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Volunteer

Volunteers help us do more to help so many. We can’t do it without you.

Your time, talent and commitment mean so much

Our community of volunteers show their commitment by supporting Second Harvest’s food rescue efforts. Our volunteers share their time, talent, and experience to make a difference. Join one of the most exciting and rewarding volunteer programs in Canada!

Upcoming Information Sessions

Join a volunteer information session to find out more about Second Harvest, what we do and current and upcoming volunteer opportunities. Look for an upcoming session in your area and register to attend. For more information, please contact volunteer@secondharvest.ca.

Summer

Calgary: Date and Time TBD

Summer

Greater Toronto Area: June 5, 2024 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. ET

Individual volunteer opportunities

Ready to join the Second Harvest volunteer community?  Find the position that best suits your interests, availability, and skills.

 Learn more
Group volunteer opportunities

Group volunteer opportunities

Want to volunteer with your team?  We have opportunities for corporate, community and school groups to make an impact and support our food rescue operations.

 Learn more

Have a question? Find the answer here.

We have limited in-person volunteer opportunities during the pandemic.  Second Harvest enforces all COVID-19 safety protocols for all volunteer positions that require in person support.  Virtual volunteer opportunities are available when projects arise and the best way to stay informed is to have a completed volunteer application on record with us.
All volunteer applications are reviewed and applicants whose skills, interests and availability best match the requirements of our current volunteer positions will be contacted by a member of the Volunteer Program Team. 
Currently, Second Harvest does not require a Vulnerable Sector Check to volunteer.
Second Harvest does not accept court appointed volunteers. Due to the high volume of applicants, we give priority to volunteers who are seeking an ongoing commitment with Second Harvest. 
Yes, many of our events take place in the evening or on weekends. Check our individual volunteer opportunities or group volunteer opportunities. Due to the ongoing pandemic, some of our events have been put on hold at this time or are being held virtually. 
The best way to learn about volunteer opportunities is to become a subscriber to our monthly e-newsletter, The Harvest Journal. You can also follow us on social media and check in regularly on our website. 
Second Harvest’s headquarters is based in Toronto. While most of our volunteer opportunities take place at our headquarters, we do hold events across Toronto and the surrounding area which need volunteer support.  We’ll be offering more volunteer opportunities across Canada soon. Stay tuned for exciting details.
No, all volunteers, including corporate and community groups are required to book in advance of volunteering with Second Harvest. 
Volunteers must be a minimum age of 16 to volunteer with Second Harvest. Our most popular event for youth of all ages is Squash Hunger, which takes place in December.
Second Harvest offers a variety of meaningful opportunities for corporate groups to get involved. Please visit our Group Opportunities page to view our year-round activities and contact volunteer@secondharvest.ca to book the teambuilding experience of your choice. 
Volunteer experience will always enhance a resume but volunteering at Second Harvest does not guarantee a paid position at our organization. You can check our Careers page for employment opportunities and requirements for paid positions.

We couldn’t accomplish all that we have without volunteers

Second Harvest is grateful for every volunteer who lends their support and shares our vision of ‘No Waste. No Hunger.’  We recognize volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their commitment and service to Second Harvest.   


Outstanding Achievement Awards 

Outstanding Achievement Awards recognize the dedication of an individual or group who go above and beyond in their volunteer role(s), demonstrate commitment, and support the work of Second Harvest.  

Past recipients: Gaurav Bansal, Josh Jensen, Reanna Maharaj, Kathryn Ellis, Karen Hardy, Ken Nakamura, Pamela Neblett, Yan Moore, Deborah Mitchell, Victoria Genge-Narain, Gabrielle Cotton, Judy Nusinowitz, David Kopel, Susan Wetmore, Amanda Chung, Chiara Switzer, June MacDonald, Wendy Job, Ravi Nagraj, Antonette Wright, Maria Park, Pina Di Leo, William Leung, Elliot Steele, Alexander Radovac.  


Corporate Volunteerism Award 

This annual award recognizes a corporation or business partner that has provided exceptional and ongoing volunteer service to Second Harvest. They have embraced our mission and become a pillar of support to our organization.  

Past recipients: Weston Foods, TD Bank  


Mike Kic Spirit Award 

Mike Kic was a dear friend of Second Harvest whose willingness to serve and his commitment to our mission knew no bounds. No task was beneath him, no time was too early or too late, and no request for support was too much.  This annual award is presented to the volunteer who strongly supports our events and food/fundraising initiatives, in roles such as committee membership or event volunteers.  

Past recipients: Tamara Ramsey, Hyame Fadel-Jardine, Emily MacLellan, Andrew Patton, Mike Kic  


The Ian Lawson Van Toch Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award 

During his time with Second Harvest, Ian demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to community service. This award is presented, as warranted, to an exceptional young person or group, under the age of 21, who embodies a spirit of passion and initiative in their work with the community and Second Harvest.  

Past recipients: Voice Integrative School, Carter Ward, The Giles School, Sami Mendes, Arrabon House, Oliver Segal, Jake Grevier, Sarah Siddiqi  

Questions?

Have questions about our volunteer program? Reach out to us at volunteer@secondharvest.ca.

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