Become a Volunteer at MCAF and
Make a Difference
Questions? Please contact us:
The Community Connections Program matches volunteers with newcomers in our settlement program. When you become a volunteer at MCAF you help newcomers settle into our community. Volunteers tell us their experiences are not only personally rewarding, but they also develop valuable friendships, while learning about cultures, traditions, and customs.
Volunteer Application Checklist:
- Updated resume including volunteer experience and 3 professional references.
- You must provide us with a Criminal and Vulnerable Sector Record Check. If a support letter is requested by the police or RCMP, we will provide one for you. Once the background check has been verified by your local police detachment, please upload it to your volunteer application.
Who can become a volunteer?
Volunteers may be new to Canada themselves, long-term residents, or Canadian citizens.
What can a volunteer do at MCAF?
First Fredericton Friends provide newcomers with friendship, support and links to community resources and services. Volunteers in this program are encouraged to attend a volunteer training session, and then matched with a compatible (individual or family) newcomer. Matches are based on factors such as similar interests, family size, age, occupation, etc.
Volunteers help newcomers get used to living in Canada in many ways including:
- Offering social support and introduction to the community
- Introducing their newcomer friend to places and people in the community (markets, grocery stores, community events/activities, parks, etc.)
- Practice conversation in English
- Sharing and learning about each other’s traditions and customs
- Exchanging ideas, information and resources
English tutors meet weekly with newcomer participants (one-on-one) or in small conversation groups. Tutors provide extra help or an opportunity for newcomers to practice their English. Volunteers develop their teaching skills and learn more about other cultures.
Special Event Volunteers learn about new cultures and make new friends while helping to organize and support community events.
Newcomer youth are encouraged to volunteer in our Summer Youth Program, which is an excellent way to build their resume.
What happens after I get accepted?
All applicants will receive an orientation package and additional training as needed.
Volunteer brochure: