The City of Brantford, in partnership with the Brant Regional Association of Volunteer Administrators (BRAVA), hosted the Fall Volunteer Fair on Monday evening at the Woodman Park Community Centre, bringing together local residents and organizations seeking to make a difference in the community.
The event, held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., featured more than 25 organizations offering volunteer opportunities across sectors including health, education, social services, and youth programs.
Attendees were invited to explore ways to contribute their time and skills to meaningful local causes.
“The main goal is to allow the community to see the variety of volunteer opportunities that are available all in one place,” said Kari Astles, President of BRAVA.
“We have everything from healthcare and community policing to education and service clubs — organizations that wouldn’t exist without the support of volunteers.”
Astles noted a growing trend among residents seeking more flexible volunteer roles to fit their schedules.
“We’ve noticed an interest in flexible scheduling and different types of opportunities at various times of day,” she said. “It’s important for people to know that volunteering doesn’t have to be a huge commitment — even small efforts can make a big impact.”
Big Brothers Big Sisters: Mentoring the Next Generation
Among the exhibitors was Big Brothers Big Sisters of Grand Erie, which is currently recruiting volunteer mentors for elementary school programs.
“We’re here looking for passionate mentors who want to make a difference,” said Katie Jacobs, Volunteer Engagement and Recruitment Coordinator.
“Anyone who wants to help kids build confidence, self-esteem and positive life skills can apply.”
Jacobs said the organization depends heavily on community participation. “We couldn’t run our programs without volunteers,” she added. “They’re the heart of everything we do.”
Those interested in becoming mentors can visit mentorsforkids.ca to submit an inquiry.
Autism Dog Services: Training Companions for Children in Need
Rachel Antaya, a volunteer puppy raiser with Autism Dog Services, was on hand to recruit new volunteers for their program, which provides service dogs to children with autism across Southern Ontario.
“We typically have 30 to 40 dogs in training at any time,” Antaya explained. “We rely on volunteers to raise, socialize, and transport dogs — everything from puppy raisers and sitters to event helpers.”
The organization, which operates almost entirely through volunteer support, graduates six to eight service dogs each year. “Our goal is to support families by providing well-trained dogs that help meet their children’s unique needs,” she said.
More information is available at autismdogservices.ca.
Scouts Canada: A Call for Adult Leaders
Representing Scouts Canada, Dave Malcolm, Group Commissioner for the 5th Brantford County Scouts, emphasized the urgent need for adult volunteers.
“We can get kids all day long — but we don’t have enough adults to run the programs,” said Malcolm.
“Scouting is all about teaching young people to be good citizens through outdoor and community activities, but to keep these programs running, we need more adult scouters.”
Malcolm said Brantford currently has three scout groups, with each group serving between 40 and 60 youth.
“It’s about giving an hour a week — or as much as you can,” he added. “The more adults we have, the more kids we can include.”
Those interested can learn more or register at scouts.ca.
The fair drew steady participation from residents throughout the evening, reinforcing the city’s ongoing effort to foster civic engagement and community connection.
“Events like this remind us that volunteering strengthens Brantford,” Astles said.
“It helps provide services that care for our community in so many different ways.”
Residents interested in local volunteer opportunities can contact BRAVA at bravabrant@gmail.com or 519-759-4150 ext. 5070 for more information.
