" Supporting social engagement is one of the most beautiful missions there is. By promoting solidarity, empowering organizations, and building a supportive community, we amplify the power of volunteer action and increase its impact every day. "
Geneviève Fecteau
Executive Director
The Volunteer Bureau of Montreal (VBM) has been promoting volunteer engagement in Montreal since 1937. It supports individuals and organizations through matching services, guidance, training, and by creating spaces for collaboration and community mobilization. The VBM works to make volunteering more accessible, inclusive, and recognized as a driver of social change that fosters both individual and collective well-being.
Since its beginnings, the VBM has played a key role in the field of food security in Montreal. Today, it continues to be part of this essential movement by supporting a network of Meals-on-Wheels, both administratively and in the management of their services. This support is vital, as the VBM holds their operating permit, a status they cannot obtain on their own due to their “artisanal” nature. Thanks to this support, these 100% volunteer-driven organizations can not only ensure their operations and sustainability, but also provide much more than meals: they break isolation and offer daily support to hundreds of Montrealers.
For nearly 90 years, the VBM has been supporting the evolution of volunteerism and civic engagement. From its beginnings rooted in wartime mutual aid to its current role as a reference point for the Montreal community, every step highlights the importance of solidarity and service to others. Discover the key moments that have shaped our journey.
1937 |
Creation of Canada's first Volunteer Bureau during the wartime volunteer movement, highlighting the essential contribution of women to community support. |
1947 |
Official foundation of the Volunteer Bureau of Montreal by the Montreal Junior League to facilitate women's access to volunteer activities. |
1966 |
VBM helps establish the first Meals on Wheels service in Montreal. |
1972 |
VBM becomes a founding member of the Quebec Federation of Volunteer Centres (FCABQ). |
2007 |
VBM receives the Quebec Volunteer Tribute Award and the Agnes C. Higgins Award from Centraide of Greater Montreal. |
2022 |
VBM celebrates its 85th anniversary and is recovering from the pandemic. |
Collaboration is an intrinsic value at the VBM: our mission itself promotes collaboration between citizen volunteers and organizations working to improve society. Internally, we encourage collaboration among staff, volunteers, and all stakeholders.
The VBM is doubly committed: First, to putting every effort into fulfilling its mission. Second, to encouraging citizen engagement through volunteerism, empowering everyone to contribute positively to Montreal society.
The VBM respects everyone it interacts with. We ensure alignment between the values and interests of our volunteers and organizations. Internally, respect is also reflected in our commitment to the well-being of our staff and volunteers.
The VBM listens carefully to its environment. We remain open to changing societal needs, new forms of volunteerism, and to all individuals who wish to get involved.
The VBM embraces its uniqueness — in its history, its team, and its distinctive approach among Volunteer Centres. We also recognize and celebrate the uniqueness of each volunteer, offering a meaningful and personalized experience.
The VBM serves the entire Montreal population while offering localized support and coordination in 11 boroughs, primarily located in the west end, downtown, and southwest of the city:
1. Côte-Saint-Luc
2. Mount-Royal
3. Parc-Extension
4. Montreal-West
5. Côte-des-Neiges and Notre-Dame-de-Grâce
6. Outremont
7. Westmount
8. Ville-Marie
9. LaSalle
10. The Sud-West
11. Verdun
The VBM is a member of the Fédération des centres d’action bénévole du Québec (FCABQ), which brings together 121 Volunteer Bureaus. On the Island of Montreal, there are several Volunteer Bureaus (VBs). This territorial network allows us to ensure better access to volunteer services and to effectively represent volunteer action within different communities.
Each Volunteer Bureau develops its own range of services based on local needs. The VBM offers volunteer matching services, corporate volunteering programs, training, and support in volunteer management, while others specialize manly in areas such as home support, community kitchens, accompaniment to medical appointments, or other local initiatives. Consulting your local Volunteer Bureau ensures a better allocation of resources and support tailored to the realities of the community.
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