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ABLE2

Volunteering with ABLE2

In Ottawa, there are more than 160,000 people with disabilities, many of whom experience barriers in their daily activities. Their families also face complex caregiving demands and financial strain. 

When you volunteer with ABLE2, you can have a profound impact on the lives of people with disabilities and their families, and help them overcome the barriers by:

  • Providing people with disabilities opportunities to develop meaningful relationships and build a strong network of support, which will reduce loneliness and isolation, and improve their overall mental and physical well-being,
  • Working towards equality and justice for people with disabilities, enabling a world where every individual is seen as able, important, and valued, 
  • Spreading awareness about disabilities and the relevant issues, reducing stigma and creating a more inclusive and accessible community,
  • Dedicating your time and skills to ABLE2 activities and fundraising initiatives that support programs and services tailored to their unique needs, enabling them to be active members of the community. 

Benefits of volunteering with ABLE2

“It’s been an amazing journey… You might go in thinking that you’re going to help someone, but actually you learn a whole lot more than offering someone else to help. There’s so much more to gain in this program— you have a friend you gain for life.” 

Viji Sundaram, Volunteer for 20 years

Volunteering with ABLE2 gives you an opportunity you to make a long-lasting impact in your community. As an ABLE2 volunteer, you will:

  • Receive training.
  • Receive professional support before and during your volunteering experience.
  • Grow your professional network for reference and career development purposes.
  • Gain an increased appreciation of your own life and feel good knowing that you are supporting someone in your community.
  • Be appreciated and recognized for your valuable impact.
  • Gain improved knowledge of various disability spectrums and their unique abilities.

Volunteer Opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is volunteering at ABLE2 right for me?

Are you inspired to make a positive difference in your community? Do you enjoy helping people? Do you enjoy contributing to a committee? Do you need some community volunteer hours? If you answered yes to any of these questions, ABLE2 has a volunteering opportunity for you!

I am in Canada but not in Ottawa, can I still volunteer?

Yes, the Connect E-Volunteering program provides an opportunity for you to volunteer virtually. 

Will I receive training prior to becoming a volunteer? 

Yes, the ABLE2 team will provide training appropriate to your role and can include Onboarding, Learning Conversation, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) training and event specific training.

I am a new immigrant; can I volunteer at ABLE2?

Yes, you can volunteer at ABLE2 as a new immigrant living in Ottawa/Gatineau. You must be able to receive a vulnerable sector check from Ottawa or Gatineau police.

I am less than 18 years; can I volunteer at ABLE2?

Yes, you can volunteer with ABLE2 in various ways. The only exception is the Matching Program which requires you to be at least 18 years.

ABLE2’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) statement 

At ABLE2, we believe that every individual deserves to be seen, heard and valued. Our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) is at the heart of our mission to serve people with disabilities in our community.

  • Diversity: We celebrate the rich variety of backgrounds, identities, perspectives, and experiences that make up our community. We are committed to fostering an environment where this diversity is not only recognized but embraced as a source of strength and innovation.
  • Equity: We strive to ensure fair access to resources and opportunities for all individuals. We recognize that equity goes beyond equality—it means addressing systemic inequalities and actively working to create conditions where everyone can thrive.
  • Inclusion: We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed, respected and empowered to contribute. Inclusion means actively inviting participation and collaboration from all individuals.
  • Belonging: We aim to build a culture where everyone feels they belong. Belonging is about more than just being included—it’s about feeling connected, supported and valued for who you are. We are committed to nurturing a sense of belonging for all members of our community, ensuring that each person feels a part of something greater.

Our dedication to DEIB is reflected in every aspect of our work, from the services we provide to the way we operate as an organization. We are committed to continuous learning, listening, and evolving in our approach to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. We recognize that this is a never-ending, evolving process, and we pledge to embrace it with integrity, transparency and compassion.

Together, we can create a community where everyone is seen as able, important, valued and empowered to build lives of meaning and joy.

Ready to volunteer and change lives? Email volunteer@able2.org to express your interest in any of the volunteering opportunities.