Volunteering for environmental and sustainability organizations in Ottawa is not just an act of service; it is a commitment to fostering a greener, healthier future. From urban gardening projects to wildlife conservation efforts, there are countless ways to get involved and make a meaningful impact. Whether you are passionate about combating climate change, reducing waste, or protecting local ecosystems and wildlife, Ottawa's diverse range of volunteer opportunities ensures that you can contribute to a cause closest to your heart.

In this blog, we explore the myriad resources at your disposal to help you get started with volunteering for environmental and sustainability organizations in and around Ottawa. We will highlight key initiatives, share resources, and provide practical tips on how to get started.

Volunteer directories

1. In Your Nature

   Are you spending hours looking through hundreds of intimidating opportunities? Try our matching quiz! It will give you personalized recommendations and go straight to what matters most: getting involved in your community. Explore our directory for impactful environmental initiatives in your community.

2. Volunteer Ottawa

   Volunteer Ottawa connects people to hundreds of local charities, non-profits, and community initiatives that rely on the time and talent of volunteers. Their website offers opportunities for formal and skilled volunteering throughout the greater Ottawa region. Signing up is easy, and you can filter your search to find opportunities that are most relevant to your interests and needs.

   Check out their environmental-themed opportunities here

3. GoodWork

   With over 23 years of experience, GoodWork has a well-known reputation for helping Canada's environmental community prosper. The organization's mission is to help green employers find dedicated staff, management, consultants, board members, interns, and volunteers. Their volunteer page allows visitors to search for and find volunteer work, post volunteer positions, and the latest news and climate action.

   Disclaimer: If you are an organization or individual seeking to post volunteer opportunities, GoodWork will post your volunteer opportunities on a pay-what-you-can scale. Learn more on their posting page here

4. Green Ottawa

   Green Ottawa's website is a treasure trove for all things environmental: If it is green, sustainable, eco-friendly, renewable, etc., you are almost guaranteed to find it here. Should you be on the lookout to volunteer for nature, environment, conservation, and/or sustainability head over to their website now and click on their volunteer page for how to sign up and more information.

5. Volunteer Canada

   Volunteer Canada's mission is to advance volunteerism to grow connection, community and belonging. They are a registered charity offering national guidance on volunteerism to increase participation and improve the quality of volunteer experiences and diversity in Canada.

Strategies for finding the perfect volunteer match

• Make social media your best friend: Follow nonprofit organizations, community groups, charities, influencers, and activists related to your interests. Be sure to also join groups and communities on platforms such as LinkedIn and Facebook groups.
• Network actively: Reach out and message organizations and individuals directly, expressing your interest in volunteering with them. Sign up and attend virtual events and webinars. Non-profit organizations often host these free of charge, and they are a great way of networking and meeting contacts of great value.
• Local community centers and non-profits: Visit local community centers, libraries, and non-profit organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities. These spaces usually have outreach programs that can help match you with opportunities that fit your interests and skills.
• Always look at posters: You know those posters and bulletin boards that you always ignore? Those actually advertise cool events happening around the city. The posters are from active and engaged organizations in the community, which means they might love to have you join their cause!

Use In Your Nature to refine your search

Our mission is simple: we help you streamline the process of finding and engaging with environmental and sustainability-focused organizations through our interactive matching quiz. Here's how it works:

• Take our matching quiz to better understand what type of volunteer you are.
• Follow us on social media platforms: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram.
• Browse the directory of environmental organizations that you can contact.