In the Drop-in Resource Centre, volunteers help make our space feel safe and welcoming.
Every shift is an opportunity to show up with care. Whether you are greeting someone at the door, helping in the café, supporting activities, or simply offering a calm and respectful presence, you help create a place where people can access food, connection, support, and dignity.
Volunteers are part of the everyday work of removing barriers so people can move forward.
What You’ll Do
Volunteer roles may vary by shift, but can include:
Reception and Welcome
You may help create the first point of care for people entering the space by:
• Greeting and checking in participants
• Answering phones
• Responding to general questions
• Helping people feel seen, respected, and welcome
Community and Floor Support
You may support the flow of the Drop-In Resource Centre by:
• Helping keep the space welcoming, calm, and safe
• Supporting participants with dignity and respect
• Assisting with recreational activities, art programming, games, or the Mini Closet
• Helping staff respond to the daily needs of the space
Café Support
You may help create a warm and practical place of care by:
• Preparing and serving coffee and snacks
• Supporting a welcoming café environment
• Helping make small moments of connection possible
Volunteer Shifts
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday
Morning Shift: 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Afternoon Shift: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Wednesday
Afternoon Shift: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Evening Shift: 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for volunteers who bring care, consistency, and respect to the space.
Volunteers should be:
• Friendly, respectful, and approachable
• Reliable and punctual
• Comfortable in a community-focused environment
• Able to follow guidelines and take direction from staff
• Open to working with people from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and life circumstances
• Committed to helping create a space rooted in dignity, safety, and belonging
Training and Support
You will not be asked to do this work alone.
Start Me Up Niagara provides training, guidance, and staff support so volunteers feel prepared and confident in their role.
• Training is provided before your first shift
• Staff are always on-site to guide and support you
• Clear expectations are provided for each role and shift
• Volunteers are part of a team working together to support the community with practical care and respect
Why Volunteer
A cup of coffee. A warm welcome. A steady presence. A helpful conversation.
These small actions matter. At Start Me Up Niagara, they help create a place where people are seen, supported, and able to take their next step forward.