Become an ICA Volunteer
As an ICA volunteer, you’ll have an opportunity to connect with people from around the world, support their learning and be a vital part of them achieving their goals.
ICA volunteers provide essential support to help welcome newcomers and build a respectful and inclusive community. We are very grateful to our nearly 200 dedicated volunteers who make a difference in the lives of refugees, immigrants and newcomers each and every day!
As a volunteer, you will be able to
- Engage in cross-cultural interaction and make cross-cultural connections
- Gain valuable skills, and make a positive difference
- Understand the challenges and needs of newcomer immigrants
- Be part of a culturally welcoming environment that celebrates diversity
- Be part of a talented and supportive team of volunteers and ICA staff
- Make a difference in the lives of newcomers in the Greater Victoria community
Ways To Give
Your tax-deductible donation helps ICA welcome, support and provide much-needed services for immigrants and refugees as they settle into the community. There are many ways to give a gift that has a direct, positive impact on the lives of newcomers. Donate or volunteer today!
Contact Us
Jennifer King, Coordinator of Volunteer Services
Email: jking@icavictoria.org
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I apply for a volunteer position?
A: There are four main steps:
- Complete the online application by clicking on this link: https://bit.ly/ICAVolunteerApplication
- When volunteer positions become available, the volunteer coordinator will contact you by email to check your availability. If you are available, they will then schedule an interview with you via Zoom or in person.
- Complete a Criminal Record Check – this process is facilitated through our office.
- Attend a Volunteer Orientation.
Q: What volunteering positions are currently available?
A: All of our current available volunteer opportunities and the descriptions for each position are listed below. The list will be updated periodically. However, the number of volunteers needed, starting dates and times may vary.
Q: How long does the application process take?
A: The application process from start to finish takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks, including the criminal record check process, which is conducted through the Ministry of Public Safety.
Q: How soon can I start volunteering?
A: Once you are contacted by the volunteer coordinator for an interview and Criminal Record Check is completed, the application process is complete. Your email will be added to the current active volunteer emailing list. A seasonal newsletter will be sent to you periodically; Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer, with all of the available positions for that term.
Q: If the position I want to apply for is not available, can I be considered for other roles?
A: Yes. When you reply to the newsletter, please indicate all the positions you are interested in. The coordinator will explore various position options with you. Our aim is to find the right role and the right fit for you.
Q: Is there a commitment for a length of volunteering time?
A: Once a position is assigned, we hope that you can commit to minimum of three months before changing or withdrawing from this position.
Q: Is training provided for volunteer roles?
A: We do our best to match your skills and interests with volunteer positions. While we do not usually provide training, we offer new volunteer orientation, which gives an overview of ICA’s programs and services, information about what to expect in your role, and essential policies and procedures. We also provide volunteer connections where there will be fun activities, guest speakers, various discussion topics, communication, and feedback for peer support.
Q: What type of references are required?
A: Professional references are preferred. These include employment, volunteer, academic, and professional associations.
Immigrant Welcome Centre
From housing and education to employment services, ICA’s Settlement Services team can help newcomers navigate and connect with important resources and support.
Learn English (LINC)
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) provides English language training from beginner to advanced levels for adult newcomers to Canada. LINC is funded by the Government of Canada and is FREE for eligible students.
About ICA
The purpose of the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA) is to support the full integration of newcomer immigrants and refugees into the social, economic and civic life of the Capital Region of British Columbia.