FAQ: VOLUNTEER WITH EDMONTON ASSOCIATION OF THE DEAF

• Support the Deaf community in meaningful ways
• Gain hands-on experience in an accessible, inclusive environment
• Learn about Deaf culture, language, and advocacy
• Build friendships and network with people from diverse backgrounds
• Make real change happen — one event, one connection at a time

Skip to the FAQs section below to see the volunteer opportunities we have. 

Everyone is welcome — Deaf, DeafBlind, hard of hearing, and hearing. American Sign Language (ASL) is the primary language used at the Edmonton Association of the Deaf and within our community. 

We encourage volunteers to establish a basic foundation in ASL to support clear communication and a positive experience.

If you are still learning ASL, we share resources on our ASL Resources page to support your learning journey. 

We especially welcome:

• Deaf volunteers who want to connect and give back
• ASL students looking for community hours or hands-on learning
• Interpreting students wanting more real-world exposure
• Hearing allies eager to support accessibility and inclusion

Some of our common volunteer roles include:

• Ad-hoc Committees
• Bartending
• Board Member
• Casino Fundraisers at Yellowhead Casino
• Christmas Banquet
• Cornfest
• Deaf Night Out (DNO)
• Drive community members who need assistance getting to and from events or activities.
• Earth Day Clean-Up
• Easter Egg Hunt
• Event Planning, Set Up and Take Down
• FRBA Bingo Support
• Halloween Party
• Interpreting (Must be qualified/certified)
• Kitchen Duties
• Mario Kart Tournament
• New Year’s Eve Celebration
• Seniors Tuesdays
• Special Events (ie. EAD 75th Anniversary)
• Volunteer Appreciation Night
• Workshops
• Other

Volunteer as much or as little as your schedule allows — whether it’s once a week, once a month, or just at special events. We are flexible and happy to match opportunities to your availability and interests.

As stated in our EAD bylaws, members are encouraged to volunteer at least once per year. Your support, even for one event, helps strengthen our community and keeps EAD’s programs running strong.

Do you know an EAD member who has made a big difference through volunteering, advocacy, or community leadership? We want to hear about them! 

Each year, EAD proudly recognizes three Members of the Year and one Volunteer of the Year for their outstanding contributions to our community. Whether they’ve helped organize events, mentored others, or quietly offered support behind the scenes — we believe every contribution matters.

To nominate someone, please include their full name and either a video message or a written letter outlining their contributions and explaining why they should be recognized. 

Nominate a member for recognition by filling out the online form. You can also use the contact form if needed, but the nomination form helps make sure we get all the right details.