Question 1

How do I apply?

Accepted Answer

Click any of the "Sign Up Now" buttons on this page, complete the intake form, and a youth advisor will help match you with a placement.

Question 2

Do I need prior experience?

Accepted Answer

No, the program is open to all youth, regardless of experience.

Question 3

What types of volunteer opportunities are available?

Accepted Answer

Opportunities include event assistance, teaching assistance, photography, museum/library support, tech support, sustainability initiatives, customer service, and more.

Question 4

Can I volunteer remotely?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Many opportunities are available remotely across Canada.

Question 5

Will I receive training?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Volunteers get mentorship, workshops, and skill development plans (SDPs) tailored to their growth.

Question 6

What do I gain from this program?

Accepted Answer

A certificate upon completion.
Networking opportunities with professionals and organizations.
Transferable skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving!

Question 7

Are there networking opportunities?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We host monthly networking events (Click here for details) and an annual Youth Conference & Volunteer Fair.

Question 8

What are the qualifications and requirements for volunteers?

Accepted Answer

You must be 12 years-old or older to join our virtual volunteer program; 14 or older for our in-person opportunities. You must have a Canadian address to sign up for the program, and must have access to a computer and the internet.

You should be passionate about education, and enthusiastic and ready to learn. You must be able to commit to a minimum of 10 hours per month in the volunteer program. For in-person recurring events, you must not fail to show up without prior notice more than once; otherwise, your registration will be withdrawn.

Question 9

Can volunteer hours from DRES be used towards fulfilling community involvement hour requirements for high school graduation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, DRES volunteering hours can be counted towards OSSD community hours.

Question 10

How will I get my volunteer hours?

Accepted Answer

When your volunteer period has ended, send us the record form from your school or school guidance to have it signed off via volunteer@yorkeducation.ca. Please fill in as many blanks as you can before sending it across.

Question 11

What counts towards my hours?

Accepted Answer

Only community activity hours at PRES or other non-for-profit organizations can be counted to the OSSD requirement*

At YRES, any training, meetings, lessons and activities you participate in will count towards your hours!

*OSSD volunteer hour eligibility may differ

Question 12

Do I need to do both in-person and the virtual volunteering to join the team?

Accepted Answer

No, you don't. You have the option of signing up for in-person, virtual, or hybrid, in the sign up form.

Question 13

Am I confirmed for a shift after signing up and providing my availability?

Accepted Answer

No, there is a volunteer selection process that takes place after the response window closes. We take your availability into consideration and send a confirmation email to selected volunteers closer to the date of the event.

Question 14

Can I volunteer if I am an international high-school or university student currently studying in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are welcome to join our volunteering opportunities so long as you are currently residing in Canada for the duration of your volunteer commitment.

Question 15

How can I get in touch for more questions?

Accepted Answer

You can reach us in the following ways:
Email: Send us an email at volunteer@yorkeducation.ca
Phone: Call us at  (416) 475-6622 
Social Media: You can also check for updates through our parent organization's (YRES) social media page on Instagram

Question 16

How many free programs can I sign up for?

Accepted Answer

You can sign up for as many programs as you wish, as long as you can commit to attending the program. They will be free.

Question 17

What are the costs?

Accepted Answer

All programs are free (zero-cost) at Durham Region Educational Services. If you need private tutoring and special support, please contact us and we will discuss learning plans tailored to your needs.

Question 18

I am not sure which program fits my needs.  Can I talk to an advisor?

Accepted Answer

Our advisor is available to reply by emails (info@yorkeducation.ca). Please expect 1-2 business days for a reply due to high volume. Your patience is appreciated.

Question 19

Can I participate in programs if I live outside of the Durham Region?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to participate in any of the programs listed on our site, even if you live outside of the Durham Region.

Frequently asked questions