The Giver is written by Ottawa Mag account manager Dee Campbell, who knows that people prefer to volunteer in ways that speak to their interests. Dee has volunteered for the Terry Fox Run since she was a little girl and is a Brownie Leader of 15 years.  

DO YOU LIKE TO SWEAT?
At first glance, this event looked like every other run/walk for [enter worthy disease/condition] research — but since three of the volunteer positions entertained me, it makes the list. The Scotiabank Nordic Walk for Cancer Survivorship needs people to … wait for it … sweat check.  Ewww.  No wonder this position is still open. They also, however, need people in the pumpkin area and a face painter (as well as many other gigs).  Okay, that’s more my bag. Contact: vered@ottawacancer.ca

TIME IS MONEY
Throughout the Timeraiser event on the evening of November 8, you’ll meet with a bunch of non-profit organizations to find a volunteer opp that meets your needs/passion. (Yes, it’s kinda like speed-dating.) Then the art auction begins, but instead of bidding money you bid volunteers hours. (And the artist even gets paid!) Since 2003, Timeraiser has generated over 100,000 volunteer hours and supported over 400 charities in need of personnel.  It’s very cool — just like this vid that explains it all.

BACK TO SCHOOL:  FITNESS & LITERACY FOR KIDS

Two hours per week from October to June, you will engage children in rigorous physical activity, assist with reading, and then provide a healthy snack.  The Start2Finish Running & Reading Club is an afterschool program for communities that see high levels of transiency, poverty, illiteracy, poor physical fitness, and substance abuse. They need a Steering Committee member to launch a third club in Ottawa. This feel-good gig offers physical and brain stimulation, experience with healthy food, plus lots of kiddie giggles.