Moose Jaw has been called one of the most volunteer-rich communities in the province, and many of the local organizations trying to make the city a better place are only able to operate thanks to the countless hours contributed by dedicated volunteers.
Many of these vital roles are filled by adults over the age of 55 who bring their time, hard work, and expertise to assist community organizations in their quest to improve the community. In turn, volunteering helps seniors stay active, remain connected to the community, and helps promote a stronger sense of self-worth.
Here’s a look at some of the volunteer opportunities in Moose Jaw:
Western Development Museum: The Western Development Museum is a great venue for older adults to volunteer and help contribute to the museum’s archives by sharing first-hand accounts from their experiences growing up in the province. Museum events happen throughout the year and range from Lego building to steam engine demonstrations to fashion. For volunteer information, contact Alexis Jones at 306-693-5989.
Moose Jaw & District Food Bank: The food bank consistently needs volunteers to help with a variety of tasks including the sorting of food donations and assembling food hampers. The food bank can be reached at 306-692-2911.
Humane Society: The Moose Jaw Humane Society has plenty of options for volunteers who love the cute, cuddly animals that call the shelter their temporary home. Volunteer hours run from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday, and duties include socializing with dogs and cats, selling books at the on-site bookstore, and special events throughout the year. To contact the Humane Society, call 306-692-1517.
Churches: Moose Jaw has around 40 local churches and most require help running programs from time to time. One example is the lunch program run by St. Aidan Anglican Church and St. Andrew’s United Church. Events such as the Better Together Food Drive happen with the support of the Hillcrest Apostolic Church. You can reach out by calling any of the local churches. St. Aidan's can be reached at 306-694-5445, St. Andrew’s can be reached at 306-692-0533, and the Hillcrest Church can be reached at 306-692-5600.
Band and Choral Festival: The Moose Jaw Music Festival takes place each year and is long-standing tradition. Each year, the festival is made possible only through the help of volunteers. The festival requires over 250 man-hours just to get organized, and if sufficient help is unavailable, upcoming festivals may not be possible. To volunteer, email MooseJawMusicFestival@hotmail.com.
Newcomer Welcome Centre: Both the Newcomer Welcome Centre and its parent organization, The Moose Jaw Multicultural Council are greatly supported by volunteers. Many volunteer options are available in areas that include group facilitators, English language tutors, putting together welcome packages, and more. For currently available opportunities, contact Gaby Carmona at 306-693-4677.
Providence Place: The Spiritual Care & Volunteer Team Lead at Providence Place co-ordinate the efforts of volunteers who help in a wide range of roles including gift shop services, socializing with residents in the Maguire Centre, assisting the Spiritual Care Team, and accompanying residents off-site to valuable social outings. For more information, contact Cheryl Thul at 306-694-8836. More information can be found at ProvPlace.ca.
Hunger in Moose Jaw: Among the programs open to volunteers at Hunger in Moose Jaw are the child nutrition program and The Good Food Box. The child nutrition program is designed to enhance children’s capacity to learn and develop, and around 300 lunches are provided daily to children across 18 local schools. To volunteer, call 306-692-1916.
Alternatively, The Good Food Box provides fresh fruit and vegetables to the public through a bulk buying program. Volunteers are needed to pack the boxes. For more information, call 306-693-0754.
Heartland Hospice: At Heartland Hospice, volunteers play a significant role in the lives of patients they serve, including the friends and families of the terminally ill. Volunteer opportunities include a Serenity Garden beautification team to maintain the garden at Pioneer Lodge, a Supportive Care Committee, and help with public engagement and fundraising. For more information call 306-690-8699.
Volunteers are also sought for palliative care through the Saskatchewan Health Authority. This care includes physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects. Training may be required prior to volunteering. For more information, visit SaskHealthAuthority.ca.
Sidewalk Days: The iconic Moose Jaw Sidewalk Days Festival is run entirely by volunteers, and there are many ways an individual can help. Volunteers work in two-hour shifts, and for each shift, they’re typically entered to win gift cards to several local businesses. For more information, contact Tourism Moose Jaw at 306-693-8097 or email volunteer@tourismmoosejaw.ca.
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