Volunteer Opportunities

Arid residents live in a non-medical but supportive environment with access to counselling and support with staff familiar with the challenges facing recovering alcoholics and addicts.  A long-term vision of ARID is one of "a hand up not a hand out"!  Residents are required to attend 12-step meetings, take on chores and regain or learn new life skills.  The tools provided focus on strengthening a person's self-esteem, motivation and the ability to return to their families and the community free from addiction and equipped to live a full life again.  Since its' inception, ARID has been instrumental in helping more than 3,600 individuals become sober, responsible and contributing members for their families and in their communities.

For more information, please contact Mike Lambert at m.lambert@aridhomes.ca or call (905) 871-7041

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara's mission is to "enable life-changing mentoring relationships that ignite the power and potential of young people" and to ensure that children and youth realize their full potential. We understand that many children and youth in Niagara struggle with societal barriers and face adversities in their lives. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara offers a wide variety of no-cost mentoring opportunities to meet the varied needs of children, families and volunteers. Our mentors serve as role models, teach by example the importance of giving back, staying in school and having respect for family, peers and the community.

For more information about volunteering, please contact: Christina Lajeunesse at christina.lajeunesse@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca

The Black Creek Community Association (BCCA) has a rich history dating back to its inception in 1953 when it was founded by a group of Douglastown citizens who shared a vision of establishing a community center. This vision became a reality in 1987 when the BCCA successfully purchased the Black Creek School. Over the years, the BCCA has evolved into a vital community hub, serving as the focal point for various events and activities.  In addition to its role as a venue for community events and organization meetings, the BCCA offers its facilities for rent. Equipped with a fully outfitted kitchen and updated washrooms, the center provides a versatile space for various functions and gatherings.

For more information please contact: Lisa at black.creekca@outlook.com

BGC Niagara is part of a national movement with over 700 community locations throughout Canada, including three in Fort Erie.  Together, the movement provides innovative and effective programs to assist in the healthy educational, social and physical development of Canadian children and youth.  For over 60 years in Niagara, professionally trained staff and dedicated community volunteers have helped thousands of children and youth in safe, supportive environments, with opportunities to gain the confidence and skills they need to achieve their dreams. 

For more information about volunteering, please contact: Chris Seabrook at c.seabrook@bgcn.ca or (905) 871-2592

Brain Injury Association of Fort Erie (BIAFE) formerly Head Injury Association of Fort Erie has been a cornerstone of support for families and individuals coping with brain injuries for nearly four decades. Originating from the compassionate initiative of two mothers, BIAFE has evolved to provide a wide range of services tailored to the needs of its community. Initially focused on supporting families grappling with the aftermath of brain injuries, BIAFE recognized the pressing need for expanded services due to a lack of resources in the Fort Erie area. Consequently, the organization broadened its scope to encompass individuals directly affected by acquired brain injuries. BIAFE's diverse array of support programs reflects its commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges associated with brain injuries. These programs encompass various therapeutic activities, as well as recreational pursuits, and social outings. Additionally, BIAFE offers practical assistance through life skills development and specialized groups. Beyond its direct service provision, BIAFE serves as a vital link to essential resources and support networks within the community. Moreover, the organization extends its advocacy efforts to navigate complex systems and providing support in medical or legal matters. A cornerstone of BIAFE's approach is its personalized care, which includes home visits for those in need. This commitment underscores the organization's dedication to meeting individuals where they are, ensuring that support is accessible and tailored to each person's unique circumstances.

For more information please contact: Becky Porter at (905) 871-7789

Canadian Mental Health Association

CMHA Niagara provides free mental health and addiction services, programs, consultations and resources to support Niagara resident (16 years and older) who are experiencing mental health challenges.

For more information about volunteering, please contact: Karen Marazzo at (905) 641-5222 ext.2644

Community Crew a registered charity in the Niagara Region that provides lunches at school to food insecure children who would otherwise go without.  A team of dedicated volunteers each week pack and deliver 4,500 fresh, healthy lunches to 33 area public and catholic schools in the Niagara Region.  We "provide hope to children, one lunch at a time."

