The Gift of Time
Volunteer
For more information, call 403-253-2059 Ext.2 or email Volunteer Resources.
Volunteering during COVID-19
Volunteer with us
We’re thrilled you’re considering volunteering with us!
Our volunteer program looks a bit different due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We have a variety of roles and shifts available, but volunteers are limited to one shift per week in the same area and are required to commit to the same shift(s) on an ongoing basis.
We’ve changed our processes to keep our volunteers safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, including asking those at higher risk to stay home. Whether you’re a new or existing volunteer, please complete AHS’s COVID-19 personal risk evaluator before applying to volunteer or setting up a new shift. Please note we are asking those people identified as high/moderate risk of severe outcomes to volunteer only if they’re fully vaccinated (2 weeks after second dose).
New volunteers: Please fill out our volunteer application to start the process. Once your application is complete, you will get a link to complete our health and safety training; once it’s complete, you will be able to email our Volunteer Resources team to set up your shifts.
Existing volunteers: Please email us to set up a new shift; we’re not using Better Impact for shift signup at this time.
Volunteer Opportunities
Available shift times for all the volunteer opportunities are:
8 – 10:30 am, 11 am – 1:30 pm, 2 – 4:30 pm, 5 – 7:30 pm
Warehouse
Crate Washer
Call Centre
If patience, compassion and a strong desire to help describe you, the call centre needs your help. You are the critical first-point-of contact, answering client calls and scheduling hamper pickup. Training is provided. **Please note: call centre shifts are 30 minutes longer than other shifts.
Baby Room
Distribution
ID Scanner
Keeping the food bank community safe
Health and Safety
Please help us maintain a healthy and safe environment by taking the following precautionary measures while volunteering:
- Adhere to the recommended social distancing of 6 feet between people.
- Enter the building through the main client lobby sliding doors. At the end of your shift, leave the building through the Administration doors (follow the exit signs).
- All staff and volunteers are required to wear a mask.
- Please do not log in for your shift on the computer in the volunteer break room. Hours will be tracked by Volunteer Resources staff – no need to log in or out.
- We are not running our volunteer shuttle van. Please park on 12A Street SE or in the main lot in the volunteer parking spots marked with a red ‘V’.
- Please arrive as close to your shift start time as possible and leave the building promptly after your shift in order to minimize the number of people in the building at once.
the gift of time
Ready to volunteer?
For more information, call 403-253-2059 Ext.2 or email Volunteer Resources.
What you need to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete my court-ordered volunteer hours at the Food Bank?
We are not currently accepting volunteers for court-ordered service due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch this page for any changes.
How do I become a volunteer?
Please fill out our volunteer form on Better Impact to start the application process. Once your application is complete, you will get a link to our health and safety training and then be able to sign up for shifts by emailing our Volunteer Resource team.
What is the time commitment?
Volunteers can sign up for one shift per week. Contact us for more details.
E: volunteer@calgaryfoodbank.com
P: 403-253-2059, Ext. 2
How old do you have to be to volunteer?
To volunteer in our warehouse youth must be at least 12 years old. Youth 12 – 15 years old are required to volunteer with an adult, youth 16 years old and up can volunteer on their own. For special event volunteering, youth as young as 8 years old can join an adult.
How can I book a group?
At this time, we can only accommodate small groups to a maximum of three people. Groups must follow the same protocol as individual volunteers and commit to the same shift each week. If you want to register a volunteer group, please send us an email!
Can I just drop in to volunteer if I have free time?
We love the enthusiasm of all our volunteers, but all shifts must be booked in advance. Please contact us to set up a shift.
E: volunteer@calgaryfoodbank.com
P: 403-253-2059, Ext. 2
I'm a volunteer, where do I go to book a shift?
We are not using Better Impact for shift signup at this time. Please contact us to set up a shift.
E: volunteer@calgaryfoodbank.com
P: 403-253-2059, Ext. 2
Did You know?
Fast Facts
Numbers reflect our fiscal year, September 1, 2019 to August 31, 2020.
Volunteer Hours
Volunteer Groups a year
Calls in a year
different volunteer roles
Video courtesy of Calgary ShawTV
Terry Deets is one of our most dedicated and longest-standing volunteers. He volunteers with us four days per week, every week, and has been with us for three decades. Not surprisingly, he has become a fixture at the Calgary Food Bank.
“The staff and the volunteers at the Calgary Food Bank are like family to me.”
Terry Deets, Calgary Food Bank Volunteer
Want to know more?
Get in touch
For more information, call 403-253-2059 Ext. 2 or email Volunteer Resources.