Broadening perspectives by looking back

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.

Whyte Ridge Community Centre needs a volunteer committee to organize its Soccer Fest and Fall Carnival, which is happening on Sept. 16. Email volunteer.services@whyteridge.ca or programming@whyteridge.ca by Aug. 14.

Thrive Thrift Shop needs a volunteer who can help the executive director learn how to install and use various computer programs, such as Microsoft Excel. The ideal candidate should possess a strong background in Excel. The volunteer should be reliable, committed to attending scheduled shifts, and have a friendly and helpful attitude. Shifts are available between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays, and can be done in person or via Zoom. Email thrivethriftshop@thrivewpg.com or call 204-772-5527 by Aug. 18.

St. Amant needs green thumb “gurus” (gardening volunteers) to help those in community residential programs with gardening tasks such as preparing beds, planting, watering, weeding, trimming and harvesting. Volunteers should be at least 18 years old, detail-oriented and able to do physical work. Co-operativeness and adherence to safety guidelines is imperative. Gardening experience is preferred but not necessary. The minimum time commitment is two to four shifts per month from May to September. Criminal record and abuse registry checks are required, but St. Amant will submit the paperwork and refunds the fees after 100 volunteer hours. Apply online at stamant.ca by Oct. 30.

Parkinson Canada needs support group facilitators in Brandon to create a confidential and welcoming space (virtually) for people affected by Parkinson’s, to share their experiences and develop supportive relationships in a group setting. The volunteer must have a willingness to take on the logistical aspects of monthly group meetings if support groups return to in-person sessions. The role requires skills such as compassion, a commitment to model inclusion, respect for diversity and strong communication and facilitation skills. The time commitment is one meeting per month, and three to five hours of monthly administrative and organizational tasks, with a commitment of at least one year appreciated. A background in nursing, social work or a related field is an asset. Email volunteer@parkinson.ca or apply online at http://wfp.to/NEU by Oct. 31.

GLOCAL Foundation of Canada needs an online/remote community engagement and research volunteer. The position involves working closely with research analysts and supervisors to collect, input and analyze data on political representatives at the municipal level, in addition to researching and understanding Manitoba’s political environment. The role also involves supporting GLOCAL’s social-media engagement, creating infographics and producing short videos on social causes, and helping with community engagement and outreach. The ideal candidate has good communication, interpersonal and organizational skills, proficiency in Microsoft Office and Excel, strong intercultural understanding, can meet deadlines and has the ability to work independently and within a team environment. Ongoing support will be offered by the manager. The position requires a minimum commitment of two to six hours per week for at least three months. Email admin@glocalfoundation.ca by Dec. 31.

The College of Midwives of Manitoba needs people to serve as public representatives on its governing council and/or committees. Representatives are expected to contribute to public protection, support quality midwifery care and help regulate the profession. Candidates should be knowledgeable about related issues, and be sensitive to issues of culture, equity, diversity and inclusion. The college is committed to creating space and access for members of marginalized communities to participate in governance work and encourages people who identify as a member of an equity-seeking group to apply. The position requires a three-year commitment, including attending three to eight committee meetings per year and/or four to five council meetings per year, generally held between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Apply online at http://wfp.to/NIc by Aug. 10.

Prairie Strides, which makes a difference in the lives of children living with disabilities, needs volunteers for its fall program at West Wind Stables. No horse experience is needed, and training will be provided for all roles (such as leading and sidewalking, barn help, instructors, therapists, board members and fundraising committee members). The program runs for 1.5 hours a week for 10 weeks. Volunteers must be 16 years or older and available Monday nights. Apply online at http://wfp.to/NBB, email exedir@prairiestrides.com or call 204-925-5905 by Aug. 11.