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Volunteer

Make a real difference by helping us improve our communities.

Welcome to the OCH Volunteer Engagement Program

We invite you and your team to become involved in our communities in a unique and rewarding way. We welcome volunteer groups of all sizes to help with maintenance and beautification projects. The goal of these projects is to help engage the communities by bringing people together to make a difference. 

While capital costs, such as roof repairs, elevator maintenance, and simply the upkeep of all our buildings, take priority, these volunteer projects are the little things that truly affect the lives of our tenants in a positive way, allowing them to feel the pride of place in their community. The undeniable feeling of joy that comes from seeing the smiles on others’ faces simply from lending a helping hand is invaluable.  

  • Corporate Volunteering Program

    About the program:

    Are you looking for a volunteer project tailored to your corporate group? Our Corporate Volunteering Program offers countless volunteer opportunities. You will spend a day giving back to the community, learning about social housing while team building and connecting with your colleagues. By volunteering with OCH, you will create meaningful and sustainable change by contributing to building a stronger and more inclusive environment.

    We provide the equipment, materials, and supplies for each project. A donation is not required for our projects; however, it helps us direct funds towards other community needs that benefit OCH tenants.

     

    How to register:

    • Projects are booked on a first-come, first-serve basis. We need 4-6 weeks lead time for projects.
    • Please fill out online form to inquire and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
    • For more information, please email us at volunteer@och.ca
  • Partners Support Program

    About the program:

    Are you an OCH Partner that serves tenants and is looking for additional support? Our team of employees is afforded the opportunity to give back to the community through our Employee Engagement Program. The projects completed under this program help promote team building (one team approach) by encouraging activities that enhance collaboration, communication, and relationships among team members and partners.

    Learn more about:

     

    Some partners we have worked with in the past:

    How to register:

    • Projects are booked on a first-come, first-serve basis. We need 4-6 weeks lead time for projects.
    • Please fill out our online form to inquire and we will get back to you within 5 -7 business days.
    • For more information, please email us at volunteer@och.ca

     

  • Co-op Student Placement Program

    About the program:

    Are you a student looking for an un-paid placement/internship within Ottawa Community Housing? Our Co-op Student Placement Program gives post-secondary students the opportunity to gain practical experience, build a professional network, enhance their resume, and potentially secure a future employment. We will match you to the appropriate OCH department based on your area of studies.

    Opportunities of placement with OCH:

    • Community Development
    • Community Safety Services
    • Tenancy Support/Admin
    • Project Management
    • Finance/Accounting
    • Human Resources
    • Communications/Marketing
    • Maintenance Support

    Eligibility:

    To be eligible for Student Placement with the Ottawa Community Housing you must:

    • Be enrolled in a recognized post-secondary institution.
    • Be legally entitled to work in Canada.
    • Provide police record check.
    • Complete the OCH onboarding process.

    How to apply:

    • Please note that OCH requires a minimum of 30 days to review your application prior to your placement start date.
    • Please fill out online form to inquire about placement opportunities.
    • For more information, please email us at volunteer@och.ca

2023 Highlights

Thank you to our volunteers

52

Communities Benefitted

1,073

Volunteers Engaged

5,784

Volunteer Hours Worked

95

OCH Tenants Engaged

63

Engagement Events

35

Corporate Volunteer Groups

OCH Volunteers In The Media

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CTV News

Bench Aims To Spur Intergenerational Chats

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Cliniconex

Cliniconex Gives Back | Ottawa Community Housing

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Manor Park Chronicle

Community garden blossoms at 500 St. Laurent (see p.7)

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CTV News

Volunteers from Across the Country Complete Renovations at Family House Serving OCH Residents

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Featured Volunteer Projects