Volunteers are the backbone of The Stop.
They help us maintain a community that is warm, dignified, and welcoming to anyone who enters our spaces.
Volunteers join us across our three locations to support our Emergency Food Access, Community Building, and Urban Agriculture programs.
83% of volunteers feel a greater sense of connectedness to the community through volunteering
78% of volunteers said they learned a new skill through the program
The Nitty Gritty
At The Stop, we ask all volunteers to make a commitment of one shift per week, for a minimum of four to six months. Shifts are three to five hours long, Monday to Friday, with limited availability on Saturdays at our Farmers’ Market. The majority of volunteering roles are for our Drop-in, Food Bank, and Good Food Market programs.
Those who are unable to commit weekly are welcome to become float volunteers, who are expected to attend at least two shifts per month.
I want to volunteer. Where do I start?
- Apply to be a volunteer online. If preferred, you can also contact our volunteer office to complete an application in-person.
- Attend a volunteer information session. These sessions are held bi-monthly on the second Thursday of the month at 1884 Davenport Rd.
- Let us know your availability, program preference, and other details.
- Attend a phone or in-person interview with the Volunteer team.
- Upon successful interview, complete a trial shift.
- After the first shift, meet with the volunteer team. Here, you’ll have a chance to reflect on the assigned role to ensure a good fit, and schedule your regular weekly shift.
Please note: Group volunteering opportunities can be arranged. Email lucy@thestop.org for more information.
I so look forward to my cooking session every week, it feels like such a safe and welcoming environment. Despite 4 hours of standing on my feet, chopping and prepping, I come home totally energized. I feel I receive much more than I give.