For more information visit online at https://www.communitycrew.ca/

Community Living-Fort Erie advocates for, and promotes that all people with intellectual challenges benefit from living in the community, participate in activities of their choosing, enjoy real friendships and relationships and have the opportunity to further their education, join the workforce or volunteer.

For more information about volunteering, please contact: Marg Fidler at mfidler@clfe.ca or (905) 871-6770 ext. 239

Community Outreach Program Erie (COPE) has been providing services to the citizens of Greater Fort Erie since 1983.  The services COPE provides are free and confidential, we assist people coping with and working through difficult situations, primarily when it comes to food insecurity.

For more information please contact Outreach@becon.org

Douglas Memorial Hospital Auxiliary supports the staff, patients and families of the DMH by purchasing equipment, running a Tuck Shop and vending machine within the hospital, granting scholarships to students entering colleges or universities for health-related fields and supporting health services within our community.

For more information, please contact Marie Alexander at DMHA03@gmail.com 

Fort Erie Conservation Club was established in 1983 with the goal of saving and defending from waste, all of our natural resources – soil, minerals, waters, forests, and wildlife.  The organization hosts a variety of events including a community tree giveaway, children's fishing derby, fall fair and build birdhouses and feeders.

For more information visit online at https://www.forterieconservationclub.ca/

Fort Erie-Co-operative Preschool provides a safe, stimulating space for children to learn about the world around them. We deliver nursery, preschool and kindergarten programs for children between the ages of 20 months and 6 years that start them on the path to a life-long love of learning. At preschool, they build relationships, express their individuality and embrace independence while they learn important literacy and numeracy concepts through play and fun activities.

For more information, visit online at https://fepreschool.com/contact-us/

The Fort Erie Figure Skating Club (FEFSC) along with its certified professional coaches and staff, prides itself in providing a way for skaters of all ages to reach their goals through our CanSkate and StarSkate programs. 

For more information, visit online at https://www.forteriefigureskatingclub.com/contact

Fort Erie Jr. "B" Hockey Club provides a hockey program that is designed to aid and encourage the development of youth in the community in the field of amateur ice hockey at the Jr. "B" level.

For more information please visit online at https://meteors.gojhl.ca/contact   

Fort Erie Lafrance Association is a group of volunteers dedicated to enrich the community's understanding of it's firefighting heritage and to promote fire prevention education.  The static display of antique firefighting equipment can be viewed at the museum and is open to the public.

For more information please visit online at https://forterielafrancefirefightingmuseum.com/contact.html   

The Fort Erie Lions are a group of service minded people, who join together in friendship to give their time and energy to make a difference in our community - and we have a lot of fun while we do it!

When you become a Lion, you become part of Lions Clubs International, a global network of volunteers working together to make a difference.

For more information, visit online https://www.forterielions.com/contact/

The Fort Erie Lions Senior Centre at Douglas Heights is a centre for seniors 50+ providing physical, intellectual and cultural activities.

For more information please contact douglasheights@cogeco.net or call (905) 871-7761

Meals on Wheels is a non-profit, volunteer service providing home delivery of hot and/or frozen nutritious, well-balanced meals to:

• Senior Citizens (age 65 +) who cannot prepare or obtain a nutritious, well-balanced meal for themselves;
• An individual who is mentally and/or physically challenged, regardless of age;
• Adult convalescents discharged for a hospital or care facility or
• An adult at nutritional risk, regardless of age

Fort Erie Minor Lacrosse Association provides a lacrosse program for players from the age of 4 to 20. The sport allows the players to develop community spirit and encourages sportsmanship and fellowship among all participants. 

For more information please visit online https://forterielacrosse.com/about-us/     

The Fort Erie Multicultural Centre provides refugee reception and information services, language training, career planning, community education, and general settlement services and migration adjustment support for refugees and immigrants new to Canada, living in Fort Erie.   We assist in connecting newcomers with the Fort Erie community in many capacities, provide participant families and youth with engaging activities and events, as well as volunteer opportunities within our organization and in the community that will assist them in gaining meaningful experiences, relationships, and a sense of belonging to the community. 

For more information please contact Sondra Barrett, Outreach and Connections Coordinator at sondrab@firststepsincanada.com or call (905) 871-3641 

Optimist Clubs are dedicated to “bringing out the best in kids” and helping with community service programs. The Fort Erie Optimist Club was founded on May 28, 1975. Since then, we have served the youth in our community by hosting youth events, fundraisers, award ceremonies, and through club donations to likeminded programs or directly to youth in need. 

