Volunteer

Your time, talent and commitment mean so much

Our community of volunteers show their commitment by supporting Second Harvest’s food rescue efforts. Our volunteers share their time, talent, and experience to make a difference. Join one of the most exciting and rewarding volunteer programs in Canada!

Important updates

COVID-19 response to volunteering at Second Harvest  Second Harvest has taken measures to ensure the health and safety of our employees, volunteers, guests, and community partners.  Due to COVID-19 and public health guidance about physical distancing, we have a limited number of in-person volunteer opportunities available. Volunteer applications are still being accepted and you will be notified when new volunteer opportunities become available. Volunteer vaccine policy At Second Harvest, the health and safety of our communities, supporters and overall workplace are of paramount importance. Considering the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and as part of our continued efforts to maintain a safe workplace for our employees and partners, Second Harvest now requires that all employees and volunteers who attend the workplace or other onsite locations to be fully vaccinated with a COVID- 19 vaccine approved by Health Canada.  Volunteers who do not wish to be vaccinated, are medically ineligible to be vaccinated and/or have chosen not to be vaccinated due to religious beliefs can still volunteer with Second Harvest in a virtual capacity.  Virtual volunteer opportunities are offered to all volunteers regardless of vaccine status and are subject to availability, based on organizational needs.  In addition to our Vaccination Policy provided during onboarding, volunteers must comply with all Second Harvest health and safety protocols while performing volunteer duties and representing our organization.  Additional health and safety measures include: 

• Properly wear a mask/face covering 
• Practice physical distancing 
• Submit an electronic COVID-19 screening questionnaire prior to each volunteer shift 
• Participate in contact tracing by signing in/out when on Second Harvest property and at event locations when necessary 
• Do not volunteer if you have COVID-19 symptoms, been in contact with some who has COVID-19 or travelled without observing a quarantine period, if required by the Government of Canada 

Instructions on how to confirm you vaccination status and our health and safety protocols will be provided to volunteers upon booking. 

We couldn’t accomplish all that we have without volunteers

Second Harvest is grateful for every volunteer who lends their support and shares our vision of ‘No Waste. No Hunger.’  We recognize volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their commitment and service to Second Harvest.   

Outstanding Achievement Awards 

Outstanding Achievement Awards recognize the dedication of an individual or group who go above and beyond in their volunteer role(s), demonstrate commitment, and support the work of Second Harvest.  

Past recipients: Gaurav Bansal, Josh Jensen, Reanna Maharaj, Kathryn Ellis, Karen Hardy, Ken Nakamura, Pamela Neblett, Yan Moore, Deborah Mitchell, Victoria Genge-Narain, Gabrielle Cotton, Judy Nusinowitz, David Kopel, Susan Wetmore, Amanda Chung, Chiara Switzer, June MacDonald, Wendy Job, Ravi Nagraj, Antonette Wright, Maria Park, Pina Di Leo, William Leung, Elliot Steele, Alexander Radovac.  

Corporate Volunteerism Award 

This annual award recognizes a corporation or business partner that has provided exceptional and ongoing volunteer service to Second Harvest. They have embraced our mission and become a pillar of support to our organization.  

Past recipients: Weston Foods, TD Bank  

Mike Kic Spirit Award 

Mike Kic was a dear friend of Second Harvest whose willingness to serve and his commitment to our mission knew no bounds. No task was beneath him, no time was too early or too late, and no request for support was too much.  This annual award is presented to the volunteer who strongly supports our events and food/fundraising initiatives, in roles such as committee membership or event volunteers.  

Past recipients: Tamara Ramsey, Hyame Fadel-Jardine, Emily MacLellan, Andrew Patton, Mike Kic  

The Ian Lawson Van Toch Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award 

During his time with Second Harvest, Ian demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to community service. This award is presented, as warranted, to an exceptional young person or group, under the age of 21, who embodies a spirit of passion and initiative in their work with the community and Second Harvest.  

Past recipients: Voice Integrative School, Carter Ward, The Giles School, Sami Mendes, Arrabon House, Oliver Segal, Jake Grevier, Sarah Siddiqi