Volunteer with Us

We offer transportation assistance for clients who require drives to medical appointments, recreational activities, to run errands and to shop for essentials. Drives are provided from a client's home to a location in the community and back to ensure each client makes it safely to and from their destination. Vehicles can often accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.

Requires: An insured vehicle with a minimum $3 million third-party liability insurance (recommended) and the submission of a BC Driver’s Abstract

Our clients can request a volunteer to walk with them to and from a nearby destination for a medical appointment, recreation class, shopping trip, or errand. This is a great opportunity to encourage active living and help our clients get out in the community.

Volunteer visitors provide regular visits at a client’s home. Whether chatting over tea or playing a friendly game of cards, clients have the opportunity to connect with a caring volunteer for companionship. 

Social calls between a client and a volunteer offer the opportunity to connect from the comfort of a client's home. Clients are paired with a volunteer for weekly, ongoing connection.

A social walk, or wheelchair push, with a volunteer promotes active aging and a connection to community. Walks are a weekly, ongoing service to help build a rapport between client and volunteer.

Phone volunteers provide scheduled check phone calls that ensure the health and safety of a client who lives alone. Phone calls follow an emergency protocol to ensure the well-being of a client is maintained and should an emergency arise, a plan is in place to help that individual get the care he or she needs.

Requires: Access to a telephone and service that will not incur overage charge

Volunteers provide writing support by filling out forms and other documents.

Our clients can call in to be matched with a volunteer to enjoy a performance or visit a local gallery or museum. Volunteers are a roster and can accept assignments based on availability and interest in the event.

Requires: An insured vehicle with a minimum $3 million third-party liability insurance (recommended) and the submission of a BC Driver’s Abstract

Helpline volunteers are the first point of contact for the organization. Volunteers provide phone assistance to clients looking to access services, and provide information and referrals to the public. This role is hosted in our office where Helpline volunteers become an integral part of the operations of OBVS.

We participate in CRA’s Community Volunteer Income Tax Program and process tax returns for clients who have a financial status within the lowest tax bracket. Volunteers prepare and file tax returns on behalf of clients, assisting to insure all slips and information are accurately submitted.

Requires: A computer with Windows OS, internet access and a printer

Volunteers provide minor home repairs to address simple household issues should a client not have the financial means for a paid handyperson. Repairs can include small carpentry, electrical, plumbing and painting jobs.

Requires: A basic knowledge of home repair and the necessary tools to complete a job

Computer support volunteers help clients learn how to use a device or assist with installing software. This service is for minor technology support for those who need assurance and guidance with using and maintaining technology.

Requires: General computer knowledge and competencies

Volunteers can assist clients with a minor organizing job, such as packing a box of donations to take to a thrift store or helping organize a closet.

Requires: Access to a vehicle

Volunteers with green thumbs provide one-time or short term jobs to help maintain a client’s garden and grass should the individual not have financial means for a paid gardener. Services include weeding, pruning and mowing.

Requires: A basic knowledge of gardening