Volunteer Fairs

Next volunteer fair

McGill Volunteer Fair - Winter 2009

• Information about this next Fair will be posted on our WebSite as soon as we can.

What is a volunteer fair?

Volunteer fairs are public events featuring from 15 to 50 kiosks representing community organizations seeking volunteers. Regardless of the number, we make sure that several different types of volunteering are represented.

People who want to find out more about volunteering, or who are interested in becoming volunteers, can visit the different kiosks and talk to representatives of the recruiting organizations. It's a good way to learn more about the organizations that interest you, what services they offer and the kind of volunteers they are looking for.

Please note that there is a registration fee of $10.00.

Tricks to successfully man a kiosk

Stand up!
Getting up and staying up is one of the best ways to get someone's attention. Manning a kiosk does not oblige you to sit with your arms crossed! Never hesitate to get up and walk around your kiosk. To prevent any temptation, take your chair away!

Smile!
A smile goes a long way! By smiling to passers-by, you're sending them the message that you are available to talk. In doing so, you will encourage the more reserved people to come forward, and brighten up all the others!

Dress up your kiosk!
As interesting as you might be, you should always have plenty of material at hand! People are in a hurry, and will often grab leaflets to read at leisure.

Don't neglect your background!
There's often a billboard or other space available to display information. Don't underestimate the impact of a well-decorated board! If you have enough posters, fill it up. You will be that much more visible.

Appeal to your audience!
We rarely think about it, but it's necessary to adapt a kiosk, according to its location and intended audience. Students may be particularly fond of stickers and pins, while older adults may prefer seeing photos showing concrete examples of results.

Plan your strategy!
Planning a kiosk calls for strategy. Initiate contact with a quick survey, a surprise question. Distribute leaflets. Any strategy is good to get noticed. But make sure you respect the rules of the partners that welcome you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who comes to the fairs?
Most visitors to the fairs are people who want to find out more about volunteering with an organization. Some sign up on the spot, while others collect fliers to help them make up their minds later.

At a volunteer fair, you'll be surrounded by people like yourself who are looking for a stimulating activity that will also benefit the community!

What kind of organizations are represented at the fairs?
You'll find organizations at work in many fields: services for seniors, children, hospitals, literacy groups, residences, shelters and many others. For more information on the different sectors of activity available, please consult our Volunteer Guide. To obtain a copy of the guide, call 514.842.3351.

What are the advantages for people trying to decide what they want to do?
It's the perfect opportunity to shop around and find the type of work and the type of organization that suit your skills and your schedule.

Need more information?
Call Dominique Arsenault at 514.842.3351.