Community

Do Good, Be Good

Volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do. From game days to community outreach, our organization thrives because people choose to give their time, energy, and passion to something bigger than themselves.

Volunteers working together in community and sports environments

Smiling faces, teamwork, connection, and community-first values

"We are only strong if we give ourselves to something bigger than ourselves."

— Walter Payton

"Make sure the world is better because you were here."

— Jim Brown

"You have a responsibility to give back when you've been given so much."

— Tom Brady

Volunteers aren't "extra help." They are leaders, builders, and changemakers who turn values into action and strengthen the community around them.

In Loving Memory

Patti Ann Hancock

Some people serve quietly. Some people give without being asked. She did both—steadily, generously, and with care.

She gave her time to the Ottawa Sooners the same way she gave it to her community and the people around her: fully and without expectation. Whether supporting the team, helping behind the scenes, or simply being present, her impact was felt through consistency, kindness, and genuine connection.

She believed that giving back wasn't a gesture—it was a responsibility. That belief became the inspiration behind Little P Studio, rooted in her faith that social enterprise can do more than create—it can serve, uplift, and connect people. For her, doing good and being good were inseparable.

Within the Ottawa Sooners family, her legacy lives on through the values she embodied: service, humility, and care for others. The time she shared continues to shape how we show up for our team and our community.

Her presence is missed, but her influence remains—carried forward in the way we choose to give back.

"Do Good. Be Good."

Legacy Volunteer Award

In her honour, the Ottawa Sooners have created the Legacy Volunteer Award.

This award recognizes individuals who reflect the same spirit she lived by—those who give their time freely, support others quietly, and strengthen the community through selfless service.

Her legacy is not only remembered. It is continued.

Why Volunteers Matter

Time, Energy, and Heart

Volunteers give more than hours—they give passion, dedication, and commitment that can\'t be measured. They show up because they believe in our mission and want to be part of something meaningful.

Skills and Expertise

Volunteers provide professional skills and expertise organizations couldn\'t otherwise afford. From marketing to coaching, administration to event management— volunteers bring real-world experience that elevates everything we do.

Power Events & Programs

From game day operations to youth development programs, volunteers are the backbone that makes our events, outreach, logistics, and community programs possible. Without them, we simply couldn\'t deliver the experiences our community deserves.

Build Relationships & Community

Volunteers create lasting bonds and strengthen community connections. They build relationships across sports, recreation, youth development, arts, and culture— contributing to community pride and long-term organizational strength.

Volunteering broadly strengthens communities across Canada and globally. In sports, recreation, youth development, arts, culture, and beyond—volunteers are the foundation of thriving communities and meaningful impact.

What Volunteering Looks Like With Us

Volunteering is flexible and inclusive. Whether you have a few hours or want to be deeply involved, there\'s a place for you here.

Whether you have a few hours or want to be deeply involved, there\'s a place for you here.

How You Can Get Involved

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Build Awareness

Learn about our community mission and the meaningful impact volunteers create. Every role matters, from game day support to youth mentorship.

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Create Interest

Hear real stories from volunteers who have found purpose, connection, and joy in giving back. See the direct impact your time creates.

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Instill Desire

Discover why volunteering is more than helping out - it's building lasting relationships, developing new skills, and being part of something bigger.

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Call to Action

Ready to make a difference? Sign up today. We'll guide you every step of the way. Your journey starts here.

Ready to Give Back?

Signing up is easy. We\'ll guide you every step of the way. No experience required—just commitment, heart, and a willingness to help.

Become a Volunteer

We Set You Up for Success

Simple Sign-Up

A straightforward registration process that gets you started quickly

Clear Role Descriptions

Understand exactly what you\'ll be doing and what\'s expected

Training & Guidance

Comprehensive training to help you feel confident and prepared

Support & Team Culture

Ongoing support from staff and experienced volunteers in a welcoming environment

Volunteering with us should feel like joining a team—not being thrown into the deep end. We\'re here to support you every step of the way.

We Value Our Volunteers

Recognition & Appreciation

  • • Volunteer appreciation events
  • • Public recognition and shout-outs
  • • Personalized thank-you messages

Community Celebrations

  • • End-of-season gatherings
  • • Volunteer milestone celebrations
  • • Team-building social events

Growth Opportunities

  • • Leadership development paths
  • • Skill-building workshops
  • • Mentorship opportunities

Your contribution creates lasting impact. We celebrate your dedication and ensure you feel valued and appreciated as an essential part of our community.

Volunteers aren\'t just helping out.
They\'re building something that lasts.

If you\'ve ever thought, "Someone should do something," this is your moment.

Be somebody.

Give back.

Join the community.

Start Your Volunteer Journey

Coming Soon: Enhanced Volunteer Features

Volunteer Registration Form

Volunteer Testimonials

Photo Gallery

Volunteer Portal