Volunteering Can Help Your Job Search

Many job seekers who have been out of the work force for some time feel hesitant about jumping back in.  Getting back in the work force can feel like a daunting task for many reasons – my skills are outdated, my contacts and references have retired or moved, I’m nervous about starting work again…  Whatever your reason is for returning to work, keep in mind that volunteering is a great way for you to build your skills, confidence, and provide you with references for your resume before taking the plunge back into the employment pool.

Did you know that volunteering has been proven to reduce stress, combat depression and leads to a greater sense of self-worth?  Volunteers often learn new skills that they may not have otherwise tried and make long lasting social connections with people who share common interests.

April 14-20 is National Volunteer Week and if you are feeling that desire to make a difference in a volunteering capacity, there are many organizations in the Oceanside area who could benefit from your energy and enthusiasm.

The Society of Organized Services is always in search of volunteers to help with the large number of programs that they offer the residents of Oceanside.

The local Salvation Army has numerous volunteer opportunities that you can explore on their website.

The Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce has a number of volunteering opportunities listed on their site for different community organizations.

Island Health is always looking for volunteers to support their patients, residents, clients, visitors and staff.

The local SPCA currently has 6 different volunteer opportunities.

Here are a few other opportunities for volunteering in the area:

Parksville Community Centre
Oceanside Building Learning Together (OBLT)
The Tutoring Program (Career Centre)
Inclusion Parksville
Oceanside Community Safety
Haven Society

Volunteering truly is a rewarding way to give back to your community while gaining valuable experience and references at the same time! 

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
– Winston Churchill

Tell us about your business/organization and what makes you stand out as an employer?

SOS is an award-winning, charitable organization that has been meeting the needs and improving the lives of residents in the Parksville Qualicum Beach region since 1968. We value each member of our team and what they bring to our organization. Our staff are passionate about their work and together we strive to maintain a positive, supportive, and respectful work environment.

How many employees do you have?
60

What do you look for in a new employee?
We are looking for enthusiastic individuals who want to make a positive impact in our community. If you are ambitious, value professional growth and work well in a team environment, we’d love to meet you!

What advice would you give someone who wants to work for your organization?
Show us your excitement about the opportunity to be an active participant in this important community organization.

Do you anticipate hiring in the next 6 months? If so, for what types of positions?
Yes, there are opportunities in our administration office coordinating and assisting with programs, and in our Thrift Shop there are shipper/receiver as well as merchandiser positions.

What is the best way for someone to apply if they are interested in working for your business?
Visit our website for job listings and instructions on how to apply www.sosd69.com.