THE City of Surrey is relaunching volunteer programs that were suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and is in need of new volunteers.

“City of Surrey volunteers are an integral part of our organization,” said Surrey Mayor Doug McCallum. “During National Volunteer Week, we celebrate all the past, present and future City of Surrey volunteers. This year’s theme, ‘Volunteering is putting empathy in action,’ aptly describes City of Surrey volunteers. With empathy, volunteers relate to others and work towards the vision of building communities where people feel happier, healthier, and more connected. Our volunteers bring heart to the City of Surrey.”

Volunteers are vital and valuable in the City’s service delivery. Annually, City of Surrey volunteers contribute an average of 125,000+ hours of service.

Although the City’s volunteer programs were halted due to the pandemic in March 2020, staff stayed in touch with volunteers in providing regular program updates and resources. Over the last several months, Surrey has been re-engaging volunteers in several program areas. While many are eager to return to their volunteer role, the City is also encouraging community members to apply.

As volunteer programs relaunch in the coming weeks and months, Surrey is actively seeking volunteers in a number of programs across the city, including the following opportunities:

• Day Camps – Day Camp Assistant
  • Make a positive impact while connecting with children in the community.
• Special Events – Event and Activity Assistant
  • Special event volunteers support our annual events in various ways, including arts & crafts activities, face painting, button making, giveaways and more.
• Emergency Support Services – On-Call ESS Responder
  • Emergency Support Services volunteers work at Reception Centres and provide referral services such as shelter, food, clothing, comfort and support. Volunteers receive an orientation, free ongoing training and have the opportunity to take part in practice drills.
• Parks – Partners in Parks and Friends of the Forest
  • Friends of the Forest – Become a registered volunteer to be notified about upcoming stewardship activities such as tree planting, invasive plant removal events and more.
  • Partners in Parks – Keep Surrey’s parks clean, beautiful, and safe for all to enjoy. Opportunities include park cleanups, planting programs, community engagement, and more.

To explore volunteer opportunities, visit surrey.ca/volunteer.