With the ongoing food crisis across Ontario, and an increase in weekly outreaches, we are always looking for reliable volunteers including:
- Weekly Site Volunteers (in York region, Toronto and throughout the GTA)
- Drivers and Driver's Assistants
- Clothing/Sleeping Bag Collector/Donators
- Vehicle - Food and Clothing Preparation
- Marketing - ongoing and special events planning
- Donation Pickups/Drops
- Pastoral and Prayer Teams/Musicians
- Vehicle Maintenance

Code of Ethics/Conduct

Volunteers of City Street Outreach understand that CSO is a Christian based, nonprofit, registered charity dedicated to helping the unsheltered and those facing food/clothing insecurities. Volunteers are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and compassion. Our volunteers’ collective actions reflect the mission and values of the charity. It is the responsibility of volunteers, and volunteer leaders, to ensure that all those served are treated with dignity, respect, and care.

Respect for Dignity and Human Rights
● Volunteers shall treat all individuals with respect, dignity, and compassion.
● Volunteers shall strive to affirm the right of every person to be treated fairly, without discrimination.

Confidentiality and Privacy
● Volunteers shall respect the confidentiality and privacy of individuals served by the charity, ensuring that all personal information shared
with the charity is protected and not disclosed without consent, unless required by law.
● Volunteers will refrain from sharing personal stories or details of those we serve outside the context of direct charity support, except in situations where disclosure is necessary for the well-being or safety of the individual or others, or when required by law.
Integrity and Honesty
● Volunteers shall act with honesty and integrity in all interactions, both with individuals served by the charity and with other volunteers, donors, and the public.
● Volunteers will communicate openly and accurately, ensuring that the mission and its values are represented truthfully and consistently.

Compassion and Empathy
● Volunteers shall approach each outreach with compassion, understanding, and empathy, recognizing that each individual has unique needs, challenges, and experiences.
● Volunteers are committed to providing support that affirms the dignity of those being served, striving to help those in need move towards self-sufficiency.
Non-Judgmental Approach
● Volunteers refrain from making judgments about individuals’ circumstances, choices, or behaviors. Volunteers recognize that people who are unsheltered or in need, may face complex and difficult situations beyond their own control.
● Volunteers are committed to offering support in a manner that is non-judgmental and sensitive to the needs of each individual.
Commitment to Safety
● Volunteers shall prioritize the safety and well-being of individuals being served, other volunteers, and themselves. This includes adhering to all safety protocols, reporting concerns or incidents, and addressing any risks of health or safety immediately to a team leader.
● Volunteers should never engage in any activities that may harm or put others at risk, either physically, emotionally, or psychologically.
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity
● Volunteers shall be mindful of cultural, religious, and social differences and approach all individuals with an inclusive and culturally sensitive attitude.
● Volunteers will work to understand and respect diverse perspectives.
Professional Boundaries
● Volunteers should maintain appropriate boundaries in all interactions with individuals served by the charity and within the charity. Volunteers must refrain from using any behaviors or actions that could be interpreted as exploitation, favoritism, or undue influence.
● Relationships should remain professional, and volunteers should refrain from offering personal financial assistance or personal services unless explicitly authorized by the charity’s policies.
● Volunteers are expected to dress in a modest and respectful manner to ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.
Commitment to the Mission
● Volunteers shall actively support the mission and goals of the organization, which are centered on supporting the unsheltered and those in need, addressing social inequities, and improving the lives of individuals in need.
● Volunteers will uphold the values of the charity through their actions, continually striving to meet the needs of those being served with efficiency and care.
Representation of CSO
● During each outreach volunteers are to be mindful that they are representatives of CSO. Behavior, language, and topics of discussion should reflect the values of respect, kindness, and inclusivity.
● Volunteers are asked to remain quiet and respectful during prayer time, allowing those who wish to participate to do so without disruption.
● Volunteers are asked to be mindful of the impact of their words and actions towards others, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment for all.
● Volunteers are responsible for their actions and must fulfill their commitments with reliability, awareness of liability, and professionalism.
● Volunteers shall, when necessary, seek guidance from Team Leaders for clarification on any issues related to their service or the welfare of those being served.
Collaboration and Teamwork
● Volunteers shall work collaboratively with other team members, and donors to achieve the mission of the charity.
● Volunteers will foster an environment of mutual respect, cooperation, and shared responsibility, recognizing that the collective effort of the team is essential to creating a positive environment.

Mission within Mission
● Volunteers in need are welcome to discreetly set aside food for themselves after distribution has completed. However, in the event of a shortage, volunteers may be asked to prioritize clients' needs and surrender food.
Personal Growth and Learning
● Volunteers are encouraged to continually engage in self-reflection, related to homelessness, poverty, trauma, and other relevant social issues.
● Volunteers are committed to continually improving their knowledge and skills to better serve the individuals and communities supported through the charity. By agreeing to this Code of Ethics, volunteers acknowledge their commitment to these values and standards of conduct, and understand that failure to adhere to this code may result in corrective actions as deemed necessary by the charity. City Street Outreach is grateful for the dedication and service of volunteers. Together, they can help build a stronger, more compassionate community for all.

If you’ve gone through our website and are interested in volunteering, go to our CONTACT US page and let us know you;

• agree with our code of conduct/ethics

• how and what areas of the GTA you would like to volunteer

• hours you’re available, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, occasionally

• provide a paragraph or two about yourself

• include an acknowledgement that you do not have any criminal convictions (police clearance check may be requested)

• MVR abstract for vehicle driving may be requested also up to twice a year