Occasional Volunteers
Want to help out at the food bank but can’t commit to a set schedule? We are always in need of volunteers who can step in for special events, community engagements, and when our ongoing volunteers are away.
If you like flexibility in your volunteering, scroll down to learn more.
“Small acts, when multiplied, can transform the world.”
– Howard Zinn
To become an occasional volunteer follow these steps:
Step One
Fill in an Application
To start the process, individuals need to fillout the online application. This creates a profile for you in My Impact. BFB uses the My Impact app to schedule volunteers. The app is free through the App Store and Google Play. Already have a My Impact profile? You can add BFB to it!
Step Two
Attend an Information Session
Once you have created a profile, you will be asked to attend an information session. These sessions run a few times a month on Monday and Saturday afternoons. During the session, you will receive a tour of the food bank and an overview of volunteer roles and responsibilities.
Step Three
Take the Training
After you have attend the an information session, you will be able to sign up for volunteer training. This happens in small groups and through one-on-one shadowing. Different roles require different levels of training; as well, volunteer roles that work directly with the public may require a police check.
Step Four
Sign Up for Shifts
Once you hav completed the training, you can sign up for shifts that fit your schedule. We also recommend that you sign up for the back up list and for the special events to be notified when you are needed most.
Ready to start your volunteering journey?
Fill out an application to create your My Impact account.
Occasional Volunteer FAQ
You have questions? We have answers! If you don’t see the information you are looking for here, email us at volunteer@burlingtonfoodbank.ca
To volunteer at Burlington Food Bank, you must be 16 years or older (or turning 16 this year). For special events outside of the food bank, younger supervised volunteers may be allowed depending on the event.
The volunteer process can take some time to complete depending on a number of factors such as how many active volunteers we currently have, staff availability, and demand. We ask that you please be patient with the process.
However, if you are just interested in volunteering at special events outside of the food bank, you may be fast tracked.
The information session introduces you to how the food bank works. We recognize that you can give your time to any organization and it is important us that you are happy where you volunteer. Where you decide to give your time should be at a place that you are passionate about; the information session is the time to find out if BFB is that place for you.
Once you have decided to become a volunteer, you will receive warehouse safety training as well as operational and client support training. The specific training you receive will depend on your volunteer role.
Of course! Many of our occasional volunteers become ongoing volunteers. If you find that you are able to commit to a schedule with BFB, please speak with our volunteer coordinator.