“Volunteering with Fife House has allowed me to reconnect with my community as a queer person in ways in which I hadn’t dreamed of. I didn’t realize how disconnected I truly was from the community at large and am proud to say that I have grown more into a well-rounded person and feel like I am contributing to people who truly benefit from my volunteer experience.” – E. Hunt
Interested in volunteering? To apply online, complete the volunteer application form.
For all post-secondary students interested in placement opportunities, click here.
Since Fife House’s incorporation in 1988, volunteers have been the cornerstone of our agency. Our volunteers are an integral part of Fife House without whom we would be unable to deliver programming to people living with HIV/AIDS. The agency is grateful and fortunate to benefit from the services of approximately 300 dedicated individuals, contributing over 15,000 hours annually to:
- Provide direct service to clients;
- Assist with administration/ reception;
- Assist with fundraising initiatives and events;
- Govern and provide strategic direction to Fife House (board and committees);
- Utilize their lived experience to support and enhance the quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS.
We would be unable to deliver programming to people living with HIV/AIDS without the volunteers who contribute countless hours of volunteer work each year. Our very dedicated volunteer team donates their talents, skills and time to help Fife House in virtually every area of the agency, from direct service to our clients to administration, governance and fundraising.
The commitment and passion of our amazing group of volunteers is at the core of our excellent record of service delivery. We are forever thankful for the contributions of our volunteers, so to all of you, THANK YOU!
Volunteer Requirements
To become a volunteer, potential applicants must meet the minimum time commitment of 1 year (depending on the volunteer role), possess the necessary skills and agree with the mission statement, philosophy and policies of the agency. Volunteers must be a minimum of 18 years of age. Fife House is committed to encouraging diversity in its volunteer program and encourages people living with HIV/AIDS to apply for its volunteer positions.
All volunteers must attend the Volunteer Information Session and orientation prior to volunteering. These sessions are offered at various times throughout the year. Further mandatory HIV 101 and the social determinants of health training is conducted in partnership with the Toronto HIV/AIDS Network (THN) and other AIDS Service Organizations and is offered once or twice per year. These trainings include an orientation to Fife House, its programs and services and information about the clients we serve, boundaries and confidentiality workshops, code of conduct, diversity workshops, etc. Other specific trainings may be required depending of the volunteer position, such as food handler’s certification, etc.
As Fife House provides services to vulnerable individuals and families and expends large amounts of resources placing and training new volunteers, consistent volunteer attendance is required. Minimum time commitments help ensure client comfort and consistent agency operations.
Police Reference Checks are a requirement for all cash handling, fundraising, board/committee, and client care position. This process is confidential and paid for by Fife House. Our Community Engagement Team will assist with this process and can answer any questions that you may have.
Placements for new volunteers occur year round. If you are interested in applying to volunteer at Fife House, you must meet all the requirements for volunteering, including availability, skills, minimum age and especially minimum time commitment. Volunteer applicants are asked to seriously consider their availability and willingness to commit prior to undertaking their volunteer activities.