The Fort Erie S.P.C.A. is a charitable not-for-profit organization dedicated to the welfare of all animals and to promote humane treatment of all animals.  We provide a home for all the animals that have been abandoned or lost until we can find a suitable and loving home for them.

For more information, visit online www.forteriespca.ca

Fort Erie Tennis Club is your destination for inclusive and affordable tennis fun! With six well-maintained courts, including clay and hard surfaces, and amenities like accessible washrooms and a ball machine, we offer convenience and comfort for players of all levels. From youth programs led by accredited instructors to adult lessons, tournaments, and social events, there's something for everyone in our vibrant tennis community.  Located at 353 Central Avenue, new members and volunteers are always welcome to join us in fostering a love for tennis at Fort Erie Tennis Club.

For more information, visit online https://forterietennis.ca/about/contact-us/ 

Friends of Crystal Beach is a community group dedicated to preserving and enhancing the natural beauty of our beloved beach. We believe that together, we can make a positive impact on the environment and create a thriving community. Join us in our mission to protect and promote Crystal Beach.

For more information please contact friendsofcrystalbeach@gmail.com

The Friends of Fort Erie's Creeks (FOFEC) are committed to supporting the health and continuous improvement of the fragile ecosystems found within the boundaries of the Fort Erie Watershed for the benefit of people and wildlife.

Our steadfast commitment is supported through mandated core values including, but not limited to, environmental monitoring, restoration and education: continuously monitoring the environment and undertaking interventions where required, raising awareness of environmental stressors through education, and fostering cooperative efforts between government agencies, peer organizations, industry and the public.

The Friends of Gilmore Lodge are a group of dedicated volunteers that help support the residents of Gilmore Lodge, a long term care facility located in Fort Erie, ON. The Friends of Gilmore Lodge provides funding to help support the costs for the programs department to be able to offer community outings, weekly entertainment and seasonal gifts for the residents.

For more information, please contact Antonietta Todd at antoinietta.todd@niagararegion.ca or (905) 871-6160 ext. 4660

Friends of Lakeshore Catholic High School supports the students at Lakeshore Catholic High School within their clubs and sporting activities.  Our goal is to ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate in the extracurricular programs, have access to high quality equipment and benefit from resources that overall enhance their educational experience. We aim to create a more inclusive and enriching environment where students are able to explore their interests, develop their talents and build valuable skills outside of the classroom.  

For more information please contact Rosalyn Aliberti at rosalynn.aliberti@ncdsb.com or Michelene Piazza at michelene.piazza@ncdsb.com 

Ganawageh Urban Homes Inc., established in December 1984, has been a steadfast provider of affordable housing in the Fort Erie area for over three decades. With a portfolio encompassing more than 96 homes, the organization is dedicated to supporting low to moderate income families and Elders, ensuring they have access to safe and affordable housing options.  Located at 10 Dufferin Street, Fort Erie, Ontario, Ganawageh Urban Homes Inc. operates with the mission of fostering thriving communities by addressing the critical need for housing stability. Prospective tenants can obtain application forms either by emailing a request or by visiting the office during business hours, which are Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closed on weekends). 

For more information, please contact Kelly Kendrick-Collings at (905) 871-5333

At Garrison Road Public School, we believe that parents are important and make a real difference to a child's learning. When parents are involved, children do better and achieve more. Garrison Road School Parent Association allows everyone involved in school life-parents, learners, teachers, school staff and the wider community to work together to support the school.  It also allows all parents to have a say in their children's education by affording the opportunity to express their views and ideas.

For more information please contact https://garrisonroad.dsbn.org/contact.html or call (905) 871-4830

Greater Fort Erie Minor Ball Association is proud to provide a quality baseball/softball program for boys/girls from ages 3-18.  Our program runs from the end of May to mid August.

