FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the minimum age to volunteer at the Central Office of the Foundation?
We accept volunteers who are 14 years of age and older to participate in our volunteer program. All volunteers under the age of 18 must obtain parental consent on all of the volunteer forms prior to being accepted into the volunteer program.
Does the pink ribbon campaign count towards community service hours?
Yes. All volunteer contributions made toward the pink ribbon campaign are eligible for community service participation.
Can I telephone someone and find out more about volunteer opportunities?
Yes. Individuals interested in becoming a volunteer are encouraged to contact the Central Office Volunteer Resources Department at 416-596-6773 ext. 229 to find out more about volunteer opportunities, and request an interview appointment.
What do I do once I have filled out the application online?
Once you filled out a volunteer application, please submit it by mail, fax, (link to address) or in person and you will be contacted for an interview. *Please note that if you are under 18 years of age, you must obtain parental consent.
What happens after I send in my application?
Once your application is reviewed, an appointment is scheduled with you in person or by phone to review volunteer opportunities available and determine where your skills and interests are best suited. Volunteers will be invited to a one-on-one interview with the Manager, Volunteer Resources, Central Office.
What happens during the interview process?
Interviews are 30 minutes and include an orientation to the volunteer program followed by an instructional session in making pink ribbons. Interviews are generally scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays during business hours and the time can be adjusted to fit a volunteer’s schedule. Volunteers are welcome to bring a copy of their resumes to the interview.
Do I need to bring references?
Yes. Two references are requested from all volunteers. References should be from a previous paid employer or volunteer placement, teacher, coach or guidance counselor and cannot include family members or friends.
Can I accept or decline a volunteer position at the interview?
Yes. If you deem that the volunteer position does not meet your needs and/or suit your expertise you can decline the volunteer position. Should you decide to join the Foundation as a volunteer, we want to ensure that your time with us is rewarding and fulfilling. The Foundation realizes that volunteers enhance the services that it offers and respects its volunteers and staff.
Is there any orientation/training required?
Yes, depending on the volunteer position, you may take part in an orientation session and obtain group, or one-on-one training.
What is the Volunteer Orientation Manual?
To ensure volunteers are well informed about the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and the Central Office, each volunteer will be required to read the volunteer orientation manual. This orientation manual provides all volunteers with a global view of the activities within the Foundation and an understanding of how they fit into the operations of the Foundation.
What happens once I have been accepted as a volunteer?
Once you are ready to help, we will help get you started. If you ever have any questions or need help, the Manager, Volunteer Resources, Central Office is ready to assist throughout your volunteer experience.
What is the Volunteer Agreement?
Each volunteer is required to fill out a volunteer agreement at the time of accepting a volunteer position. The volunteer agreement outlines the expectations of the volunteer's involvement and the Foundation. *Please note that if you are under 18 years of age, you must obtain parental consent.
How do I go about requesting a reference letter that I am a volunteer or having my community service sheet signed?
Please contact the Manager, Volunteer Resources, Central Office at npoos@cbcf.org or 416-596-6773 ext 229 and request a reference letter. If you are picking up a letter directly from our offices, please give us three days notice to prepare your letter. Otherwise, all reference letters will be mailed to your home mailing address.