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Volunteering with the PMFRC - Frequently Asked Questions
Why volunteer with the PMFRC?
We are rewarded by our volunteers on a daily basis, but our volunteers find volunteering with us a rewarding experience as well. Besides personal fulfillment, other benefits of volunteering include references for future job résumés, the ability to apply for internal PMFRC job postings, childcare reimbursement, plus free childcare, to use at your discretion, when you volunteer with children’s services.
Where can I volunteer?
Volunteering at the PMFRC will gives you the opportunity to choose any department that interests you. You can find out about all of the opportunities by clicking here.
What kind of work can I do?
Almost any. Our volunteers are helping out in so many valuable and rewarding ways such as North and South Side childcare, deployment activities, etc. Work ranges from childcare to office administration, deployment activities, clowning around, or any other task you may be interested in. Many programs require ongoing helpers, facilitators and organized individuals (behind the scenes) to keep their groups/workshops going. Find out more by visiting our opportunities page.
 Do I have a choice about where I volunteer?
Absolutely. We aim to match your interests and skills with the specific requirements of different departments. You'll be consulted about where you'd prefer to work as a volunteer. We'll also talk to you about the skills, interests, values or ambitions that you'd like to match with your volunteering opportunities. We take volunteer management seriously. It is important for both you as a volunteer and us as a team to help develop skills of interest, and to manage your volunteer experience to have it meet your needs and benefit you the most.
What is the procedure to become a volunteer?
There is a set procedure for everyone who becomes a registered volunteer with PMFRC. To become a volunteer with the PMFRC you must attend a brief 2 hour orientation session, plus allow us to do a criminal check and hear from one of your personal references. Once we have the two written documents back and you have attended the orientation you are ready to volunteer. Our Volunteer Coordinator will provide a one-on-one volunteer orientation in French or English to volunteers who request it.
Are there age restrictions?
You must be at least 12 years old in order to volunteer with the PMFRC. We are fortunate to have a great group of youth volunteers with the PMFRC. It is not only a great way for our youth to become involved in the community, but it is a wonderful opportunity to help our youth meet their Community Service Hours. Check out our Youth Volunteer page.
 Do I need references? Do I need to have a criminal police reference check?
We require a criminal check and a personal reference check. Both of these forms will be provided to you. Don’t worry we will guide you through the process of completing them and sending them way.
How long do I have to commit for?
It's your choice. Your commitment to a particular volunteer position depends entirely upon your circumstances, interests, and the length of time you are available for.
How much time do I need to give?
You can volunteer at any time of the week, day or evening. While most volunteering takes place during office hours, you can volunteer at evenings and weekends too, depending on what you want to do.
Do I need experience or qualifications?
This depends entirely on the opportunity. Attitude and experience are very important. Some volunteer roles require specific job skills or qualifications, while others ask only for a willingness to learn.
I work full-time - can I volunteer?
There are many volunteer opportunities that do not require you to be available during "normal" office hours. One of the best things about volunteering is that it can be done at a time that best fits with your lifestyle. As well as on-going opportunities, we offer you the chance to volunteer seasonally, intermittently, or for one-time occasions. We are looking for volunteers that are able to volunteer evenings and/or weekends. There are also volunteer opportunities to help out on and off-site. If you live in Pembroke for example, perhaps you would consider being a Bingo Country volunteer.
What happens if I start volunteering but I decide to leave?
You're under no obligation to keep a volunteer position that you're unhappy with. To see if your issues can be addressed, talk with your supervisor before you give an appropriate amount of notice that you're leaving your voluntary role.
What can I do afterwards?
The skills and experiences that you gain while volunteering are often very useful for careers and life generally. The skills and experiences may enhance your resume. Many people use volunteering to road-test a new career or to secure paid employment; others find the experience valuable for personal reasons.
Can I volunteer in French, or work in a bilingual area to practice my French?
Absolutely, many of our areas of interest provide the opportunity to volunteer in French or English to help provide the chance to learn or practice a new language, or to work comfortably in your primary language.
 More Questions? 
If we haven't answered your question, call the Volunteer Services at 613-687-1641 ext 2271 or email us with your question and we will try to answer it and publish it online.
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The information on this page is provided by Volunteer Services
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