For more information, please visit https://forterieminorball.com/Contact/

Greater Fort Erie Minor Hockey Association provides a positive minor hockey experience for all members by organizing, coordinating and developing a hockey program for all applicable ages of players of either gender within the community of Fort Erie.  For more information, please contact Melissa Drulia at iceschedulerfe@gmail.com 

For more information visit online https://greaterforterie.dsbn.org/contact-us/contact 

Greater Fort Erie Youth Soccer Club was founded in 1980 and offers youth soccer in the Fort Erie, Ridgeway and Crystal Beach area.  We are a non-profit sports organization, dedicated to developing our athletes of all levels and backgrounds.  Our goal is not only top produce great athletes but to use sport as a vehicle for teaching our athletes important life lessons, and developing values, character and social skills. 

For more information, please visit online at https://www.forteriesoccer.com/

I CAN-T.E.R. 's mission is to create a barrier free setting where individuals can experience the farm for Therapy, Education, and Recreation. I CAN-T.E.R. provides and develops programs for those with a variety of barriers, disabilities and limitations while supporting the friends and families of these individuals. I CAN-T.E.R. is dedicated to providing a healthy environment for personal growth and development.

For more information please visit online at https://www.icanter.ca/contact 

The Knights of Columbus is a fraternal organization dedicated to promoting and conducting educational, charitable, religious and social welfare works.

For more information, please contact Derek_641@outlook.com 

John Brant Public School Parent Teacher Association was formed to benefit the welfare and well being of the students attending John Brant Public School.  The organization provides students with the opportunity to participate in extra curricular activities including sports, clubs, arts and educational speakers and presentations. 

For more information please visit online at https://johnbrant.dsbn.org/contact.html

The Kinette Club of Fort Erie is a dedicated group of volunteers that work to better their communities, enhance the well-being of Canadians and improve the environment through service, leadership, fellowship, and personal development.  

For more information, please contact: forteriekinettes@gmail.com

The Kinsmen Club has been proudly serving the Fort Erie community for 82 years.  They take pride in servicing "The Communities Greatest Needs."

For more information, please contact: lgraber47@gmail.com 

The Navy League of Canada is a non-profit volunteer lead organization that supports youth education and leadership programs as well as promotes the maritime interests of Canada. Active in communities throughout the nation with partners across industry, together we work to support young Canadians via positive citizenship initiatives that reinforce the value of the navy and our service members. In the navy league, we know that everyone can make a difference in building a kinder and stronger world. 

For more information https://navyleague.ca/contact

Victim Services Niagara works alongside Niagara emergency service providers to provide emotional support and practical assistance to victims of crime and tragedy in the Niagara Region. Victim Services Niagara utilizes a team of staff and volunteers to assist individuals in the immediate aftermath of these tragic circumstances, both on-scene and remotely.

For more information, please contact: Sarah McTavish at sarah@victimservicesniagara.on.ca  or (905) 682-2626

Parents for the Performing Arts is a non-profit organization that subsidizes and supports the education and advancement of dancers of Peacock School of Dance through fundraising efforts.

For more information please contact: pgpa4psd@gmail.com

Parents for Victory in Education Association is a group of parents dedicated to enrich the lives of students attending Our Lady of Victory Catholic Elementary School by offering various opportunities that support transportation for class trips and sporting events, technology, extra-curricular activities and educational programs for the entire student body.

For more information visit online at https://schools.niagaracatholic.ca/ourladyofvictory/ 

Peace Bridge Public School Parent Teacher Association is a group of parents dedicated to enrich the lives of students attending the school by offering various opportunities that support clubs and competitions, athletic programs, assemblies, presentations, transportation for trips and sporting events.  

For more information please visit online at https://peacebridge.dsbn.org/contact.html  

Pocomar is a marine search and rescue organization that operates two rescue vessels out of Sugarloaf Marina in Eastern Lake Erie.  The Joint Rescue Co-ordination Center in Trenton Ontario tasks POCOMAR to respond to calls from the Niagara river in Fort Erie to the Grand river in Dunnville, and beyond. POCOMAR is consistently one of the busiest marine search and rescue auxiliary units in all of Central and Arctic Canada. 

For more information please contact Angie Davis at pr@pocomar.org

The Ridgeway Lions Club is committed to raising funds through various events and then channeling 100% of those funds back into the community. By organizing fundraising dinners and special events, the club not only fosters community engagement but also generates vital resources to support local initiatives and individuals in need.

