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A program that encourages students to get involved in their communities by mandating 40 hours of volunteer activities to graduate from high
school.

- an activity that is not for pay or credit

- a constructive contribution to the community

- you'll make new friends

- gain self-confidence

- network and explore career options

- discover your strengths and talents

- it'll help strengthen the whole community

Anytime during your high school career - volunteering before grade 9
doesn't count. You can squeeze these hours in just about anywhere,
except during class hours! Some good times to volunteer include:

- during lunch breaks

- in the evenings

- on weekends

- during school breaks

- during the summer months

Many organizations ask volunteers to provide 2 – 4 hours of service per week. Some places may ask for you to donate less time than this, meanwhile others may request more.

By recording your hours in the Volunteer Passport form (click here to download), you can relay your progress to your guidance office. The form requires the supervisor at the organization for which you volunteer to sign and confirm the declared hour commitment and list of activities performed.  

Start by searching the 40Hours.ca database of positions. They are
categorized by location and activity so you can find a local position
that fits your interests. Here are some helpful questions to ask
yourself in order to find the perfect volunteer position:

- What are my interests?

- What skills do I have to offer?

- How much time can I devote to volunteering? Do I want a short- or long-term position?

- What causes in the community would I like to help support?

- Do I want to volunteer near my school or my home?

There is sometimes an interview in the placement application process, this is a great time to practice for future job interviews. Remember to be punctual and dress appropriately for interviews (low-riding or low-cut shirts are a big "no-no"). After the interviewer asks you questions about yourself, they often ask you if you have any questions about the organization or position. Good questions to ask include:

- What kind of tasks will I be doing?

- How much time does this position require weekly?

- What skills will I be able to use and develop?

- Is there a training session for this position?

- What kind of environment will I be working in?

- Does your organization provide evaluations or reference letters?

Once you’re a volunteer, there are various responsibilities you must assume. These include being:

Punctual and Reliable: always arrive on time. If you know you are going to be absent, be sure to notify your supervisor in advance so they can find a replacement volunteer.

Committed: if you signed up to volunteer 2 hours weekly for 2 months, attend all your shifts. You must remain a volunteer during the entire period of time for which you committed yourself to.

Professional: abide by the rules and regulations of the organization at all times and never release confidential information regarding the organization’s patients or clients.

Enthusiastic: show your interest in the organization and its cause by demonstrating a willingness to learn and, to share your skills and experiences with others.

Respectful: respect the differences in your colleagues and be a team player.