Taking on the heavy lifting for sick kids

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.

The Bell Tower Community Café, a hub for area residents, needs musicians to volunteer their talents at community events. Performances are held on a stage on the second floor of 745 Westminster Ave. from mid-September to mid-June, and on the lawn during the summer months. The café provides sound systems and microphones. Musicians of all styles are invited, but they should remember the diverse audience. Events are held every second Friday, with music starting at 6:30 p.m. and lasting about 45 minutes. Volunteers are not required to attend every event. Email volunteercoordinatorbtcc@gmail.com by Aug. 31.

The Manitoba Fibre Festival needs volunteers to help with setup, greeting guests and supporting vendors and workshops at Red River Exhibition Place from Sept. 4 to Sept. 6. Apply at wfp.to/ila by Sept. 1.

The Sickle Circle of Manitoba needs volunteers for Andrea’s Angel Walk, which is happening in Kildonan Park on Sept. 6. Roles include setting up, helping with registration, guiding walkers and supporting the community barbecue. The commitment is five hours that day, and two one-hour Zoom meetings to discuss roles and duties. The volunteers must work well in a team, be comfortable using sign-in sheets, have good communication skills and be willing to jump in where needed. Apply at wfp.to/ilM by Sept. 5.

The Red River zone of the Canadian Ski Patrol provides first-aid services in southern Manitoba at the Springhill, Holiday Mountain and Falcon Ridge ski hills, and at the Windsor Park Nordic Centre. It also provides first-aid services for a variety of events that extend over the summer months, including duathlons, cycling events, running events, sports competitions and festivals. Advanced first-aid training is provided. To learn more, attend the open house at Sport Manitoba from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sept. 15 or go to skipatrol.ca.

The Winnipeg Regional Health Authority needs assistants at the Breast Health Centre in St. Boniface. Volunteers welcome clients and their families, guiding them through appointments and explaining available amenities. They also help staff members ensure smooth client flow and handle related tasks. The role requires virtual and in-person training and engaging with people from diverse backgrounds supportively. Volunteers gain health-care skills. They must commit to four shifts per month during business hours, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Apply at wfp.to/ilR by Sept. 30.

The Ecuadorian Association of Manitoba needs volunteers who speak Spanish or are passionate about the culture to help with events. The position is an opportunity to gain experience in event management. People are welcome to apply at any time, but to participate in events this summer and fall, they should apply at volunteer@ecuamanitoba.ca or wfp.to/il4 this month.

Special Olympics Manitoba needs coaches who are energetic and passionate about sport, and have a couple of hours per week to spare. Head and assistant coaches are needed for swimming, five-in bowling, FUNdamentals (ages 7 to 12), junior basketball and junior athletics in Winnipeg for the fall/winter 2025-26 season. Head and assistant coaches are needed for floorball in Stonewall. No experience is needed because training will be provided. Email volunteer co-ordinator Emma at ewedlake@specialolympic.mb.ca by Aug. 31.

Canada’s largest volunteer-led event for breast cancer — the CIBC Run for the Cure, in support of the Canadian Cancer Society — returns Oct. 5. Volunteers are needed to help plan and lead events across the country. To explore available positions, go to wfp.to/ilw. The application deadline is the day of the event.

The Canadian Red Cross Society needs volunteers in Manitoba for programs such as Smart Start and Disaster Risk Reduction. These roles involve leading sessions on climate change and emergency preparedness, and require effective communication skills and cultural sensitivity. Volunteers might also join the emergency responder and personal disaster assistance teams to help during disasters. Training and background checks are mandatory. This opportunity offers experience in public speaking and crisis management. Send a resumé to SmartStart@RedCross.ca by Dec. 31.