National Volunteer Week 2026
National Volunteer Week (April 19–25, 2026) is a time to recognize, celebrate, and thank the individuals who generously give their time and talents to strengthen our communities.
Volunteer Canada Learn more
Visit Volunteer Canada to learn more about National Volunteer Week!
Thank a Volunteer! Learn more
Say thank you to our volunteers with an e‑card! A quick note can go a long way—share your appreciation, highlight a moment that made a difference, or simply say thanks for their time and dedication. Your message helps recognize the care and effort they bring to supporting our people every day.
Employee Volunteer Committees
We connect people who want to strengthen McMaster’s community together.
We are committed to creating and linking McMaster employees to meaningful volunteer opportunities which allows for personal and professional development, provides networking and collaborative opportunities across the University, mobilizes and supports community-driven change, and builds partnerships with the greater community.
Interested in Volunteering? Apply Today!
Please fill out our online application to apply to volunteer for the following committees:
- Healthy Workplace
- Inspiring from Within
- McMaster Children’s Party
- McMaster’s United Way Campaign
Committee Operations start in Spring 2026. Apply today!
Information on these volunteer committees can be found by clicking the appropriate box below. Volunteers will be encouraged to think creatively to create memorable and engaging experiences for McMaster employees.
Applicants requiring an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process should contact the Program Coordinator to communicate their needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thank you for your interest in volunteering! We’re excited that you’re considering joining us to make a positive impact. This section is designed to answer the most common questions prospective volunteers have. Our goal is to make your volunteer journey clear, simple, and inspiring. If you have a question that isn’t covered here, we’re always happy to help—please contact us.
Q: What is the minimum term for a committee volunteer position?
A: There is a minimum of 1-year commitment for volunteer positions. Please review the specific committee’s terms of reference for more information.
Q: What is the time commitment for a volunteer position per week?
A: Volunteer opportunities require a commitment of 1-2 hours per week. Hours may increase closer to the established event.
Q: When do volunteer operations begin?
A: Volunteer operations will begin in Spring 2026!
Q: How often do committees meet?
A: Healthy Workplace, United Way, and the McMaster Children’s Party Committees meet bi-weekly for 50 minutes. The Inspiring from Within Committee varies based on upcoming events and project timelines.
Q: How do committees meet?
A: All committees meet virtually on Microsoft Teams. There are also opportunities throughout the year for in-person engagement opportunities!
Q: What happens if I need to step back temporarily?
A: If you need to step back temporarily, please reach out to your Committee Chair or Facilitator.
Q: Are accommodations available?
A: Applicants requiring an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process should contact the Program Coordinator to communicate their needs.
What are the benefits of volunteering?
Volunteering at McMaster offers employees a meaningful way to grow professionally, connect socially, and contribute to the campus community. It provides opportunities to develop new skills—such as project management, public speaking, ot leadership—while learning from colleagues with diverse backgrounds, gaining transferable abilities that can support your role at McMaster. Volunteering also promotes social well‑being by creating moments of connection. It’s a great way to expand your McMaster network and gain fresh perspectives that can benefit you and your team. Most of all, volunteering offers a strong sense of purpose by allowing you to bring creative ideas to life, collaborate toward shared goals, and make a positive impact on the McMaster community. Learn more below!
Professional and Skills Development
Want to improve your project managements skills or get better at public speaking? Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn about social media or develop your leadership skills. When volunteering, there are many different opportunities for skill building. Take the time to meet new people and learn about their backgrounds and skills sets. Ask questions in the process and add some new skills to your toolbox. Not only that, but there are also transferable skills you can bring with you to job at McMaster.
Promoting Social Well-Being
There are many benefits of incorporating social engagements into your day-to-day life. Even when distancing is required, social interaction promotes strong psychological wellness. Interacting with others can help boost your productivity and decrease feelings of isolation. Research has shown that building social interactions can help boost your mood. This can be especially relevant in today’s climate where social distancing is imperative.
Building Your McMaster Network
Volunteering on an employee committee is a great way to learn more about the university and meet people you may not meet otherwise. There are so many different skill sets and perspectives you can tap into when you work with others outside your own department. This can lead to learning new skills or ideas that may benefit you and your team at work.
A Sense of Purpose
What’s more rewarding than seeing a project from the brainstorming phase to a finished product? Volunteering is a great way to work as a team to define and reach goals together. Most people want to volunteer to improve situations, present new ideas or help people. Being part of a volunteer committee allows you a chance to express all your ideas. You have an opportunity to get creative, and all of your hard work benefits the McMaster community.
Information Box Group
If you have any questions about volunteering please contact:
Karli Dillane-Bedford
Coordinator, Workplace Health & Well-being Strategies
