Be A Volunteer

The heart of a volunteer is not measured in size, but by the depth of the commitment to make a difference in the lives of others.

NYSC relies on the dedication and commitment of more than 300 volunteers each year to deliver quality programs and services to seniors living in our community. There are volunteer positions ranging from administrative to friendly visiting; from helping serve lunch to sharing a talent or skill. We have many opportunities to match what you want to do. In fact, there are more than 65 ways you can make a difference in the lives of seniors by volunteering at North York Seniors Centre (NYSC). Take a peek below at some of the ways you can get involved.

group of volunteers huddled in circle

Our volunteers are amazing!

Why Volunteer?

Why does the ALC/NYSC need volunteers?

The ALC as part of NYSC is a non-profit organization and relies on our dedicated and hard-working volunteers to support our efforts in providing excellence in programs, classes and services. Together we’re working to make lives better.

What is the time commitment?

There are volunteer positions available on a time limited basis and others that are ongoing. The first step is to speak with our volunteer coordinator who will get to know you then match the best fit for you and your availability for volunteering.

What does it take to be a volunteer?

The ALC volunteers love to work with people, want to be engaged in their community and like to have fun. We welcome volunteers who have skills to lend, time to give and enjoy being an important part of the ALC community.

How to Volunteer

How do I become a volunteer?

Check out the steps below. You may also call 416 733.4111 ext. 210 or email: volunteer@mfp-web.ca/nysc to find out more and/or apply to be a volunteer.

Do you have volunteer training?

Yes. You’ll start by attending a volunteer information session to help you decide what best suits your interests according to the available volunteer opportunities. We look forward to getting to know you and finding your perfect fit.

How do I decide where to volunteer?

After meeting our staff, and a review of your application, you’ll be placed in the available position that best fits your skills. Check out our volunteer experiences that are currently available on the Volunteer page.

Volunteer Opportunities

What type of volunteer positions do you have?

Positions range from reception and membership services to serving lunch and helping in the ALC Café or Gift Shoppe. There are also opportunities to help at fundraising events and workshops, and you can also do volunteer work with North York Seniors Centre (NYSC). Check them out below!

Volunteer Positions

Check out our available volunteer positions!

With all of these available volunteer positions, we are sure you have found something that suits your skills and available time!

Check out the next steps below to become a Volunteer.

Housekeeping Help

Are you a high school student or know one who is looking for a helpful way to complete their community volunteer hours after school?

NYSC is seeking help in the kitchen to wash dishes and provide assistance in room clean up around the Centre.

Times needed: Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 4:00-6:00 pm

Cafe Assistant

In this volunteer position, you will be interacting with seniors while practicing your food service and customer service skills. You will also be working in a great team environment with other volunteers.

Times needed: Lunch service Monday to Friday; 9:30 am – 2:00 pm
Continental Breakfast, various mornings: 9 am -11:15 am.

Special Events Helper

Do you like parties? In this volunteer position, you will assist with various special events that are scheduled throughout the year. You will be involved in the room set up, serving and interacting with seniors and then room clean up/tear down.

Times needed: various times and days throughout the year, generally on a monthly basis.

Gift shoppe Volunteer

In this volunteer position, you will be selling items in a friendly environment and providing great customer service.

You will be expected to open and/or close the gift shoppe, as well as organize and keep it tidy.

Time needed: various days; 9:30am-3pm; on-call positions also available

Marketing and Communications

In this volunteer position, you will assist with the design of promotional material, social media, PSA’s and strategize ways to increase NYSC’s profile in the community.

Times needed: generally on a bi-weekly basis, times can vary.

Video Production for Marketing Purposes

If you have a passion for film and like things that are a little out of the box, this position is for you. You will assist in designing and creation innovative videos for promotional purposes. Having your own equipment is not mandatory but a bonus.

Times needed: various times and days throughout the year, generally on a monthly basis.

Project Management Volunteer

In this volunteer position, you will be coordinating project materials and research. Developing project plans, generating schedules and reports, updating project information and scheduling. As well as, managing project development from the beginning to end.

Times needed: generally on a weekly basis, times can vary.

Special Events Photographer

This volunteer position needs someone with an eye for photography. You will be required to attend special events to photograph guests, volunteers, and staff. Your photos will be used for promotional and marketing purposes.

Times needed: various times and days throughout the year, generally on a monthly basis.

Special Events Planner

We are in need of someone with the expertise and creativity in planning a fund-raising event within a very tight budget. You will also be involved with the fundraising aspect of hosting an event, soliciting sponsorship from major donors, soliciting auction prizes, etc.

Times needed: weekly basis, times can vary.

Customer Service Expert

This volunteer is a real people person. In this position you will be, answering customer questions and you will be taking care of customer complaints. You will develop training material for staff and volunteer on how to improve various communications at NYSC (e.g. website, on-site and in the community)

Times needed: generally on a bi-weekly basis, times can vary.

Arts & Culture Instructor

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivating instructors to teach seniors. We are looking for instructors to teach drama music, visual arts, etc.

Times needed: weekly basis, times can vary.

Food and Wellness Instructor

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivating instructors to teach seniors. We are looking for instructors to teach healthy eating, cooking and food preparation.

Times needed: weekly basis, times can vary.

Ready to get started? Here are the 5 Easy Steps to Become a Volunteer

STEP 1

Complete a Volunteer Application Form

To learn more about you, such as your interests and skills, you will be asked to complete a Volunteer Application Form and questionnaire.  We also ask for names of two references that we may contact. Human Resources Coordinator will be in contact with you to discuss your application.

Volunteer Application Form

STEP 2

Attend a Virtual Volunteer Information Session

Located below is the schedule for upcoming Volunteer Information Sessions over Zoom.  In-person info session may take place at a later date.  Please determine the session that best suits your schedule.  Contact us at volunteer@mfp-web.ca/nysc or call us at 416 733.4111 to register.  We will require your email info to follow up with you.  Information sessions generally take place once a month.

STEP 3

Review the volunteer opportunities available

At the Information Session, there will be a list of available opportunities.  Please take a look and determine what position for which you would like to volunteer.  If you have any special skills that you would like to share with us, please speak directly to the Human Resources Coordinator.  A follow-up phone call or virtual meeting will be arranged following the info session to further discuss about possible volunteer opportunities.

STEP 4

Meet with the supervising staff person

Once a position has been decided, the staff person who supervises your volunteer position will contact you to arrange a training/orientation session for your position.

They will also discuss the day and times for your new volunteer position and forms to complete your onboarding.

STEP 5

Start your volunteer position

Welcome to the NYSC Volunteer Team!