For more information please contact: secretary@ridgewaylionsclub.org

The Rotary Club of Fort Erie along with Rotary Clubs all over the world strive to achieve 7 common goals: To promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water, sanitation and hygiene, saving mothers and children, supporting education, growing local economies and protecting the environment.

For more information please contact: Scott Broda at jsbroda@gmail.com or visit online at https://rotaryforterie.org/about/

Legion Branches are the cornerstone of communities across Canada and provide one of the largest volunteer bases in the country.  With 1,350 Branches from coast to coast, our members provide local services and supports to build a stronger Canada.  Whether helping local Veterans, supporting seniors, providing youth sports programs, raising funds, volunteering to help those in need, or simply offering a place to gather for fun and celebration, Legionnaires provide essential services in their communities.  

For more information please visit online at https://www.facebook.com/FELegion or call (905) 871-8682

Legion Branches are the cornerstone of communities across Canada and provide one of the largest volunteer bases in the country.  With 1,350 branches from coast to coast, our members provide local services and supports to build a stronger Canada.  Whether helping local Veterans, supporting seniors, providing youth sports programs, raising funds, volunteering to help those in need, or simply offering a place to gather for fun and celebrate, Legionnaires provide essential services in their communities.  Branch #230 prides itself on supporting our community of all ages through weekly events through wonderful volunteers who generously give of their time.

For more information please contact Barb Hopkins at canleg230@cogeco.net or call (905) 894-5927

Saint George's Catholic Church provides the opportunity for it's members to worship according to the teachings of the Roman Catholic Faith, and to gather for various activities that provide teaching and social activities for the building up of the faith community.
For more information please visit online at https://sites.google.com/site/stgeorgecrystalbeach/home or call (905) 894-2853

Saint Joseph School Parent Advisory Committee is a group of parents dedicated to enrich the lives of students attending the school by offering various opportunities that support transportation for sporting events and class trips, technology, equipment, and fun family nights and activities for the entire student body and their families. 

For more information please visit online https://schools.niagaracatholic.ca/stjoseph-forterie/ 

Saint Michael's Church provides the opportunity for it's members to worship according to the teachings of the Roman Catholic Faith, and to gather for various activities that provide teaching and social activities for the building up of the faith community.

For more information please visit online at https://stmichaelfe.com/ or call (905) 871-0692

Special Needs Assistance Inc. is an organization that provides emotional and other support and assistance to individuals with mental and physical disabilities and other special needs, within the Town of Fort Erie and surrounding areas. 

For more information please visit online https://www.clfe.ca/

St. George's Catholic Parent Teacher Association is a group of parents dedicated to enrich the lives of students attending the school by offering various opportunities that support transportation for sporting events and class trips, technology, equipment, and fun family nights and activities for the entire student body and their families.

For more information please visit online https://schools.niagaracatholic.ca/st-george/ 

St. Philomena Catholic Parent Teacher Association

St. Philomena Catholic Parent Teacher Association is a group of parents dedicated to enrich the live of students attending the school by offering various opportunities that support transportation for class trips and sporting events, technology, extra-curricular activities and educational programs for the entire student body.

For more information please visit online https://schools.niagaracatholic.ca/stphilomena/ 

Stevensville Kinsmen and Kinettes are a dedicated group of volunteers that work to better their communities, enhance the well-being of Canadians and improve the environment through service, leadership, fellowship, and personal development. 

For more information please contact: Kinsmen - Denis Brunning (905) 382-2910 or Kinettes - Mary Jane Brunning (905) 382-2910 

At Stevensville Public School we believe that parents are important and make a real difference to children's learning. When parents are involved children do better and achieve more. The School Parent Volunteer Organization allows everyone involved in school life - parents, learners, teachers, school staff and the wider community to work together to support the school. It also allows all parents to have a say in their children's education by affording the opportunity to express their views and ideas.

For more information, please visit online https://stevensville.dsbn.org/contact.html or call (905) 382-3122

Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods is a food security community outreach organization providing weekly hot take out meals, monthly personal hygiene products and support with how to be referred to other existing organizations that can help to lower the barriers associated with living with low income, being a newcomer, a disability or the challenges of aging.  

For more information email strongforterieneighbourhoods@gmail.com