Volunteer Opportunities

At MTN, we offer two ways to get involved: our Cultural Trailblazers Volunteer Program who support MTN in keeping running, and One-Time Volunteers who support special events and programs. Whether you’re looking to contribute regularly or just help out occasionally, there’s a role for you!

Cultural Trailblazers

Become part of an amazing group of people committed to making nature more welcoming for BIPOC communities. Our Cultural Trailblazers Volunteer Program allows you to connect with the outdoor community, get outside in nature, and bring your unique skillset to support our programming.

A group of hikers walking along a trail beside a river with mountains and pine trees in the background.
A woman with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses sitting on a folding chair, smiling and talking to a girl with glasses and a floral shirt, outdoors on a sunny day.
A yellow rescue stretcher with orange ropes lying on snow-covered ground with small dry plants.
People on an indoor ice skating rink, some wearing helmets, practicing skating with an instructor.

Why become a Cultural Trailblazer?

  • Support BIPOC, newcomer, and refugee youth who normally don’t have access to outdoor recreation opportunities

  • Gain volunteer hours and leadership experience for your resume

  • Connect with other outdoor enthusiasts and access our community of partners such as CPAWS Southern Alberta, Arc’teryx, and more

  • Attend table events where you can expand your network in the fields of environment, outdoor recreation, health and wellness, and conservation

  • Get first pick on volunteering opportunities for instructing and guiding outdoor programs (dependent on certification and skills)

  • Access free or low-budget training and opportunities, such as Field Leader Certifications (which can be used to start your own guiding business!)

  • Participate in volunteer appreciation events!

Volunteer Commitment

Volunteers are expected to contribute a minimum of 2 hours per month. Volunteer shifts are self-directed and can be done virtually at your own time and pace - other than attending events and programs which have set times.

Volunteer Intake Processes

Before applying, we encourage you to review our volunteer intake process which explains what you can expect when you apply to become a volunteer. Through this process we are able to better ensure that our volunteers are set up to have a fulfilling and positive experience. This volunteer intake process is an important process since MTN serves vulnerable community members.

  • Fill out our online application form to start the process. This form asks you a few preliminary questions in order for us to determine if you might be a good fit for MTN. We’ll do our best to get back to you within one (1) week.

  • We’ll chat to confirm the volunteer commitments and ensure you are able to attend to this commitment. This can be done over email or by a quick phone call. We’ll go through the Volunteer Agreement at this time as well.

  • Let’s get to know each other! We’ll have the opportunity to meet up for a nature walk in Calgary, grab a coffee, or connect virtually so we can learn more about each other. We’ll share about MTN’s work and answer any questions you may have about volunteering. We also want to ensure this an opportunity for your professional development, so please share any unique skills that you would like to bring to MTN and we can talk about how you can integrate them into your volunteering.

  • You’ll be required to sign the Volunteer Agreement, review the policies, onboarding materials, and any other important documents.

  • Let’s get you out in the field! (Or in some cases - to an indoor event!) This is your opportunity to shadow an MTN program or event to get familiar with our mission and values. Take this opportunity to connect with the MTN community to learn more about what is important to them.

  • Congratulations! You are now officially part of the MTN Volunteer Program!

    You’ll undertake your monthly shift based on your personal preferences and skills. This might include writing blog posts, scoping out new program plans, taking photos, helping our with our gear library, or whatever unique activity we have decided on together.

    We’ll share any opportunities for training and certifications and ensure you have first opportunity to attend before any public call outs. Eventually, you may even be leading your own MTN program!

    Please note that before leading a program as a certified Field Leader, you will be required to complete a Police Information Check - Vulnerable Sector. MTN will reimburse for the associated fee.

Please submit your application using the link below if you are interested in being a Cultural Trailblazer.

Volunteer Program Application

One-Time Volunteering Opportunities

Are you passionate about and skilled in a specific outdoor activity? Do you love sharing your skills with others? We’ll post any opportunities for instructors and special events here. This may include activities like: hiking, ice-skating, cross-country skiing, our annual fundraiser, and more!

  • No Current Opportunities Available

    Thank you so much for your interest in volunteering! We currently do not have a need for One-Time Volunteers. However, please submit your application of interest to be on our mailing list for future opportunities.

    Also - be sure to keep an eye out on this page or follow us on social media for future announcements. Better yet, subscribe to our newsletter to have them delivered right into your inbox.

    One-Time Volunteer Application