Volunteering After 55
You've spent decades building a career, raising a family, coaching a team, running a classroom, or simply learning to navigate life. That experience doesn't retire when you do. At Start2Finish, it becomes exactly what a child needs.
We're looking for volunteers age 55 and older to join our Running & Reading Club and Brainworx! programs — and we've designed this opportunity around what actually matters at this stage of life: flexibility, connection, purpose, and zero cost or hassle to you.
Your Experience Can Change a Child’s Story
Why Volunteers 55+ Choose Start2Finish
Retirement, an empty nest, or simply having more time again can be freeing — and it can also leave a gap where structure, purpose, and daily connection used to be. Volunteering with Start2Finish fills that gap in a way that fits real life:
A reason to get up and out. Whether it's a weekly walk or run and reading session in a school gym, or a short video call twice a week, you'll have a standing commitment that gets you moving, thinking, and engaging — without taking over your calendar.
Real relationships, for those who want them. If you're looking for something more personally meaningful than a behind-the-scenes task, this is designed for you. You'll build an ongoing relationship with a specific child(ren) over weeks or months, watching them grow more confident in reading, in interacting with others, and in who they are. Many volunteers say this is the most rewarding part.
A place for what you already know. You don't need a teaching degree or coaching certification. What you do need — patience, life experience, the ability to listen and encourage — you already have. We provide full training to help you apply it.
A tailored fit. It’s not a “one size fits all” — participate based on your own interests and abilities.
Connection across generations. For many volunteers, especially those who don’t have kids of their own or whose own kids or grandkids live far away, this is a chance to stay meaningfully connected to a child's life and to a community of fellow volunteers who care about the same thing you do.
Recognition that you're valued. This isn't a one-and-done ask. Volunteers are supported all year, and we close out every year with an appreciation event to allow you to further connect with peer volunteers and thank you properly for your time.
Two Ways to Get Involved
Running & Reading Club (in-person):
A weekly, 2-hour after-school session where you'll walk or run alongside kids and support their social-emotional skills and reading, right in your own community. Transportation support is available to make access easier when you need it.
Brainworx! (online):
A shorter commitment — just 30 to 40 minutes, twice a week — delivered virtually. A great option if getting to a school site regularly isn't practical, or if you simply prefer volunteering from home.
Flexible Time Commitments
Not ready to commit to a full school year? You don't have to. Choose whichever fits your life right now:
FULL SCHOOL YEAR — for volunteers who want an ongoing, consistent role throughout the year
SEASONAL TERM (4–8 weeks) — fall, winter, or spring — ideal if you travel seasonally, have other commitments, or simply want to try it out first
Everything Is Covered — At No Cost to You
This program is funded by the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program, which means the practical barriers are already taken care of:
Transportation to and from your volunteer site if needed
All required training before you begin
Police background checks
Program-related activities and materials
A year-end appreciation event to celebrate our volunteers
You bring your time and your experience. We take care of the rest!
Is This Right for You?
You're 55 or older and live in one of our in-person program cities, or you have online access wherever you reside
You have 2 hours a week (in-person) or 30–40 minutes twice a week (online) to give
You don't need any teaching or coaching background — just a willingness to show up for a child
You're looking for a flexible way to stay active, social, and connected to your community
What You'll Be Part Of
Start2Finish has spent over 26 years helping children in under-resourced communities across Canada build literacy, confidence, and healthy habits — and your involvement helps extend that work right in your neighbourhood, alongside a growing group of volunteers 55 and older who are discovering this may be one of the most fulfilling commitments of their week.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Getting started is simple:
LEARN more about the in-person program or online program
APPLY for a volunteer role — in-person or online
COMPLETE your police background check (cost fully covered by S2F) and training
START making a difference!
Questions first? Email programs@start2finishonline.org — we’re happy to walk you through which program and schedule would suit you best.
We know one size doesn't fit all, so we offer two program formats: