Ignite is a unique social enterprise that uses an entrepreneurial business approach to solve social issues inherent in at-risk young adults. To be successful, Ignite relies on the assistance of more than 75 volunteers each year. Through the collaboration of the Ignite Team members and our many volunteers, our community is made stronger.
Why Volunteer?
Ignite benefits greatly from the support of volunteers in a variety of areas. Volunteers help raise funds, coordinate special events, participate on subcommittees, and support the work of Ignite with their knowledge and expertise.
There are many incredible benefits for those who volunteer, including
- making a difference in someone’s life
- giving back to the community
- contributing to a cause that may have personal significance
- learning a new skill or sharing existing skills
- meeting new people
- being part of a team
- having fun
How to Volunteer
While the time commitments and experience requirements vary according to each volunteer opportunity, all volunteers must be at least 18 years of age, submit a Volunteer Application form, complete a Criminal Record Check, participate in a screening interview with a member of the Ignite Team, read the Volunteer Handbook, and attend the Ignite Volunteer Orientation program prior to volunteering.
Volunteer Opportunities
>>Become a Mentor
The purpose of the mentorship program at Ignite is to provide an avenue for apprentices to meet people from the business community who can give them advice about job markets, labour trends, and competitive work skills and habits.
Eighteen mentors are needed for each Ignite program cycle and are generally matched with apprentices according to gender.
Time Required
- commit to 9-month mentorship
- attend introductory mentorship session (1.5 hours)
- participate in minimum of one monthly meeting/activity with mentee outside of working hours and away from the Ignite facility
Experience Needed
- minimal
>>Tutor an Apprentice
Tutoring requirements vary from program cycle to program cycle. Apprentices work toward achieving their General Equivalency Diploma (GED), however, some apprentices strive to write departmental exams (i.e., Math, English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics).
Time Required
- commit to a 9-month tutoring schedule
- provide 2 to 6 hours of tutoring each week
- be available to work on-site at the Ignite Facility during the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday
Experience Needed
- knowledge in required subject areas
- confidence in ability to teach
>>Teach a Driving Course
Ignite hires driving instructors to provide classroom training as well as in-car training to enable apprentices to obtain a Learner’s licence and a Class 5 licence.
Learner’s licence – SGI provides an analysis for each apprentice of Ignite. Once that is determined, a volunteer instructor is needed to secure and organize documents, schedule the Learner’s licence tests, and transport each apprentice to his/her test.
Class 5 licence – Additional in-car practice time is needed beyond the driver instructor’s requirement of 6 hours. A volunteer instructor is needed to assist with the in-car driving practice, prepare the necessary documents, schedule the Class 5 driving exam, and transport each apprentice to his/her exam.
Time Required
- varies based on individual apprentice needs but tends to be a specific segment of time for obtaining Learner’s licences and a separate segment of time for obtaining Class 5 licences
- working on the Learner’s licence takes place between 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday
- driving practices take place over the lunch hour or after 4:30 p.m.
Experience Needed
- valid Class 5 licence
- confidence in ability to instruct
Additional Requirements
- clean driving record
- must have own car and be willing to provide the use of it for driving practices
>>Be a Guest Speaker
Throughout each program cycle, guest speakers are needed to present information in the following areas:
- Careers
- Employment Preparation
- Human Resource Competencies
- Goal Setting
- Lifestyle Choices
- Parenting
- Work/Life Balance
Ignite is also interested in engaging in employer facilitated tours as they apply to the areas listed above.
Time Required
- one hour
Experience Needed
- knowledge in one of the areas listed above
>>Take Part in Special Events
Volunteers are needed to work as members of committees and to organize and run special events throughout the year. Events include:
- Graduation (2 per year)
- Major Investor Recognition Luncheon (annual)
- Mercedes-Benz Ignite Masters Golf Tournament (annual)
Time Required
- varies for each event
Experience Needed
- ability to organize and implement plans within a committee of volunteers
- ability to meet deadlines
Need More Information?
Additional information may be found by contacting Ignite.