14 Best Volunteering Opportunities in Winnipeg That Are Fun as Well as Rewarding
Some people might think volunteering is all about helping others, but that’s only half the story. As someone who’s been volunteering since I was twelve, I can tell you firsthand that it’s just as rewarding for the giver as it is for the receiver.
Volunteering lets you meet amazing people, gain new skills, and feel great about making a positive impact. Plus, it’s a fun and fulfilling way to connect with your community.
If you’ve been thinking about giving it a try, now’s the perfect time. To get started, here are some of the best volunteer roles in Winnipeg that are sure to inspire you!
Volunteer Manitoba
– Media credit: volunteermanitoba
Website: https://www.volunteermanitoba.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/volunteermanitoba/
Address: 428 Portage Ave #511
Hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 4:30 PM
Contact: (204) 477-5180
Volunteer Manitoba is the perfect starting point if you’re looking to give back to your community and have fun while doing it. Originally part of The Winnipeg Foundation, it’s now a hub for connecting eager volunteers (like us!) with nonprofits and charities.
One of their most popular roles is being a ‘No Feet on the Street’ Safety Elf during the city’s parades. As a Safety Elf, you get to help keep the parade route safe by gently reminding attendees of the rules—I mean, who doesn’t want to be a parade elf?
Another great option is volunteering for United for Literacy’s Afterschool Program. It’s an awesome way to help others while developing some seriously marketable skills, like literacy tutoring and working with individuals with learning disabilities.
Not sure which program to volunteer for? Check out their complete list of volunteering opportunities here.
| Pro Tip: If you’re pressed for time but still want to contribute, Volunteer Manitoba also offers Micro Volunteering opportunities. These involve short projects that can often be done independently—a good way to dip your toes in the volunteering pool! |
Assiniboine Park Conservancy
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Website: https://www.assiniboinepark.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/assiniboineparkzoo/
Address: 55 Pavilion Crescent
Hours: Mon – Sun: 11 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (204) 927-6000
If you’re an animal lover (high five!), volunteering at Assiniboine Park Conservancy is a perfect fit. Their vision is to inspire people to conserve nature for future generations.
One thing to note is that they don’t typically offer one-time or short-term volunteer opportunities, except for their special events. Examples include Boo at the Zoo that’s held during the Halloween season, and the winter exhibit, Zoo Lights.
If you’re able to commit to 60 hours a year, you’ll get the chance to enjoy any or all of their venues and events. Their flexible schedules also make it easy to fit volunteering into your life.
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning to volunteer with friends, family, or even as part of a corporate group, Assiniboine Park Conservancy welcomes you! Group volunteer projects, like park beautification and litter picking, are a great way to bond with your crew. |
Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre
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Website: https://wildlifehaven.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildlifehaven_mb
Address: 1028 Arnould Rd, Ile des Chênes
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (204) 202-3806
For decades, Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre has been a volunteer-driven charity that has cared for over 55,000 wildlife (wow!). Their goal is to rehabilitate and release injured, sick, and orphaned wildlife back into the wild.
The organization relies heavily on volunteers and generous donors to keep this important work going. So, if you’re passionate about wildlife and want to help, this is an incredible place to get involved.
There are a few ways you can volunteer, depending on what you’re into. As long as you’re 18 or older, you’re welcome to join.
As a Rescue Volunteer, you’ll aid in the rescue and transport of injured wildlife from across Manitoba. Or, you can be an Animal Care Volunteer, helping rehabilitation staff care for wildlife patients—feeding, cleaning, and supporting their recovery.
| Pro Tip: Based on my experience, Wildlife Haven tends to fill up their volunteer spots early in the season, so if your heart is set on joining, make sure to apply as soon as possible! |
Sage House
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Website: https://www.mountcarmel.ca/events/category/sage-house/list/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mountcarmelwpg/
Address: 422 Dufferin Ave.
Hours: Mon, Wed, Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM
Tue, Thurs: 9 AM – 8 PM
Contact: [email protected]
Sage House, a part of Mount Carmel Clinic, has been an important resource since the 90s. We really admire the team here, which provides a safe and supportive space for women-identifying individuals engaged in survival sex work.
What makes it so unique is that its programs are run by the women themselves. As manager Kim Stitt explains, the belief is that women are the true experts of their own lives, and who better to lead and educate them than each other?
This drop-in center and outreach program offers so much more than just a meal or a place to do laundry. It’s a community where women can connect with peers and share their experiences—and they definitely could use your help.
You can choose from their wide range of volunteer roles. Those interested in childcare, clerical support, or assisting with Indigenous and multicultural programs are more than welcome!
| Pro Tip: To volunteer, simply grab a paper application at the front desks of 888 or 886 Main Street, or reach out to the Volunteer Coordinator directly at 204-589-9425 or [email protected]. |
Winnipeg Humane Society
– Media credit: whsanimals
Website: https://winnipeghumanesociety.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whsanimals/
Address: 45 Hurst Way
Hours: Mon – Fri: 11 AM – 6:30 PM
Sat: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Sun: 12 PM – 5:30 PM
Contact: (204) 982-2021
As Manitoba’s oldest animal shelter and welfare organization, the Winnipeg Humane Society is dedicated to giving animals a second chance.
