Never too busy to make a difference

THE following is a list of volunteer opportunities for Winnipeg and surrounding areas. For more information about these listings, please contact the organization directly. Volunteer Manitoba does not place volunteers with organizations but can assist you in finding an opportunity. To learn more about its programs and services, go to www.volunteermanitoba.ca or call 204-477-5180.

Manitoba Mutts Dog Rescue needs an exam notes co-ordinator to update a spreadsheet with the vetting team and work with the records team and veterinarian offices to maintain up-to-date notes on intake animals. Volunteers follow up with respective parties for missing or incomplete data. Must be able to communicate effectively with others, be detail-orientedwhen asking for or seeking data, and manage time effectively. Email recruit@manitobamutts.org by Feb. 28.

The Recreation Manitoba Conference and Trade Show, which has been held for more than 25 years, is returning as an in-person event this year. Volunteers are needed for setup and at the registration desk. Go to this website by March 5.

The Fred Douglas Society needs volunteers with a background in social services, health care, marketing, business or finance to serve as board members. The society is focused on providing affordable housing and care in Winnipeg. It operates a personal care home, a supportive housing facility and multiple independent living facilities for seniors. Board meetings are held monthly (excluding the summer months and December). The annual general meeting is in September. Email admin@fdl.mb.ca or phone 204-586-8541, ext. 127, by March 31.

Concordia Hospital needs volunteers to help dispense ice water to patients’ rooms. For more information on volunteer opportunities or details on how to apply, call Melanie Clarke at 204-661-7292 or email mclarke3@concordiahospital.mb.ca by April 1.

Alpha House Project needs board members. Alpha House is a long-term program for women and their children leaving abusive relationships. Some of the duties include: attending monthly board meetings, fundraising, a willingness to assist with the co-ordination of fundraisers, a willingness to help with or take on projects, and a commitment to working as part of a team. Communications and social-media skills — or experience as a community member, leader, teacher or elder — would be an asset. Email executivedirector@alphahouseproject.ca by Feb. 15.

West Broadway Youth Outreach needs volunteers to help children ages 4 to 12 with their homework. Volunteers keep kids focused on the task at hand and encourage them to reach their potential. Volunteers are also needed for other fun and educational programs. Volunteers should be patient; fun-loving; able to speak/write in English, French or Spanish; and have the ability to help elementary school students with homework. Basic computer skills are required. Email wbyokidz@gmail.com, phone 204-774-0451 or apply online here by Feb. 27.

Klinic Community Health needs volunteers who can welcome people with kindness and compassion. Training will be provided. These volunteers are one of the first people visitors speak with when they arrive at Klinic, so English language and communications skills are very important. Knowledge of additional languages and different cultures would be an asset. Volunteers spend a lot of time on their feet and should be comfortable approaching and speaking to new people. The commitment is one three-hour shift weekly for six months. Apply online here, email volunteerintake@klinic.mb.ca or phone 204-784-4006 by Feb. 28.

New Directions for Children, Youth, Adults & Families needs drop-in volunteers. Adult services hosts a drop-in for the people they support on Tuesday evenings, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. This is an opportunity to connect with peers and engagement in leisure/recreational activity. Volunteers engage in various activities, facilitate interactions, lead activities (such as craft night), and oversee the snack station and opening/closing of the space. No special skills are required. Email volunteer@newdirections.mb.ca by June 30.

Swimmingly: One-on-One for Exceptional Needs (formerly Manitoba SwimAbility) needs volunteers on an ongoing basis.Swimmingly is a non-profit, charitable organization that aims to improve the lives of youth with exceptional needs through affordable and accessible one-on-one swimming and water safety instruction. Email marketing@swimminglymb.org or call 204-284-4954.

The Canadian Red Cross is seeking volunteers. When disaster strikes, you can help, and the Red Cross can show you how. Go to www.redcross.ca/volunteer, email volunteer@redcross.ca or call 1-844-818-2155.