About Us
Who We Are
Community Volunteer Connections has been rooted in the Tri-Cities since 1976, serving as a volunteer centre supporting communities across Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Coquitlam, and surrounding regions.
We believe volunteerism is the foundation of a connected, compassionate community. As a voice for volunteerism in our region, we bring people together to support local action and strengthen the capacity of nonprofits.
Our vision is a volunteer-engaged region where everyone can contribute and grow through meaningful involvement. We are guided by the belief that volunteering strengthens communities while empowering the people within them.
Mission – to support and promote volunteerism as a means to enhancing quality of life for individuals and organizations.
Our Values
We believe volunteerism is one of the most powerful ways to build connection, belonging, and community resilience.
We value accessibility in volunteer opportunities and strive to reduce barriers so more people can participate in meaningful ways.
We believe in meeting people where they are, whether they are new to volunteering, returning after time away, or bringing years of experience.
We approach our work with collaboration, transparency, and respect for the communities and organizations we serve.
We recognize that volunteering should benefit both the community and the individual, creating opportunities for growth, learning, and connection.
Current Programs
Over recent years, our sector has continued to adapt to shifting economic and social conditions, and our programs have evolved alongside the needs of the communities we serve. Some initiatives have been redesigned, while others have been paused or reimagined to better reflect current capacity and demand.
Today, our work includes supporting volunteerism through the Mental Health Integration Support Volunteer Program, the Volunteer Inclusion Program, and our Annual Volunteer Fair.
We also provide volunteer referrals and advising for individuals, along with membership and subscriber services that support nonprofits in strengthening their volunteer engagement and capacity.
Interested in joining the board?
If this work resonates with you, we’d be glad to connect. Board service is grounded in conversation, not application forms, and there is no commitment required at this stage.
Start A Conversation with Filio.
Our History
Since 1976, our work has focused on empowering people to take meaningful action by connecting them with accessible resources, guidance, and volunteer opportunities. Alongside this, we support nonprofits, charities, and public-serving organizations in the recruitment and coordination of volunteers.
In 1988, we received our first service delivery contract with the Ministry of Adults with Intellectual Disabilities. This work focused on advocacy and support to help adults in this community access and participate in volunteer opportunities. The program continues to evolve today as we deepen our local impact.
In 2002, we launched our first Festival of Volunteers at Coquitlam Centre Mall. The event brought together community members and local organizations to celebrate volunteerism and strengthen engagement across the region. It later expanded to New Westminster in 2004 and Surrey in 2018.
In 2007, we introduced the Flying Squad, creating opportunities for high school students to engage in their communities while completing volunteer hour requirements. The program was designed for short-term, flexible, and accessible volunteer experiences.
In 2009, we partnered with Fraser Health Authority to support volunteer programs in mental health care facilities. This included a 64-bed treatment facility in Coquitlam and later expanded in 2018 to a 54-bed facility in Surrey, providing both short-term and long-term volunteer support.
Over time, these initiatives and many others have contributed to stronger, more connected communities where people are supported to participate, contribute, and create meaningful change.
Join The Conversation
If you’re curious about board service with Community Volunteer Connections, we’d welcome a short, informal conversation to explore whether it’s a fit.