Volunteer
Volunteer Opportunities
At NAOT, we offer a diverse range of volunteer opportunities that are both personally fulfilling and impactful to our communities. Explore the descriptions of the various roles available, select those that interest you, complete the application form, and upload your resume.
By joining NAOT’s vibrant volunteer program, you can play a crucial role in fostering a more inclusive and connected community. Our program provides numerous opportunities for individuals to contribute their time and skills in supporting newcomers as they progress on their journey toward successful settlement.
Application Process
Thank you for your interest in supporting community projects and helping to make Ottawa an inclusive city where all immigrants can share their gifts, skills, values, and culture.
We welcome everyone who shares our mission and wishes to join NAOT’s team of over 500 volunteers working across various programs and activities.
HOW TO APPLY:
- Read through the descriptions of our different volunteer opportunities and select the ones that interest you.
- Fill in the application form.
- Upload your resume.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SUBMITTING YOUR APPLICATION:
If your skills and availability align with our current needs, we will contact you for an interview to discuss the role and expectations. If selected as a volunteer, you will be asked to:
Complete a Police Record Check (PRC)
If you’ve completed a police record check within the past 12 months, please provide it to the volunteer coordinator. Thank you in advance!
If you do not yet have a police record check, please reach out to the volunteer coordinator to obtain a Volunteer Fee Waiver Letter. You can use this letter when applying for your police record check in person or online.
The Ottawa Police Service offers an online application process for police record checks, which is typically faster than applying in person. We require the Level 3 Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC). [Follow this link to apply for your PRC.]
Sign NAOT’s Code of Ethics and Conduct, Confidentiality Agreement, and Abuse Reporting Pledges.
Complete a mandatory online training for NAOT volunteers.
This training covers the Customer Service Standard, focusing on providing services that are accessible to people with disabilities.
The training takes about 45 minutes and must be completed in one sitting, as progress cannot be saved. Please save your results and email the certificate to us upon completion. You can access the training module [here].
After completing your orientation and training with the volunteer coordinator, you’ll be ready to begin your volunteer journey with NAOT!
What do volunteers do at NAOT?
Volunteers at NAOT provide valuable support to our staff across various programs. Volunteers can participate in a range of activities, including:
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
- Mentoring Programs – career and youth
- Youth Program
- Homework Tutoring – for children, youth, and adults
- Seniors’ and Women’s Programs
- Conversation and Social Group Activities
- Reception/Administrative Assistance/Office Support
- Tax Clinic
- Translation and Interpretation
With so many opportunities available, there is something to match the unique interests of all volunteers who wish to contribute their talents, skills, and time.
Apply Now
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use NAOT as a reference on my resume for work or school?
NAOT is willing to provide references for volunteers who have completed a minimum of 40 hours of volunteer service.
If I am a student can I receive credits for my volunteer work with NAOT?
This depends on your academic institution and must be organized through your school. Students may wish to apply for a student placement with NAOT, however, students are encouraged to apply in advance and arrange a placement before the start of the semester.
How many hours per week are required from volunteers?
A volunteer is asked to provide a minimum of one to four hours per week on average. A commitment of three months minimum is expected of all volunteers who join NAOT in order to make this a worthwhile experience for all persons involved. A successful volunteer experience requires commitment on the part of both NAOT and the individual volunteer.
Do volunteers work both during the week and on weekends?
The schedule for most volunteer work at NAOT is generally between 9-5 and 5-8 pm. On rare occasions, for example special events or private tutoring, there may be some work scheduled for weekends. However, this is generally the exception not the norm.
Do I work with people of all different ages as a volunteer at NAOT?
Yes. Depending on your area of interest and your past experience, you can be assigned to work with children, youth, newcomer adults, or seniors groups. For example, experience in early childhood education can likely be a great match for parents needing childcare assistance while they are involved in learning English language instruction through the LINC.
If I am not able to work on the week scheduled for my volunteer role, is it possible to re-schedule?
Yes. The volunteer position is flexible according to your schedule, although advance notice of absences is appreciated. The only exception is for childcare and classroom assignments. Commitment and punctuality are very important when working in coordination with families and teachers.