Volunteering is one of the most impactful ways individuals can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient community. Through my experience with Green Calgary, I’ve had the opportunity to support environmental education and outreach efforts that empower Calgarians to live more Sustainably. These experiences have not only deepened my understanding of sustainability but have reinforced my interest in pursuing it further.
Environmental volunteering offers a unique chance to connect with like-minded individuals, develop practical skills and contribute meaningfully to a collective effort. Across Calgary, volunteer-led initiatives have played an essential role in advancing local sustainability efforts.
The University of Calgary’s Campus Community Garden is a prime example of an sustainability-driven initiative with a vast impact on its community. The garden is managed by the Office of Sustainability in partnership with the Community Garden club which is a student-led organization that oversees events, workshops and student engagement activities. This garden provides volunteers and club members with the opportunity to participate in educational workshops, facilitating weekly events and encourages community participation and hands-on learning. Volunteers contribute by participating in garden clean-ups, planting, and maintaining shared spaces, as well as leading weekly drop-in events and guiding campus groups on tours. These contributions are integral to the garden's ongoing success and help cultivate a strong community atmosphere while promoting sustainable practices among participants.
Other impactful volunteer initiatives in the city include waste-reduction campaigns led by Plastic-Free YYC and the Calgary River Valleys’ stewardship programs, both of which rely on volunteers to drive environmental awareness and action.
Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone simply passionate about the environment, there are countless ways to get involved. Organizations like Green Calgary and student-led initiatives like the Campus Community Garden are always looking for new volunteers.
