Volunteering is one of the most powerful ways for newcomers to grow personally, professionally, and socially in Canada. It helps you gain Canadian experience, build confidence, meet new people, and feel part of the community — all while contributing to a cause that matters.
If you’re a newcomer looking to take your first step toward integration, this guide explains why volunteering is important, where to volunteer in Edmonton, and how PASS Canada can help you get started.
1. Why Volunteering Is a Game-Changer for Newcomers
✔ Build Canadian work experience
Many employers ask for “Canadian experience” — volunteering helps you gain it.
✔ Improve your English skills
A few hours of volunteering each week dramatically improves conversation skills, pronunciation, and confidence.
✔ Make friends & build a support network
Volunteering connects you with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
✔ Obtain Canadian references
Supervisors at volunteer positions can provide reference letters, which can help when applying for jobs.
✔ Learn Canadian workplace culture
You’ll observe teamwork, communication, scheduling, punctuality, and professionalism — essential skills for paid employment.
2. Best Places for Newcomers to Volunteer in Edmonton
Volunteer Connector (Edmonton-wide listings)
The largest database of volunteer roles in the city.
🔗 https://www.volunteerconnector.org
City of Edmonton – Volunteer Programs
Opportunities in recreation centres, festivals, parks, and libraries.
🔗 https://www.edmonton.ca/programs_services/volunteering
Edmonton Public Library (EPL)
Volunteer at events, literacy programs, or conversation circles.
🔗 https://www.epl.ca/volunteer
Bissell Centre
Supports vulnerable community members through meal programs, donation centres, and events.
🔗 https://bissellcentre.org/volunteer
Edmonton Food Bank
Sorting donations, packing hampers, or helping at community drives.
🔗 https://www.edmontonsfoodbank.com/volunteer
Catholic Social Services
Supports newcomers, families, and community programs.
🔗 https://www.cssalberta.ca/Volunteer
Action for Healthy Communities (AHC)
Community events, youth programs, cultural initiatives.
🔗 https://a4hc.ca
3. Volunteering Options That Fit Newcomer Strengths
A) Community & Cultural Events
Perfect for improving English and meeting people.
B) Food banks & community kitchens
Hands-on work, no advanced language required.
C) Youth mentorship & tutoring
If you’re comfortable in English, youth tutoring is incredibly impactful.
D) Administration or office support
Perfect for newcomers with computer, writing, or clerical experience.
E) Interpretation & translation
Use your language skills to help others — Arabic, Tigrinya, Somali, Hindi, Urdu, Farsi, French and more.
F) Seniors support programs
Friendly visiting, social programs, and driving assistance.
4. What You Gain From Volunteering
Professional Benefits
- Stronger resume
- Canadian reference
- New job skills
- Networking opportunities
Personal Benefits
- Improved confidence
- Better English
- Feeling of belonging
- Routine and structure
Community Benefits
- Helping newcomers who feel the same struggles you did
- Supporting a more welcoming Edmonton
5. How to Choose the Right Volunteer Role
Ask yourself:
✔ Do I want to work with people or behind the scenes?
✔ Do I want to practice English?
✔ Do I prefer flexible hours or a consistent schedule?
✔ What skills do I want to develop?
✔ Is the location easy to access (bus route, neighbourhood)?
Most organizations are flexible and beginner-friendly — you don’t need advanced English or prior experience.
6. PASS Canada’s Volunteer Program
PASS welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds — newcomers, students, seniors, and professionals.
Our volunteer roles include:
- Community events support
- Newcomer mentorship
- Administrative assistance
- Child & youth program support
- English conversation practice groups
- Food & donation coordination
Volunteering with PASS gives you:
✔ Canadian references
✔ Training & experience
✔ A supportive multicultural team
✔ A chance to help other newcomers integrate
👉 When your new website is live, we’ll link to the volunteer form page here.
Final Thoughts
Volunteering is more than giving back — it’s a pathway to a stronger future in Canada. Whether your goal is to improve English, build your resume, or simply make friends, Edmonton has hundreds of newcomer-friendly opportunities.
You don’t have to start alone — PASS Canada can guide you toward the right volunteer role.
Ready to Volunteer?
Join PASS Canada’s volunteer community and help shape a more welcoming Edmonton.
📩 info@passcanada.org
📞 587-334-4897
