Volunteer

A fired-up community of trailblazers working to extinguish arthritis!

We are on a mission to fight the fire of arthritis - with everything we've got. If arthritis has come for you or someone you love, you've come to the right place to take action.

Our talented volunteers are involved in virtually all aspects of our work, working alongside us to increase our reach and impact on the lives of those impacted by this relentless disease. 

Please be aware that our programs are always evolving so our volunteer needs may change as well. 

Volunteer Opportunities

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To learn more, please select the volunteer program below that you are interested in applying for.

FAQs

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• How can I get involved?

  To get involved, please select the volunteer program you are interested in (Advocacy, Programs & Digital Services, Innovation, Research, Administration, Special Events & Fundraising) and complete a Volunteer Application Form on those pages.

• What is the volunteer application process?

  

• What kind of opportunities are there?

  We have a number of volunteer opportunities that align with our organization’s strategic plan. Learn more by clicking on the volunteer opportunities (advocacy, programs & digital services, innovation, research, administration, special events and fundraising) listed above.

• Do I have to have arthritis to help?

  No. You do not have to have arthritis or know someone with arthritis to get involved. In some situations, certain programs do require volunteers to have lived experience with arthritis. When relevant, this is noted on the volunteer application. 

• Are there ways for me to volunteer remotely?

  Yes. We understand that some people who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of those affected by arthritis are not able to do so within the traditional work schedule. Therefore we welcome those who perhaps want to contribute virtually or in their local community. A volunteer lead can work with you to detemine the best fit including roles that can be done outside of both the office and office hours. 

• How much time do I have to commit?

  Volunteer time is based on many factors including the volunteer position being filled, your schedule, and the community's needs. Many positions are flexible and we are committed to making volunteering with us accessible. We do ask that you discuss what commitment you can make and any factors that could interrupt that commitment with your volunteer lead in advance of starting.

• Do you have short-term opportunities to volunteer?

  Yes, many of our volunteers choose to contribute once or twice a year to support various initiatives including our various special events or our donor appreciation calls.

• How will I learn what I need to know?

  We want our volunteers to be well prepared, confident and ready to contribute when they get started. We ask all of our volunteers to participate in an orientation process to provide them with all the information they need to be successful in their role. This training will be provided both online (in accessible formats) and in person. However, we also encourage you to direct your questions to your volunteer lead at any point if you are unsure. 

• May I volunteer my specialized skills or training through my role with Arthritis Society Canada?

  Yes. If you feel you have specialized skills to offer to the cause (e.g. marketing, management, administration, event planning, photography) and are willing to share some of your expertise, please indicate these on your application form or email volunteer@arthritis.ca to learn more. 

• Does everyone that applies get accepted to volunteer?

  We thank all applicants for their interest in volunteering with Arthritis Society Canada, however, please be advised that not all candidates can be selected to join our volunteering program. 

• Can I volunteer to get community service hours?

  Yes. We ask that you discuss the requirements of a community service program with your volunteer lead and come to a shared understanding prior to getting started at Arthritis Society Canada. 

• Can I get a reference?

  We will provide all volunteers with an 'acknowledgement of service' which provides an account of their contribution. A 'letter of reference' outlining a volunteers skills, commitment, attitude, work ethic, etc., will be provided at the discretion of your volunteer lead based on their working relationship with you. 

• What will I gain from volunteering?

  Volunteering with Arthritis Society Canada is a great opportunity to learn about arthritis, its impact, the mission of Arthritis Society Canada and how we are transforming the lives of those affected by arthritis. It is also an opportunity to connect with the arthritis community, share experience, receive support, gain skills and work experience, and have fun.

Get in touch

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Have a question about volunteering with Arthritis Society Canada? Contact the team at volunteer@arthritis.ca or phone 1.800.321.1433