Volunteers make a significant contribution to our community at The New Vista Society, both in our Care Home and at our housing sites. Our volunteers enhance the services of our staff and add energy and fun to the lives of our residents, clients and tenants. Our volunteers come in a variety of ages, ethnicities and backgrounds and share a common concern for senior well-being. They are patient, caring, kind and enthusiastic, but also responsible, reliable and trustworthy. They are known for displaying a sense of humour with a willingness to learn. We also partner with corporate groups wanting to take on day projects at our sites like painting, gardening, or assisting with special events like BBQs and Easter/Christmas celebrations.
If you share these traits, we invite you to join the New Vista Volunteers. We ask for a minimum 40 hour commitment from our volunteers and a minimum 6 month commitment from our boutique volunteers. We really appreciate long-term, committed volunteers and hope you will stay longer. We’d be delighted if you would consider becoming a volunteer with our organization.
For our volunteer screening process we require you to fill out an application form including two personal or business references, complete an interview, sign an Oath of Confidentiality, complete an immunization record form and complete a Police Record Check (PRC) with the police in your community or a Criminal Record Check (CRC) through the Ministry of Public Safety. Volunteers must have a current influenza vaccination during flu season OR wear a mask while in the Care Home.
We hold Volunteer Orientation sessions for new volunteers; they are educational workshops of approximately 2.5 hours. At the orientation we look at The New Vista Society, our policies, how to visit with seniors, discuss our values and go on a tour of the building.
Example Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer opportunities are both structured and flexible depending on your time commitment and availability. Opportunities include working at our Housing Sites, the Adult Day Program or our Care Home. Some examples of opportunities are below:
- Boutique Cashier and Salesperson
- Boutique Sorter
- Adult Day Program Helper
- Dementia care one to one – walks, hand & shoulder massage
- Medical Appointment Escort
- Spiritual Care Volunteer
- Entertainer/Musician
- Pet Therapy Visits, contact us for more details
- Strength Training Porter
- Recreational Program Helper
- Walking Buddy
- Special Events and Projects for Groups
Meet a few of our Volunteers
“Volunteering at New Vista gets me up and going. It is the best thing in the world for me to be giving myself to others.”
“I never suspected how gratifying and fulfilling volunteering at New Vista would be. I’ve made very good friends. I feel like part of a lovely community with the staff and elders”
“Nice to be able to bring a smile to the face of others. I go away with a feeling of joy after volunteering. I wouldn’t get the same feeling if someone was paying me. When I volunteer at New Vista, something new and memorable happens each visit. I go away and think, ‘Wow that was remarkable.’ We’ll all be in vulnerable situations some day and need help. Makes me appreciate all that I have and could take for granted.”
“I get a sense of personal fulfillment knowing that my work at New Vista adds to the enjoyment of the residents and staff. Helping others and enriching the lives of others gives me satisfaction.”