The first of two virtual volunteer fairs are being held this Saturday, June 19 to help people connect with local non-profit organizations, one-on-one, from the comfort of their home.

Renita Bartlett, Town of Cochrane community liaison and programmer with the voluntary sector, says they have a stellar lineup of organizations participating in the first-ever virtual volunteer fair. Previous to this, they were live events.

Showcased is a diverse range of 16 local nonprofits and organizations, from mentorship to sports, to community events, and more. 

Tomorrow, you can connect with:

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary and Area
  • Cochrane & Area Hospice Society
  • Cochrane and Area Events Society
  • Cochrane Immigrant Services Committee
  • Easter Seals Alberta 
  • Helping Hands Society of Cochrane & Area
  • Home Reno Heaven
  • Seniors for Kids Society
  • SLS Family Sports Centre
  • Sport 4 Life Cochrane
  • Volunteer Connector

Next Saturday, June 26, you can connect with:

  • Cochrane and Area Events Society
  • Cochrane Public Library
  • Cochrane Youth Justice Committee
  • Open Arms Advocacy 
  • Seniors on the Bow
  • Victims Services 
  • Volunteer Connector

Bartlett herself is a life-long volunteer and loves volunteering in the community.

Whether or not you're new to the community, she says it's a great way to meet new people, become familiar with the community, and help with some cool events and organizations. It's also an opportunity for continuous learning and personal growth.

"It gives you the chance to give back to the community and make our community the amazing place that it is, and of course, volunteering is lots of fun."

Despite the pandemic, there has been no shortage of volunteer opportunities or people seeking to pitch in.

Barlett says on average she received 10 phone calls a week from individuals wanting to lend a hand.

"There's definitely no shortage of amazing volunteers looking to be connected to organizations, and of course, there is no shortage of great organizations here in Cochrane."

Beyond the virtual fairs, Bartlett is available year-round through FCSS (403-851-2250) to seek out volunteer opportunities in the community. You can also email her at Renita.Bartlett@cochrane.ca.

"They can give me a call, and then I'll send them on their way with a list of organizations to connect with that really suit their interests in what they want to do," says Bartlett.

To find out more and to register, click here.

The full interview with Renita on volunteerism is attached.