Volunteer, Get Involved
Communities are built by those who step forward.
Why Volunteer?
Every event that NEST has ever organized happened because someone stepped forward. Someone planned it. Someone cooked the food. Someone set up the chairs and cleaned up afterwards. Someone welcomed the guests at the door. That someone could be you.
Volunteering with NEST is not just about giving your time. It is about belonging to something larger than yourself, knowing that your contribution, however small it may seem, helps build a community that newcomers can rely on and long-time residents are proud of. We always need more helping hands.
Ways to Volunteer
You do not need to commit to everything. Even helping with one event makes a difference.
Event Support
Setup and cleanup, food preparation and coordination, guest welcome and registration, decoration and logistics.
Newcomer Support
Sharing community pointers with people who are new to Thunder Bay and helping newcomers navigate local resources.
Media & Communications
Photography and videography, social media support, design work (posters, carousels, banners), and website content help.
Cultural Programming
Organizing and performing in cultural programs for Dashain, Tihar, Teej, Nepali New Year, and other celebrations.
Children & Youth
Helping plan and run family-friendly activities and supporting youth programming.
Translation & General Help
Nepali-English interpretation, transportation support, grocery and supply runs, and whatever is needed when it is needed.
Realistic Expectations
We want to be honest with you. Our board members and volunteers are unpaid. They have full-time jobs, families, studies, and other commitments. Volunteering happens alongside all of that.
- Not every volunteer request can be accommodated
- Some events may need more help than others
- You may be contacted when a need matches your interests and availability
- Your time and effort will always be appreciated, even when it is not possible to say so in the moment