Volunteer Airdrie schedules summer initiatives to support seniors, youth and neighbourhoods
Volunteer Airdrie is recruiting residents for a series of summer programmes and events aimed at supporting low‑income seniors and people with disabilities, engaging youth in personal development and keeping neighbourhoods tidy. Executive Director Naomi Slipp said the organisation has a number of ongoing opportunities designed to make it easy for Airdronians to give back.
The organisation held its annual general meeting on July 8, paired with a Lunch and Learn session in the Community Room at Calgary Co‑op. The educational session focused on "Volunteers with Disabilities", reflecting an emphasis on inclusive volunteer practice.
Programs and events locals can join
- Yard Angel Program: Volunteers are matched with low‑income seniors and people with disabilities to assist with yard and garden work.
- Litter League: A summer initiative enabling groups or individuals, including parents and children, to pick up litter in their communities. Volunteer Airdrie provides training, paperwork, supplies and bags.
- Duke of Edinburgh Program: For young people aged 14 to 24, a self‑directed personal development programme that includes volunteering.
- Doin it on the Grass Car and Shine: Volunteer Airdrie is handling volunteer recruitment and onsite management for the car show on Aug. 8, 2026. Free childcare for volunteers will be available through LiitCare Connect, sponsored by Child Inspired Psychology.
- Volunteer Connect Fest: A face‑to‑face opportunity for people to meet local organisations on Sept. 20.
"We've got some amazing selection of items. There's something on there for everybody," Naomi Slipp said about the current fundraising silent auction.
A fundraising silent auction is currently under way, operated in partnership with local online auction house Deal Finder Auctions. The auction is scheduled to close on July 26 at 5 p.m.
What this means for Airdrie residents
For residents who want to volunteer, the summer schedule offers a range of commitments — from short‑term litter pickups to ongoing yard assistance for vulnerable neighbours. For families, the availability of organised training and supplies through the Litter League removes barriers to participation; for young people, the Duke of Edinburgh option provides a structured way to include volunteerism as part of personal development.
Local organisations seeking volunteers can expect Volunteer Airdrie to provide training and administrative support for community cleanup efforts and to manage recruitment and onsite coordination for larger events like the car show. The inclusion of free childcare at the Aug. 8 event may also broaden who can participate.
| Program / Event | Key detail |
|---|---|
| AGM & Lunch and Learn | July 8 — topic: Volunteers with Disabilities |
| Silent Auction | Closes July 26 at 5 p.m.; partnered with Deal Finder Auctions |
| Doin it on the Grass Car and Shine | Aug. 8 — volunteer recruitment and onsite management; free childcare via LiitCare Connect |
| Volunteer Connect Fest | Sept. 20 — meet local organisations |
Volunteer Airdrie’s summer programming underscores the organisation’s role as a coordinator between volunteers and community needs. Residents interested in participating or learning more should contact Volunteer Airdrie directly for details on registration, training and schedules.
