‘A smile and a little bit of light’

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

Do you know an extraordinary volunteer, community group or organization making a difference? Nominations are open for the 41st annual Volunteer Awards, presented by Volunteer Manitoba. The awards celebrate those who go above and beyond to create positive change in our communities. Submit your nomination at wfp.to/Aa7 by Jan. 17.

The Christmas Cheer Board of Winnipeg needs drivers to help deliver thousands of hampers to families in need. Anyone with a vehicle can drop by the warehouse at 895 Century St. (9 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays, closing at 4 p.m. on weekends). No need to call ahead or register.

Ronald McDonald House Charities Manitoba needs volunteers who are service-oriented, compassionate and reliable to fill spots at 62 Juno St. and in the family room at Health Sciences Centre. Shifts are available during the morning, afternoon and evening. Tasks might include baking and meal preparation, welcoming families, light housekeeping and organizing spaces. Criminal record and child abuse registry checks are required. Apply to volunteer and programming manager Kayla Verot at kayla@rmhmanitoba.org, 204-774-4777 (ext. 136) or wfp.to/CbN by Dec. 31.

Meals on Wheels Winnipeg needs drivers to deliver meals to seniors and vulnerable people. Volunteers provide essential nourishment and social interaction, fostering community connections. Each driver picks up meals from hospitals and delivers to 15 to 18 customers on a set route, with flexible commitment options. Training is provided, along with a small gas honorarium. Apply at wfp.to/Aa1 by Dec. 31.

U-Turn Parkinson’s needs exercise class volunteers. They make sure the classes go smoothly, in an encouraging and positive atmosphere, helping participants live their best with the disease. Volunteers help instructors, demonstrate seated modifications, set up and clean equipment, engage with participants and participate in events. Volunteers should be friendly and physically capable of joining the activities. Apply at info@uturnpd.org or 204-510-4869 by Dec. 31.

Mennonite Central Committee’s Kildonan Thrift Shop needs volunteers for seasonal/holiday department sorting and maintenance. Volunteers will be responsible for sorting through donated holiday items and organizing, cleaning and pricing seasonal decor (excluding Christmas). They will also pack and store the priced items until they are ready to be displayed for the appropriate holiday. People who are task-oriented, have strong organizational skills and are able to take initiative and work independently are encouraged to apply. Fast learners with a creative flair are also welcome. The shop is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with shifts usually from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.). Apply at vc@kmthrift.ca, 204-668-0967 (ext. 5) or wfp.to/y0n by Jan. 10.

Festival du Voyageur needs volunteers for Western Canada’s largest winter celebration, which is happening from Feb. 14 to Feb. 23 at Whittier Park. Volunteers will help create memorable experiences, greet visitors, support artists and ensure smooth operations. No experience is necessary, and training will be provided, so anyone with enthusiasm can help. Volunteers will enjoy exclusive perks. Apply at wfp.to/AaH by Feb. 10.

The Chalmers Neighbourhood Renewal Corp. needs people to join its Elmwood Unity Walk group. The safety-patrol group operates in the Chalmers neighbourhood to create a safer and cleaner area. Volunteers will be expected to remove potentially hazardous materials, hand out food and water to people in need and refer residents to other corporation programs. The walks are on Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Candidates must have sociability and group interaction skills, emotional intelligence, attentiveness and a team-player attitude. People of all ages, individually or in groups of any size, can apply at cnrcnrg@chalmersrenewal.org or 204-669-0750 by March 31.

Zoo Lights runs from this Friday until Jan. 5. The Assiniboine Park Conservancy relies on volunteers to help guests enjoy a magical experience on each visit to the unique winter festival. Volunteers keep guests informed, safe and comfortable. They will enjoy a number of benefits, including free zoo tickets, Zoo Lights branded gear, snacks and hot chocolate. The more people volunteer, the greater the rewards. There are a variety of positions available. Must be 18 or older, and comfortable spending four to five hours outdoors (with breaks) surrounded by crowds of happy guests and bright lights. Apply at wfp.to/Aq6 by Dec. 22.

Cystic Fibrosis Canada needs volunteers for holiday gift-wrapping at Kildonan Place. Volunteers (must be 16 or older) will receive an email tutorial upon registration. Good communication skills and attention to detail are essential. Flexible shifts are available. Early ones offer a more relaxed experience, while later ones offer a faster-paced environment. People are welcome to apply individually, or along with family and friends, at wfp.to/A8B by Dec. 24.

The Canadian Red Cross needs volunteers. The Red Cross can show you how to help when disaster strikes. Go to wfp.to/0pE, email volunteer@redcross.ca or call 1-844-818-2155.