More information about volunteering in health
Getting started and eligibility
Age of volunteers
Age requirements vary by program:
- Long-term care: 14 years and older
- Immunization clinics: 16 years and older
- Office Support, In-Home Visitor, Healthy Start, Breastfeeding Companion, and Peel Regional Paramedic Services programs: 18 years and older
Opportunities for seniors and retired residents
Many volunteer roles are well suited for seniors and retired individuals, depending on program needs and availability.
Refer to volunteer opportunities for position‑specific requirements.
Time commitment and availability
Time commitments vary by role. Most volunteer opportunities require:
- A weekly shift of 2 to 4 hours.
- A minimum total commitment of 40 to 60 hours, completed over several months.
Short-term or event-based volunteer opportunities
Special events and short-term opportunities are available occasionally for individuals with limited or irregular availability.
Completing volunteer hours over a school break or in a short period of time
Unless it’s a short-term or event-based opportunity it’s not usually possible to complete volunteer hours over a school break or in a short period of time. Most volunteer roles are scheduled as weekly shifts and cannot typically be completed over a short timeframe.
Volunteering to more than one program
We recommend starting with one program. Additional opportunities may be discussed once you are settled in your role.
Refer to volunteer opportunities for role-specific expectations.
Skills, roles and boundaries
Volunteers should be comfortable interacting with clients, residents, and staff, and have strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
You must be able to communicate in English, both verbally and in writing. Knowledge of a second language may be an asset for some roles.
Using your professional, clinical, or technical skills as a volunteer
Volunteer roles are non clinical and have clear boundaries. Volunteers may not perform duties that are legally restricted to regulated healthcare professionals, such as nurses, personal support workers, physicians, or physiotherapists.
Screening and onboarding
Getting required documentation for volunteering
No action is required until a Volunteer Resources Coordinator has provided you with instructions.
Police check
Some roles require a Vulnerable Sector Police Records Check. You will receive instructions and forms only if this is required for your role. Costs vary by region. Costs are not covered by Peel Region.
TB test requirements
A TB test is required for Long Term Care volunteer role.
Paperwork timelines
Timelines vary. Police checks may take 2 to 4 weeks. A 2-step TB test takes approximately 2 weeks.
When you can start volunteering
You may begin once all required screening is complete and a suitable role is available. Volunteer Resources will contact you to schedule orientation.
Required training
All volunteers receive a general orientation, and task-specific training is provided as needed.
Refer to volunteer opportunities for position‑specific requirements.
Transportation, students, and employment
Volunteers are responsible for their own transportation to and from volunteer shifts.
Student practicums or public health placements
Student practicums or academic placements are not offered through the volunteer program.
Employment with Peel Region
Volunteer Resources staff are not involved in hiring, and volunteering does not guarantee employment with Peel Region.
How you’ll be contacted
Communication is sent by email. Check your junk or spam folder if you are expecting a message.
After you begin volunteering
Record of volunteer hours
Upon request, volunteers receive a certificate of hours after successfully completing their volunteer commitment.
Additional requirements for Long Term Care volunteers requesting proof of hours
Volunteers in Long Term Care must complete the specified minimum commitment before requesting proof of hours. Check with your Volunteer Supervisor for details.
If you have questions
Contact Volunteer Resources