From on-campus to across Halifax, there’s no shortage of opportunities for students to get involved in their community – or, even, make a difference on another continent.
This year’s campus Volunteer Fair, hosted by the Career Services Centre, takes place Thursday, September 15, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. in the McInnes Room of the Student Union Building. More than 30 exhibitors will be there to showcase the experiences and opportunities they offer students.
“Giving back to the community is such a vital part of life at Dalhousie, and it’s great to be able to highlight the many ways students can do so,” says Marc Braithwaite, assistant vice-president, student affairs.
“Volunteering is a great way to meet people, make a difference, and explore everything Halifax has to offer.”
And sometimes, even beyond Halifax – Youth Challenge International, a non-profit supported by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), will be one of the organizations with a booth at the fair. Their volunteer programs place young people with global partners in Central and South America and Africa on projects to improve youth livelihood, leadership and health in those countries.
“These fairs are a great way for us to reach our target audience,” says Heather Auden, volunteer program manager with Youth Challenge International, explaining that their projects can be as short as a week or two—perfect for students on winter or summer break—and can stretch to one-to-three months for students or new grads looking for a longer-term opportunity.
“University students make truly wonderful volunteers,” she adds.
Other organizations that will be present at the fair include Canadian Blood Services, Capital Health, Feed Nova Scotia, Junior Achievement, Progress Centre for Early Intervention, Skills Canada and many more.