Celebrating the power of volunteers

Volunteers shape and build community to transform our world for the better.  

Did you know that the United Nations has named 2026 the International Volunteer Year in recognition of how volunteers support sustainable development? It’s a global call to action to celebrate the ways in which people generously give their time, care, and energy to strengthen their communities. With National Volunteer Week coming up, April 19 – 25, 2026, it’s a great time to appreciate all volunteers who help make Kitchener a welcoming and vibrant place to live. 

Volunteers create positive change. They strengthen our city, support neighbours, and help build inclusive communities through shared action. Sometimes we might only think of volunteering in terms of a formal role like assisting with an event, supporting a program at a community centre, or just earning high school volunteer hours. (Check out current opportunities here and sign up to be notified of future volunteer positions like this.) 

But volunteering is so much more and is constantly evolving. It happens every moment of every day, in ways small to large, formal or informal, and all meaningful. Volunteering is for everyone and everyone benefits from the efforts of volunteers. 

Through LoveMyHood Matching Grants, Kitchener residents turn an idea into action to make their neighbourhood great. These resident led projects rely on dedicated people who volunteer to plant gardens, host community gatherings, and make shared public spaces more enjoyable and accessible. Every action, no matter how small, adds up to a stronger, healthier, and more connected neighbourhood for all. 

Volunteerism is the essential yet sometimes-invisible glue that holds communities together. It’s the neighbour who shovels your sidewalk after a big storm, the group of friends cleaning up a local park, the resident who is always there to welcome a new family on the street, or the students who show up to help bring a neighbourhood idea to life. All of this is volunteering, and when we give together, we build together. 

We are deeply grateful to the thousands of volunteers who help foster sustainable development and strengthen community ties in Kitchener. Your generosity, care, and commitment make our city a better place for everyone. Thank you for everything that you do! 

If you’re looking for inspiration on how to get involved, take a look at some ideas here and contact us at volunteer@kitchener.ca or call 519-741-2663 to get started.