There are plenty of volunteer teams to choose from—you can work directly with endearing cats or dogs, join the foster or pet food bank team, or help out in the clinic.
If you’re part of a corporate group looking to give back, groups of 5-7 people can volunteer on shelter improvement projects. It’s a great way to bond with your colleagues while contributing to the animals’ welfare.
Another way to volunteer, which we participated in, is to be a Foster Parent through their WHS Foster Program. By fostering, we were able to help young, sick, or stressed animals recover in a loving environment before they joined their forever homes.
| Pro Tip: Unlike other organizations, WHS has Special Needs Volunteer Placements for people with physical, mental, or other disabilities. These roles are customized to fit the volunteer’s skills and abilities, with support staff provided by the agency if needed. |
St.Amant
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Website: https://stamant.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stamantmb
Address: 440 River Rd
Hours: Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 4 PM
Contact: (204) 256-4301
Another organization that’s near and dear to my heart is St.Amant. This nonprofit supports over 5,000 people in Manitoba who have developmental disabilities, autism, or acquired brain injuries.
For adults, volunteering means you can participate in recreational activities, help with swim sessions, or even become a pen pal. If you love connecting with people, you can make phone calls or enjoy face-to-face interactions that brighten someone’s day.
If you’re between 12 and 17, youth volunteering includes physical or virtual visits with people in community homes or at their main location. You can read, walk together, or play games—there’s always something fun to do that helps others.
The group welcomes family volunteers too! Volunteering with your fam is a great way to bond, learn new skills, and give back as a team.
| Pro Tip: Put your green thumb to use by helping St. Amant’s head gardener with planting, weeding, and maintaining the beautiful Buhler Reflective Gardens. |
Harvest Manitoba
– Media credit: harvestmanitoba
Website: https://www.harvestmanitoba.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harvestmanitoba
Address: 1085 Winnipeg Ave
Hours: Mon – Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Sat: 9 AM – 3 PM
Contact: (204) 982-3663
Since 1985, Harvest Manitoba has grown to become one of the largest food distributors in Canada! Today, they support over 100,000 Manitobans every month, helping hungry children, families, and adults who need a hand.
Those looking to volunteer solo can help by sorting food in the warehouse, assisting with client services, or pitching in at special events.
Planning to carve out some family time? Hit two birds with one stone by family volunteering in the warehouse. Kids as young as five can join in, and accommodations are made to keep little ones safe and engaged.
And if you’ve got a group looking for a team-building experience, teams of up to 25 can enjoy a fun and fulfilling day that includes a talk and tour, team-building activities, and hands-on work in the warehouse sorting food or packing hampers.
| Pro Tip: Harvest Manitoba volunteers must wear closed-toed shoes and comfy clothing that can get dirty, and avoid loose items like scarves or long necklaces. And from what I remember, the warehouse can be chilly in winter and hot in summer, so wear layers! |
CancerCare Manitoba
– Media credit: cancercare.mb
Website: https://www.cancercare.mb.ca/home/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cancercare.mb/
Address: 675 McDermot Ave
Hours: Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (204) 787-2197
CancerCare Manitoba is an amazing place to volunteer and make a real difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families. With seven locations in Winnipeg, the main site is a hub of activity where volunteers like us can contribute.
We’re impressed (and also quite touched) that volunteers have donated over 10,000 hours each year! Many choose to give back because cancer has touched them personally or affected someone they love.
You can give your time weekly or occasionally. Some popular positions include CCMB Ambassador, Gift Shop Clerk, Peer Support, and even helping in the Pediatric Clinic or Chemotherapy Clinic.
We have to admit that you need to jump through a couple of hoops first. Volunteers must complete an application form, attend an interview, provide references, and go through orientation.
| Pro Tip: If you can’t commit to a regular schedule, consider volunteering only at special events—a great way to make a difference while working around your own timetable. |
United Way Winnipeg
– Media credit: unitedwaywpg
Website: https://unitedwaywinnipeg.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaywpg/
Address: 580 Main St
Hours: Mon – Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM
Contact: (204) 477-5360
Founded in 1965, United Way Winnipeg helps local charities by funding programs that improve lives. Volunteers are the heart of UWW, offering their time, knowledge, and leadership to make Winnipeg a better place.
They focus on three main programs: All That Kids Can Be, From Poverty to Possibility, and Healthy People, Strong Communities.
One fun way to volunteer is by hosting a collection drive, which we did recently. We gathered friends, family, and coworkers to collect essential items for people struggling to meet their basic needs.
Prefer something hands-on? You can also create care kits from home—something we also did! Whether it’s personal care kits, activity kits, or family meal kits, these go a long way for Winnipeggers living on low incomes.
| Pro Tip: And retirees, don’t worry—UWW has you covered too! Their “What’s Next” program offers exciting volunteer opportunities year-round, from leading activities to lending expertise. |
The Forks National Historic Site
– Media credit: _a_n_a_s_t_a_s_y_a_
Website: https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/mb/forks
Instagram:https://www.instagram/forks-national-historic-site-winnipeg-manitoba/
Address: Forks Market Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact Details: (204) 927-7874
The Forks National Historic Site offers several volunteer opportunities, running from May through August.
