Calgary has provided youth with many opportunities that allow them to develop new skills, meet diverse people, interact socially, and become a helping hand to their community. If you believe you want to impact your community or want to utilize your time during the summer break, volunteering is a great option to choose. I personally have volunteered with many organizations in Calgary, and have obtained many experiences, which have shaped and opened new possibilities in life for me. Not only do you get the skills, but also get many perks, such as discounts, workshops, and many more exciting rewards. But, one of the best rewards is the feeling of gratification and selflessness because you get to help others and make someone’s day awesome each time you volunteer. That is why I have listed a few of my personal favourite volunteer opportunities in Calgary that offer the best of both experiences and teaching for youth.
Youth Central (Youth Volunteer Corps)
Youth Central is an organization that has been empowering youth since 1992, through its diverse range of activities both virtual and in-person. Places available to volunteer include the Drop-In Center, Inn from the Cold, Salvation Army and other exciting positions under your interests, such as arts and culture, sports, special events, social issues, and environment-related projects. All of these activities lead to the development of new friendships, gaining leadership skills, and serving the community back for its betterment. I personally, consider Youth Central’s Youth Volunteer Corps program as an amazing opportunity to help you get started at volunteering because through one platform you could branch out to various volunteering opportunities of your interest. They are accepting volunteers year-long between the ages of 12-18.
“Mission: We engage youth in team-based service experiences that build life and work skills while inspiring a lifetime ethic of service.”
“Goal: Our goal as an organization is to change the perception of youth in our communities by giving youth the tools and support they need to become engaging, empathetic and caring citizens with a sense of ownership and responsibility. We support youth in building valuable skills for future employment, give youth a voice, and grow youth’s understanding of their community. We are building Calgary’s leaders of today and tomorrow.”
What’s in it for you:
- Develop new skills and interests
- Opens new opportunities and career development
- Meet new people and engage in fun activities
- Access to more programs under Youth Central
- Youth Are Awesome
- Calgary Youth Foundation
- Mayor’s Youth Council
- Reference letter upon 20 hours completion of volunteer hours
- Your own Youth Central Youth Volunteer Corps T-shirt
Telus Spark
This non-profit and science-oriented organization is an amazing opportunity to learn exciting STEM skills, in an engaging environment, while enduring the experience of volunteering. You will experience public-facing and behind the scene roles, through their projects that involve welcoming guests, engaging them in workshops, and helping participants in summer camps. Moreover, not only are you exposed to a vast range of programs, but also are welcomed into a science community where you can build strong relationships, and develop your future career. It is convenient and free to volunteer at Telus Spark, which could be possible by submitting their application form, available on their website.
What’s in it for you
- STEM and Science oriented environment to form connections
- Join others who are passionate about spreading the love of science
- Earn credits for school and work purposes
- Understand develop career possibilities and obtain assistance
- Be a part of exclusive events with other volunteers and employees
- Participate in the activities and ongoing workshops
- Earn free parking
- Get a 25% discount on all eatery spaces and Spark Stores
- Can request a reference letter after 60+ hours of volunteering at Spark
- After committing 100+ hours you get an annual membership to Spark
- Gain two free entrance tickets upon 250+ hours and every subsequent 250+ hours (ex. 500+ hours)
Qualifications
- You are eligible if you are 16+ years of age (14+ is eligible for summer camps)
- Passionate about the place where creativity, conversation, and science intersect
- Interested in welcoming and reflecting people of all ages, cultures, and orientations
- Open to learning new things
- Committed to providing a high standard of service in a collaborative environment
*More info at Telus Spark website
**I have provided two of my top opportunities for volunteering above. I would definitely recommend these to all teens who believe they have a passion for shaping their community and creating a difference for the better. This is only part one of what opportunities I want to share but would like to share more. If you want more information on other volunteering positions, make sure to tune in for Part 2.