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How to Start Volunteering in 2025

Writer's picture: Rayne InksterRayne Inkster
How to Start Volunteering in 2025
 

Want to start giving back in 2025? There is no better way to help your community than by volunteering! Join over 40% of British Columbians and add volunteering to your New Year’s resolutions. 


A young girl in a pink jacket smiles at the camera while surrounded by boxes of blankets
A young volunteer from Blanket BC

“Volunteering can be a rewarding experience on so many levels. It can draw you into a community of like-minded folks dedicated to giving back to an idea, cause, or need. Consider a one-time commitment, short-term, long-term, or whatever works for you. Welcome the new year by volunteering for something that touches your heart. You never know what rewards may await you.” - Anne-Marie Koeppen, President


Volunteering offers many amazing physical, social, and emotional benefits but it can be daunting to get started. We’ve put together a short list to help you find the best volunteer opportunities for your needs whether you are a seasoned volunteer looking for new opportunities or searching for your first position.


How to get started:

  1.  Discover your local volunteer centre and check out the opportunities they offer! 


Volunteer Centres are an essential part of every community. Each volunteer centre is unique to its region and is focused on promoting volunteering, offering resources and up-to-date opportunities. If you’re looking for local volunteer opportunities or community work to start your year, Volunteer Centres are the place to start!


To find your local Volunteer Centre check Volunteer BC’s Volunteer Centre Network  


To learn even more about Volunteer Centres and what they can do for you, download this Factsheet.


  1. Find a volunteer position that works for you with Volunteer Now!


A young smiling woman in an orange shirt writes on a paper
A volunteer from CityReach Care Society

With over 29,000 Non-Profits in B.C. it is easy to find a position that works best for you. To find your perfect volunteer position check out Volunteer BC’s platform:  Volunteer Now a one-stop shop for all your volunteering needs. This platform allows you to search and apply for multiple positions all in one place, and you can also filter based on location, position type and more!


Volunteer Now is completely FREE for volunteers. Simply make an account and start looking for a position that interests you. 


  1. Volunteer with friends and family!


It can be scary to try something new, even something fun like volunteering. Try volunteering with friends or family when you’re first getting started! Volunteering together is also a great way to make memories and strengthen connections. 


Check out these posting boards and filter for group opportunities: Volunteer Connector, Charity Village iVolunteer, Volunteer Now, or MeaningfulWork


  1. Update your skills and learn something new!


If you are a seasoned volunteer, there is no better time to venture out of your comfort zone and try something new than at the beginning of the year! If you’re looking for a great New Year’s resolution, try adding new skills to your volunteer repertoire and learning something new! 


Volunteer BC hosts a training calendar which shows opportunities to upgrade your skills. This training will teach you about volunteering and the non-profit sector while also gaining valuable and applicable skills. 


Follow us now on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to hear about our new opportunities as soon as they are available!


Want even more detailed info on volunteering? Visit our Volunteer Resource page and download - I Want To Volunteer Handbook - an interactive step-by-step guide on how to go about finding that perfect volunteer position. 

A woman in a green jacket shows a plant to a group of children
A volunteer Program Leader at NatureKids BC

  1. Join the volunteering community with a Volunteer BC Membership!


A Volunteer BC Individual Membership is another great way to become part of the volunteer community in BC in 2025. A membership not only shows your support to Volunteer BC you’ll also receive excellent benefits that will help you on your journey to being your best self volunteering in the new year. 


As a member, you receive our member’s member-only newsletter, new volunteer positions, and the latest updates on the non-profit sector. Sign-up now.



The women in blue uniforms smile at the camera
Volunteers from Delta Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop

Volunteering is a great way to add meaning to your life, and there is no better time to start than the New Year! By following these easy steps in 2025, you'll be all set to learn new skills and make your community a better place. 


If you ever have any questions, please reach out to your local volunteer centre or Volunteer BC.

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