Join Our Team of Volunteers!
Volunteers are integral to what we do at ESS. Nearly 200 volunteers support our programs, services, and fundraising initiatives. They are central to every effort we undertake, and we could not accomplish what we do without them. Their contributions allow us to touch and significantly improve the individuals we aim to remain well and live independently in their homes and communities.
Many of our volunteers have been supporting ESS for many years. As a volunteer, you’ll be able to meet new people, learn new skills, gain experience, and make a meaningful contribution by supporting seniors and their families in our local community.
No matter what your interests, goals, and availability might be, there is a broad spectrum of volunteer opportunities open in ESS, including but not limited to:
- Adult Day Programs/Seniors’ Lunch Programs – Volunteers assist the staff team with kitchen help and participate in client-centered activities. Commitment Requirements: Minimum 1 day per week, 9:30 am – 2:30 pm, for a minimum of 6 months.
- Friendly Caller Program – Volunteers are matched with a senior to make virtual social calls via telephone. Volunteering is typically 1-2 hours per week with a minimum commitment of 6-12 months. Currently not accepting volunteers.
- Board Of Directors/Committees – ESS is governed and led by a volunteer body of 12 Board Directors. Volunteers on the Board bring various professional experience and skills in finance, human resources, business, law, community support, fundraising, advocacy, nursing, program analysis, and policy development.
- Fundraising and Events – Volunteer opportunities vary and depend on agency-organized events and projects. Examples include galas, walks, and seasonal events.
- Transportation (currently suspended until further notice) – Volunteers are matched with a senior to provide an escorted ride. Volunteer drivers use their vehicles to drive the client to/from appointments and social events. Volunteering is typically 1-3 hours per week with a minimum commitment of 6-12 months. ESS offers monetary reimbursement to volunteer drivers in the form of a tax receipt or $0.61 per kilometer traveled.
Student Placements – We also welcome students interested in completing placements. Our Adult Day Services program supervises and supports frail or cognitively impaired adults. Those who join us gain first-hand experience in delivering social, recreational, and physical activities, meals, and personal care, which is crucial in helping clients achieve and maintain their maximum functioning. A placement at ESS gives students a critical opportunity to apply theories learned in the classroom in a supportive environment alongside highly skilled and experienced professionals. Contact our Volunteer Services team for more information.
If you are interested in helping seniors, adults with disabilities, and their families live more fully and independently in their homes and the community, we would love to hear from you about how you would like to help as part of our team!
For questions, contact our Volunteer Services Team at 416-243-0127 ext. 505 or volunteer@esssupportservices.ca.
Please note: Due to a system error, online applications are down. Please reach out to Sherry, srutter@esssupportservices.ca to APPLY. Our sincere apologies for the inconvenience. If you applied in the last month, please follow up with Sherry.
Please Apply Through this link: ESS Volunteer Application.
Current Opportunities
We are currently recruiting for the following positions:
Position : Telephone Reassurance Volunteer
This program relies solely on volunteers who provide weekly telephone calls to help alleviate isolation and / or loneliness experienced by seniors and older adults with disabilities.
Position : Seniors’ Lunch Program Volunteer
Volunteers support the program by preparing for and cleaning up after lunch service, participating in group socialization and helping with program activities. This is a program for independent seniors.
Position : Adult Day Services Volunteer
Support our day program by preparing for and cleaning up after lunch service, with the option to also participate in group socialization and help with program activities. This program is for older adults with cognitive impairments and physical frailties. Currently recruiting for the following locations: 30 Rosemount Ave. (York), Toronto and 2245 Lawrence Ave. W., Etobicoke.