50 ways to make a difference — and gain valuable skills
If you want to get more involved in your community, complement your CV, and support a cause near and dear to you, the Concordia Volunteer Fair is a good place to start looking for opportunities.
Taking place on Thursday, October 6, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Engineering, Computer Science and Visual Arts Integrated Complex (EV Building) Atrium — the event gives students the chance to meet with representatives from more than 50 community organizations that offer chances to get involved at Concordia, in Montreal and abroad.
“Most people who first start exploring are surprised at the variety available,” says Valerie Millette, coordinator at Concordia’s LIVE Centre, the campus–community liaison service that puts on the fair.
“The participating organizations provide a great sample, both in terms of the causes they support and the tasks they undertake.”
From the Girl Guides to Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics to Alternative Spring Break there are many worthy groups to choose from. See the complete list of participating organizations.
Last year, Ankitha Merugu, a graduate student in quality systems engineering, attended the LIVE Centre’s strategic volunteering workshop after visiting the fair, and found a position with the Concordia University Student Parents Centre (CUSP).
"I was new to Montreal when I volunteered. Now I have very good friends there,” she says.
“I later received a reference letter from the CUSP coordinator to apply for volunteer opportunities outside Concordia as well.”
‘An undeniable asset’
The fair is open to everyone — students, staff and the general public. Visitors are encouraged to talk with recruiters from organizations that interest them in order to find the right match in terms of interests, goals and schedule.
Millette says the students she’s talked to have experienced many benefits from volunteering. Beyond propelling a cause you care about, it’s also a great way to explore career options, gain experience, network, develop interpersonal and work-related skills, get empowered and meet new friends.
“Volunteering is an undeniable asset when looking for a job in any field of work, as it helps develop transferable skills,” she says. “It provides students with great examples to demonstrate to a future employer the contributions they can make to their organization.”
Can’t make it to the fair? Drop in to LIVE’s Volunteer Resource Centre. Ambassadors will help you find an experience to develop your skills, connect with new people and make a difference.
“Volunteer for a cause that interests you,” recommends Merugu. “It will keep you motivated and add a lot to your personal development.”
Check out the full list of organizations attending this year's Concordia Volunteer Fair on Thursday, October 6, from 10 a.m to 3 p.m. in the Engineering, Computer Science and Visual Arts Integrated Complex (EV Building) Atrium.
