Suitable Volunteer Experience

Examples of Suitable Experience:

  • Working with children who have learning or physical disabilities (e.g. cerebral palsy, Downs syndrome)
  • Providing recreational programs to persons with cognitive or physical disabilities (e.g. horseback riding, skiing, summer camps)
  • Working with adults who have cognitive or physical disabilities (e.g. stroke, spinal cord injury, mental illness, physical injuries)
  • Working with elderly people who have cognitive or physical disabilities or infirmities (e.g. personal care, seniors' home, end of life care)
  • Working as a health professional (e.g. Nurse, Physical Therapy Assistant, etc) in a role that involves interaction with people with disabilities

Examples of Unsuitable Experience:

  • Coaching sports with children or adults (unless specifically with persons that have cognitive or physical disabilities)
  • Working as a receptionist/filing clerk in a physical therapy clinic or healthcare facility
  • Athletic training with a sports team (unless specifically with persons who have cognitive or physical disabilities)
  • Volunteering at fundraising events for cancer or other health conditions
  • Teaching English as a second language or personal tutor
  • Fitness or personal lifestyle coach/trainer (unless specifically with persons that have cognitive or physical disabilities)
  • Yoga, Pilates or Tai Chi instructors (unless specifically with persons who have cognitive or physical disabilities)
  • Experience gained as part of a program of study, regardless of whether it counts for credit or not (e.g. practicum, co-op, work term)