How to Volunteer in the Fresh Air
When you think about volunteering, do you picture sitting in an office or working at a desk? For many people, that is the biggest barrier to signing up. After a long week of work, you want to be outside, not stuck indoors.
But helping your community doesn't have to mean giving up the sunshine.
The Numbers Show We Love the Outdoors
New data from Statistics Canada shows that 77% of us participate in outdoor activities close to home. That is nearly 8 out of 10 people who are already out walking, running, or enjoying our local parks.
If you are part of that 77%, you can easily combine your time outside with giving back.
Where to Find Outdoor Roles
Volunteering comes in all shapes and sizes. If you want to stay active and get some fresh air while you help, check out these categories on our site:
- Environmental Improvement This is the most direct way to help. From park clean-ups to planting trees, these roles let you get your hands dirty and improve the green spaces we all enjoy.
- Sports and Recreation Community leagues and runs always need help. Whether it's coaching, refereeing, or just handing out water bottles at a charity 5K, this is a great way to stay moving.
- Special Events / Festivals Windsor has a busy festival season. These events are almost always outdoors and rely heavily on volunteers to run ticket booths, set up stages, and guide visitors.
- Animal Care Shelters often need people to walk dogs or help with outdoor adoption events. It’s a perfect excuse to get a walk in while helping a pet find a home.
- Children & Youth Many youth programs run day camps, field trips, and outdoor activities that need supervision and mentors.
Double the Benefit
Volunteering outdoors gives you a "two-for-one" benefit. You get the mental and physical boost of being in nature, and the community gets the support it needs.
Don't feel like you have to choose between your active lifestyle and volunteering. Visit our Opportunities page today to find the perfect fit.
Source: Statistics Canada. Table 11-10-0002-01 Tax filers with charitable donations by sex and age. https://doi.org/10.25318/1110000201-eng