Volunteering

Every day, thousands of people give their time and talent to hundreds of organizations in the Peterborough area with no expectation of monetary reward. Their hours of service ensure that many activities are accomplished and many people are helped. Volunteers build houses for the homeless, care for the elderly, look after homeless pets and provide counselling and support services. They are youth group leaders, programme coordinators, coaches and fundraisers. They represent every walk of life -- professional, homemaker, student, retiree -- as well as every age and cultural group.

Volunteering has been called “the most fundamental act of citizenship and philanthropy in our society”. Volunteers offer their time, energy and skills to help make their community a better place.  Volunteers usually have a formal, supported relationship with a not-for-profit organization, agency, or club.  Their volunteer services range from office work to supporting individuals as they interact with their community to help build affordable housing.  Volunteers work to improve the lives of others, but they also enhance their own lives. 

For newcomers to Peterborough, volunteering is a positive way to help others, become involved in the community and meet new friends. Volunteering can also be a fun way to practice English. Coming from another country, you may also bring new ideas, new skills and new perspectives to the organization and the community.  Volunteering can also help you with your job search by helping you build your resume, make contacts and gain Canadian work experience. The organization where you volunteer should give you a reference you can use in your job search.

Community Information Services at United Way of Peterborough and District assists residents who are looking for volunteer opportunities in the Peterborough area.  Community Information Services manages a comprehensive online database of information about the Peterborough area.  The database allows you to search for volunteer opportunities in a variety of fields.

Community Information Services is a free community service.  Residents can call 211 for information and referral to social-service organizations, agencies and clubs, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Operators at 211 offer services in multiple languages and use information from the online database to assist callers in the Peterborough area.  Office hours are Monday-Friday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm, September through June.  During July and August, office hours are Monday-Thursday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm, and Fridays, 8:30 am-12 noon.