Every day, people come to VBIS looking for support, understanding, and connection. As a volunteer, you’ll help ensure they’re met with kindness, respect, and a welcoming community. VBIS offers a variety of different volunteer opportunities. Whether you hope to directly support clients at the office or help with our administrative side, there’s a role for you.
How It Works
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Ready to get started? Complete our Volunteer Application. If you’d like to learn more first, contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Sam, at samc@vbis.ca.
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After applying, you’ll hear from our Volunteer Coordinator within the next two weeks. Successful applicants will then be invited to an orientation, during which you’ll learn about VBIS, the people we support, and what to expect as a volunteer.
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Welcome to the team! Your first three months will be spent volunteering at the reception desk, allowing you to get to know our clients, staff, and organization while building confidence in your role.
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After your first three months, you can continue volunteering at reception or receive additional training to take on one of the extended volunteer roles outlined below.
Extended Roles
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Orientation Volunteer Role
Orientation volunteers are the first point of contact for prospective VBIS clients. You will have a conversation about each individual’s brain injury history, current symptoms, challenges, and existing supports. You’ll also introduce VBIS programs, discuss case management needs, and their goals.
This role requires strong listening and communication skills, attention to detail, sensitivity when navigating personal topics, and the ability to build rapport with people from diverse backgrounds.
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Train Your Brain Volunteer Role
VBIS offers a research-backed cognitive training program using NeuroTracker® software. Train Your Brain program volunteers facilitate weekly cognitive training appointments for VBIS clients. This volunteer role involves working one-on-one with clients to set up NeuroTracker® software, administer brain-injury related symptom checks, and provide support and guidance through the program.
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SHINE Volunteer Role
The SHINE (Student Head Injury Neuro Education) program is an education presentation designed to provide knowledge to students of all ages, adults, workplaces, caregivers, sports teams, and community groups, about the brain, brain injury, and recovery. Concussion is considered a mild traumatic brain injury that affects 7 out 10 youth before the age of 20.
The SHINE volunteer will be responsible for delivering the SHINE program to the community, ensuring the program is delivered in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment. The SHINE volunteer will work closely with members of the VBIS team to ensure the effective delivery of the program.