neighbourhood House needs volunteers for its reception area. Tasks involve answering the phone, greeting walk-ins, redirecting requests and more. Shifts are 10 a.m. - noon, Monday to Thursday; commitment is two shifts/week. Call 250-385-2635 x207.
Graphic Designer: Victoria Immigrant & Refugee Centre seeks a graphic designer to create print and web-based promotional material for the free services offered to newcomers to Victoria. The volunteer can work on a per-project basis, or as part of the marketing team. Commitment is two hours per week for at least one month. Call 250-361-9433.
School Support: Victoria Youth Custody Services seeks school support volunteers to assist youth ages 12-18 with classroom studies, with teacher guidance and supervision. This long-term role requires a six-month commitment, 1.5 hours per week. Call 250-708-2207.
Sales Associate: The Victoria Hospice requires sales associates for its Thrift Boutique. Commitment is six months for four hours per week; schedule is flexible. Call 250-361-4966.
