Change a child’s life
Our volunteers are at the heart of what we do. They bring life experience, time, and ideas to roles that shape our work and make a difference in the lives of Island kids.
Volunteering with Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island is more than lending a hand — it’s being part of a community that shows up with care and compassion for children and their families.
Whether you’re tending the gardens at our Homes Away From Home, helping behind the scenes, or supporting at events, your contribution helps Island families when they need it most.
Ways to volunteer
Individual opportunities
Check the opportunities below and apply. If you’re interested in joining our volunteer community and would like to be contacted about future opportunities, please submit a general application and join our volunteer pool.
Groups
If you are a corporate group, school group, local business, or friend group and are interested in volunteering with the Foundation, please contact volunteer@islandkidsfirst.com to learn more.
If your group is ready to apply, the leader can complete the group’s online application form.
Volunteers under the age of 19
If you are interested in volunteering and are under 19, please complete the online application form and have a parent or guardian complete the consent form.
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is a group of committed volunteers who provide governance and guidance to the Foundation. The Board meets every two months, and each Director is accountable for serving on one or two committees.
The Board seeks to represent our ethnic and Indigenous communities and ensure we reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. We are looking for individuals who can represent children with complex health care needs. Additionally, we are looking for individuals across Vancouver Island who have experience, relationships, and networks to support our work in projects and fundraising, as well as health care experience, legal expertise, or institutional investment expertise.
Please submit your resume or letter of interest outlining your background to Holly Cade at holly.cade@islandkidsfirst.com.
Current opportunities
Donor stewardship volunteer
Help us show our appreciation to the generous supporters who make our work possible. These conversations are a meaningful way to recognize their generosity and help strengthen their connection to supporting Island kids.
Skills and qualifications: Friendly, personable, and compassionate. Strong listening and communication skills, comfortable speaking with people on the phone. Should be able to work independently with a high level of professionalism. Training and ongoing support will be provided by our Annual Giving & Stewardship Manager.
Location: Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island Office – 345 Wale Road
Time commitment: Approximately once a month, with occasional busier periods. Tuesdays or Wednesdays are preferred.
How to apply: If you’re interested in this role, please email volunteer@islandkidsfirst.com.
Event support – Ice Cream Drop-in Social
Help create a memorable experience at our Ice Cream Drop-in Social. This is a special donor appreciation event celebrating the monthly supporters who make a difference for Island kids and families.
Role details: Assist with event setup and takedown, welcome guests and help with check-in, hand out ice cream tickets. Direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic to ensure guests have a smooth experience.
Skills and qualifications: Friendly, welcoming, and outgoing, comfortable interacting with the public. Able to stand and work outdoors for extended periods, with breaks provided.
Location: Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island Office – 345 Wale Road
Date and time: Friday, August 28, 2:00–7:00 p.m.
Outdoor upkeep at Jeneece Place
Help with outdoor work: light gardening and maintenance, watering plants, tidying outdoor patio areas, and general upkeep.
Location: Jeneece Place – 201 Hospital Way, Victoria
Dates and times:
- Saturday, July 25: 10 am – 12 pm
- Friday, August 7: 10 am – 12 pm (NEW)
- Friday, August 21: 10 am – 12 pm
Outdoor upkeep at Q̓ʷalayu House
Help with outdoor work: light gardening and maintenance, watering plants, tidying outdoor patio areas, and general upkeep.
Location: Q̓ʷalayu House – 565 2 Ave, Campbell River
Date and time: Sunday, August 9, from 2 pm to 4 pm
How to get started
Once your application is approved, you can sign up for volunteer opportunities in your region.
You’ll also receive notifications when new opportunities become available.
Review the volunteer manual and the resources in your account.
If you have any questions, please contact volunteer@islandkidsfirst.com.
If you’re applying as a group or are under 19, please use the appropriate application links listed here.
What our volunteers say
I enjoyed working independently in the garden and seeing the results of my effort. It was peaceful and meaningful, and I felt happy to support Q̓ʷalayu House.
The most rewarding part of the day was seeing that our efforts made a difference.
FAQ
What types of volunteer roles do you offer?
Most of our volunteer opportunities involve supporting community events across Vancouver Island, assisting in our office in Colwood, or helping at our Homes Away From Home in Victoria and Campbell River — such as gardening or light cleaning. While our work supports children and families, most volunteer roles do not involve direct interaction with children.
How do I sign up to volunteer?
Complete our application form to get started. Once your application is approved, you’ll be able to log in to your volunteer account to view and sign up for available opportunities. If you’re already an approved volunteer, you can sign up directly through your Better Impact account or email volunteer@islandkidsfirst.com.
Is there a minimum age to volunteer?
Yes. Some roles require volunteers to be 19 or older, while others are open to youth ages 16–18. Volunteers under 19 must have a parent or guardian complete a consent form.
In which cities do you offer volunteer opportunities?
Most of our volunteer opportunities take place in Greater Victoria, Campbell River, and Nanaimo. Opportunities may vary throughout the year depending on events and community needs.
Is there a minimum time commitment?
No. You can sign up for a single event or choose to volunteer on a more regular basis — whatever works best for your schedule. There is no minimum commitment required.
Contact us
To learn more or to inquire about volunteer positions, please email volunteer@islandkidsfirst.com.
250 940 4950
345 Wale Road, Victoria, BC V9B 6X2
With gratitude we acknowledge that we live, work, and play on the unceded traditional territories of the Coast Salish, Nuu cha nulth, Kwakwaka’wakw first peoples of Vancouver Island and surrounding islands.
“It takes a community to raise a child”: why Nancy volunteers
Rooted in community: Rhonda’s ongoing dedication to Jeneece Place
From grids to gardens: How one BC Hydro employee inspired his community to give back