Thank you for your interest in volunteering Behind The Shield! Volunteers have been called “the army behind the Army” for their invaluable service to our community. In 2023, our volunteers generously gave over 1730+ hours of service to our programs!
We have year-round volunteer shifts available! We are always on the look-out for community meals servers. Volunteers come during meal times to the scoop and serve food, wipe tables and greet community guests from all walks of life. Community Meals volunteers have flexible shifts with weekday/weekend availability so you can pick the days that suit your schedule best. Shifts are Monday-Friday 10:45am-12:00pm, and Sat 3:45-5pm.
Please note that we require a minimum commitment of once a month at our community meals program. If you would like to volunteer occasionally, we have one-time opportunities throughout the year, mostly in the holiday season. You can fill out our holiday application to get on the list and we will email you when shifts open up.
Basic requirements for regular individual volunteers:
Age: 19+
Clean Time: 1-2 years
How to be a Regular Volunteer:
For information about group volunteering, click here.
*If you are only applying for skill-based roles (not community meals) listed on our website under “view volunteer oppourtunities”, please email us with the role title you are interested in, relevant qualifications and experience, and your availability. Title you email “Skill-based Volunteer Application: (the role title you are interested in).” Our team will contact shortlisted volunteers. You may attend orientation as that is a part of our skill-based volunteer onboarding as well.
It takes an average of 6 weeks to go through our regular volunteer intake process. Our clients and their safety are always our priority, so we require that every volunteer completes our screening process, including a criminal record check. You must attend orientation, an online boundaries training and receive CRRP clearance before volunteering.
Watch Ricki’s inspirational story and see how you can make an impact on our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I volunteer just once?
Yes, we welcome one-time volunteers at some of our holidays and special events, including Christmas and Easter community meals but not in our regular volunteer shifts. Watch this page, our social media channels for more information or apply to be a holiday volunteer to get notified by email when shifts opens.
Can I just show up to volunteer?
No, we do not take drop ins. To ensure the smooth operation of our programs and services, and the safety of the vulnerable populations we serve, we require volunteers to go through an orientation and screening process before volunteering.
Why does it take so long to be screened as a volunteer?
The safety and wellbeing of our residents and guests is critically important, so we need to know more about you before you join our community. Please be patient – we want to make sure that you are the right fit for our opportunities and that we are the right fit for you!
Why do you use the Criminal Record Review Program? Can’t I go to my local police for a criminal record check?
We participate in the CRRP because it’s free for volunteers, and it offers a comprehensive risk assessment process with consistent standards. You can learn more about the program on their website.
What is the minimum time commitment per month?
We require a minimum commitment of once a month. Skill-based positions will be TBD when in our volunteer interview. Most skill-based positions will require a regular time interval. Our community meals offer the most flexible scheduling, so if you work rotating shifts or have an unpredictable schedule, they are a great fit!
I still have questions!
That’s okay – let’s talk! Please reach out to our Community Engagement Coordinator.
IMPORTANT DATES 2025
- National Volunteer Week – April 27-May 3
- Easter Community Meal – Easter Monday
- Thanksgiving Registration opens – TD
- Harbour Light’s Anniversary – October 1st
- Thanksgiving Meal – TBD
- Christmas Registration opens – TBD
- International Volunteer Day – December 5th
- Christmas Day Meal – December 25th