One fun role is the Volunteer Program Assistant, which is ideal if you’re outgoing and friendly. In this role, you’ll be at The Forks Adventure Park, promoting the Xplorer booklets to adorable kids.
To get started, there’s a thorough application process. The volunteer coordinator will review applications, interview candidates, and conduct security screenings—so be prepared!
| Pro Tip: When you apply, include a cover letter answering questions about why you’re interested in volunteering and what experiences you bring to the role. Also, mention how often you’d like to volunteer—it shows you’re ready to commit and get involved! |
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Winnipeg
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Website: https://winnipeg.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbbswinnipeg/
Address: 532 Ellice Ave
Hours: Mon, Thurs: 10 AM – 3 PM
Tue – Wed: 10 AM – 3 PM, 5 PM – 8 PM
Sat: 12 PM – 4 PM
Contact Details: (204) 988-9200
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Winnipeg has been providing life-changing mentoring since 1912 (way before my parents were born!), helping 650 to 700 youth every year. It was also recognized as one of Financial Post’s Top 25 Charities.
Many children and youth in Canada deal with tough situations, from family violence to mental health issues. By becoming a mentor, you can be a guiding light for these young individuals.
To get started, just fill out an application and set up an interview. After that, you’ll need to gather a few references, go through a police check, and complete a child abuse registry check—it’s all pretty straightforward.
Once you’re in, you’ll go through some pre-match training to give you all the tools you need. After that, they’ll match you up with youth who will really benefit from your support—a thoughtful process that helps make sure you’re a great fit!
| Pro Tip: Be part of their innovative PRISM program, the first of its kind in Manitoba, tailored for the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Through PRISM, children and youth who identify as 2SLGBTQ+ are matched with adult mentors who share similar experiences. |
Craig Street Cats
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Website: https://www.craigstreetcats.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craigstcats/
Address: 1421 St James St #16
Hours: Wed – Sun: 2 PM – 5 PM
Contact Details: (204) 421-1919
Craig Street Cats is a feral cat management program dedicated to helping over 100,000 community cats in Winnipeg. They’re actually the only organization in the city actively working to humanely reduce the free-roaming cat population, which is pretty cool.
Volunteering here means keeping everything running smoothly by feeding the cats, cleaning litter boxes, playing with the kittens, or tidying up the adoption center. Plus, you’ll get plenty of purrs and cuddles along the way!
All volunteers are asked to pitch in at least 2 hours a week with the cats and help out at one fundraising event each year. But trust us, you’d want to donate more hours once you get to know the cute kitties.
Also, they’re always on the lookout for skilled volunteers. This means those with experience in event planning, graphic design, public relations, and more.
| Pro Tip: Craig Street Cats welcomes junior volunteers aged 6 to 16—a great opportunity for young people to learn about cat care and contribute to the adoption center. Just remember, junior volunteers need to bring a parent or guardian along. |
Green Action Centre
– Media credit: greenactioncentre
Website: https://greenactioncentre.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenactioncentre/
Address: 286 Smith St #300
Hours: No fixed schedule
Contact Details: (204) 925-3777
If you’re passionate about sustainability, then you’re meant to volunteer at Green Action Centre! For nearly 30 years, this non-profit hub has been helping Manitobans live greener lives.
As a volunteer, you can get involved in a variety of exciting green initiatives, which we’re super excited about.
One great way to make an impact is by participating in walk-to-school events that reach tens of thousands of children across Manitoba. Imagine the joy of seeing kids walking to school, all thanks to your efforts.
You can also help deliver classroom presentations or lead fun how-to-compost workshops to teach others about reducing waste and nurturing the environment.
| Pro Tip: Another way to help is to join the Commuter Challenge. This week-long event invites Canadians to swap their cars for active and sustainable transportation like walking, cycling, or carpooling—you could win some cool prizes, too! |
Winnipeg Public Library
– Media credit: winnipegpubliclibrary
Website: https://wpl.winnipeg.ca/library/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/winnipegpubliclibrary/
Address: Administration Office, 251 Donald St, 3rd Floor
Hours: Mon – Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Wed, Sat: 12 PM – 5 PM
Sun: 1 PM – 5 PM
Contact Details: (204) 986-6462
Fellow bookworms should definitely donate their time at the Winnipeg Public Library. This public library system offers literacy programs for everyone, from kids to adults.
A fun way to get involved is through the West End Literacy and Learning Program. Here, volunteer tutors aged 18 and up support instructors by helping learners improve their reading, writing, speaking, and math skills.
You could also lead English Conversation Groups by running weekly in-person or biweekly online sessions, guiding participants in basic English conversation.
No worries if you’re new to volunteering—extensive training is provided.
| Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check out the Manitoba Library Association, Prison Libraries Committee. Volunteers gather books for correctional centers and run programs like book exchanges and writing workshops. |