Are you a student looking to make new friends and learn about the important work happening across our cities? To expand your network and impact beyond UBC clubs and societies?
If so, volunteering or collaborating with local organizations here in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland is a great place to start. When I first moved to the city four years ago, volunteering off-campus was one of the first steps I took to find a sense of community and contribute to causes I care about. I’ve also made connections between my studies and what’s happening in the real world, and even picked up new hobbies like running along the way!
So, whether you’re interested in advocacy, arts and culture, sports, environmental work, or just want to try something new, there’s likely something out there that fits your interests. Or maybe you’re working on a personal project and are looking to collaborate with an organization that shares your goals.
Either way, here are a few resources to help you get started.
UBtheChange
Offered through the UBC Centre for Community Engaged Learning (CCEL), UBtheChange is a student-led program that introduces UBC students to meaningful social and environmental work in collaboration with community organizations across Metro Vancouver.
The program includes on-campus events and Community Action Days—short, hands-on volunteer opportunities with non-profits and schools. A fun example of a Community Action Day that I read about is the Britannia Elementary School “Build and Battle”, a three-day project over Reading Week where UBC student volunteers team up with Grade 6/7 students, guiding them through a mini engineering project.
Want to stay updated on upcoming events and opportunities? Sign up for the CCEL student newsletter or follow them on social media. All information is available on their website.
Department Newsletters
Do you receive a monthly newsletter from your department? Sometimes these emails include external volunteer opportunities, events, or internships that might not be advertised elsewhere.
For example, the Political Science department often shares external events and calls for involvement that are open to students. I’ve come across lots of engaging opportunities with youth-driven organizations from these newsletters, so check with your program/academic advisors to see if your department has one too!
Attend Community Events
Many non-profits and community organizations host public events like workshops, info sessions, festivals, and more. Even just showing up to an event you’re curious about can open the door to longer-term opportunities.
In my experience, many volunteers in the organizations I’ve been a part of have started out after attending an open event. Sometimes all it takes is showing up and asking questions!
For a list of upcoming community events in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, I recommend browsing websites like Eventbrite for unique and budget-friendly activities happening near you.
Browse the Volunteer Vancouver Board
This Volunteer Opportunities Board is another great tool if you want to browse what’s out there based on your interests or availability.
It’s easy to search by category (like “education” or “environment”) and filter by time commitment or location, which is especially handy if you’re balancing other commitments and need something flexible.
Taking the first step isn’t easy, but volunteering with local organizations can lead to impactful work and meaningful connections. Do you have any favourite volunteer groups in the area? Share them in the comment section below!
