notice

For content relevant to your community in Ontario, Please select your region

Volunteer opportunities

CNIB Ambassador

Location details: Community Location

We get requests for Ambassadors throughout the region. Geography and travel are considerations when assigning Ambassadors to presentations. You will have all the information about the location and travel arrangements before you decide whether to accept or decline an assignment. Locations can include locations such as elementary and high school classrooms, office environments, boardrooms, hotel ballrooms, and aggregate settings.

Ideal for: Individual, Youth

Objective:

Ambassadors are empowered to put our cause and our clients in the spotlight by giving presentations on the needs, experiences and issues faced by people who are blind or partially sighted, as well as staffing info tables at community events.

From classrooms to health fairs or corporate lunch and learns, CNIB Ambassador's volunteer their time and talent to help educate the public about blindness. Structured Ambassador presentations cover topics like blindness etiquette, accessibility and inclusion, white canes and guide dogs, braille, assistive technologies, CNIB programs, as well as dispelling common myths and misconceptions. 

Responsibilities & Tasks:  An ambassador presentation in a school. Two Ambassadors sit in front of a classroom of young children.

  • Receive bookings for presentations and info tables. Confirm booking with host and finalize travel arrangements.
  • Confirm speaker’s kit is stocked; arrange delivery or pick up of any needed materials (pamphlets, etc.).
  • Represent CNIB to the general public and specific audiences including seniors’ groups, schools, community groups, corporate groups, event attendees, and vision health professionals. 
  • Share your personal experience with vision loss and CNIB services and programs. 
  • May include setting up of displays and demonstrating technical aids.
  • Some Ambassadors may receive additional training and requests to do media interviews.
  •  Submit a brief report after each booking including travel time, length of engagement, number of attendees and how it went.

Virtual Vision Mate

Ideal for: Individual, Youth

The Virtual Vision Mate program gives volunteers an opportunity to engage in friendly conversations with people who are blind or partially sighted. You can schedule your chats on a set day and time every week, or you can schedule week-to-week, whatever works for both of you. 

Vision Mate

Location details: Community Location

Community Locations across the province! CNIB has individuals waiting for a volunteer in all areas of our region.  We will work with you to find a match that is convenient for you.

Ideal for: Individual, Corporate, Student Placements

Vision Mates provide regular, one-to-one assistance and companionship for a person who is blind or partially sighted. Matches are made with someone who lives close to your home, school or work. You visit once a week for a couple of hours to assist with tasks like reading, errands (like groceries and shopping), going for walks, and socializing.