At the heart of this program are the volunteers, without whom it would not be possible to operate. They perform a much needed service to the participants, and the community at large is a better place because of it.  They enrich the lives of participants by enabling greater independence and participation in a variety of events both within Hope and in other communities.

What Is A Volunteer?

• A volunteer is an individual who is an essential member of the team, whose opinions and suggestions on program quality improvement are encouraged and valued.
• A volunteer is an individual who works in a recognized position without financial compensation from CARE Transit.
• A volunteer is an individual who contributes services to CARE Transit and/or its clients and is supervised by an assigned program coordinator.
• A volunteer is an individual who enables the agency’s program of services.

The CARE Transit program should not be considered as a situation involving paying passengers, nor will any payment to volunteers be given, other than reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses for mileage and parking fees. Drivers will be given a variety of assignments that will include both local and regional areas.

All clients will be registered in the program through a referral system and all rides are booked through the program office. Clients and drivers will be “matched up” with the aid of a software program specifically designed for the program.

Guiding Principles for Volunteer Involvement

We recognize that volunteers are the vital human resource in this organization and contribute to independence and enhance the quality of life of those they serve. Our practices will ensure effective volunteer involvement and we commit to providing a safe and supportive environment for our volunteers.

Volunteers make a commitment and are accountable to the organization. They are to act with respect for beneficiaries and the community. They will always act with fairness, honesty, integrity, kindness and openness; respect the opinions of others and treat all with equality and dignity without regard to gender, race, colour, creed, ancestry, place of origin, political beliefs, religion, marital status, disability, age, or sexual orientation.

Core Qualifications for volunteers

In keeping with our standards we have developed a set of core qualifications for our volunteers, which are listed below.

• Relates well to seniors and youth
• Patient, empathetic, good listener
• Enjoys driving and spending time with seniors, youth or people with special needs
• Would not be a known risk to vulnerable riders in an isolated setting
• Punctual and reliable
• Willing to escort door to door and to assist clients as needed within the boundaries of the position
• Knowledge of driving area, able to navigate to locations
• A valid B.C. Driver’s License
• A safe driving record for 5 years
• Access to a vehicle that is roadworthy, reliable and suitable for client needs
• No health conditions that may impair ability to drive safely (vision, hearing, perception, reflexes)
• Good judgment; able to gauge client and driving conditions
• Physically able to offer support to frail clients

Join our volunteer team

If you are interested in joining our volunteer team

please contact us via email or by phone at 604 869 3396 any time.

The application form can be downloaded here, or pick up a copy from our office.