Location: The Lantern (35 Barnes Rd, St. John's, NL A1C 2E8)Date: Monday, September 14, 2026Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. NDT (volunteers required from approximately 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)Role OverviewFighting Blindness Canada (FBC) is the largest charitable funder of vision research in Canada. Over our 50-year history, FBC has contributed critical funding for the development of sight-saving treatments and cures for blinding eye diseases. By raising and stewarding funds, FBC is helping drive forward research that supports our goal of understanding why vision loss occurs, how it can be slowed and how sight can be restored. We are an invaluable resource for individuals and families impacted by blindness, providing accurate eye health information through our website and educational events, as well as engaging with government and other stakeholders to advance better vision health policies.We are looking for friendly Event Day Volunteers to support upcoming education and fundraising events, including Coffee Connections on Monday, September 14, 2026. Through this role, you will be part of a team that helps the event run smoothly and safely and creates a welcoming and accessible environment for participants.As part of FBC’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion, all Education Event Day Volunteers are expected to provide sighted guide support when assisting participants living with vision loss. Sighted guide training will be provided in advance of the event.ResponsibilitiesSet up tables, chairs, signage, and event materials according to accessible floor plans and site layout instructions provided by staffDismantle tables, chairs, signage, and event materials and support cleanup after the eventWelcome participants with enthusiasm, answer general questions, and provide directions to key areas such as seating, washrooms, and event spacesGuide participants to and from the staff-run registration table and support wayfinding before and after they have been registered by staffSet up, restock, and manage food and beverage stations, and assist with cleanup throughout and after the eventIn addition, all volunteers may be asked to provide sighted guide support, including:Assisting blind or partially sighted participants with safe navigation of event spacesSupporting arrival and departure, including navigation from transit points or vehicles if neededGuiding participants through unfamiliar environments using sighted guide best practicesHelping participants locate key areas such as seating, washrooms, and event materialsRemaining attentive to individual preferences and adjusting support as neededCommunicating respectfully to enhance independence and comfortFlagging questions or concerns to FBC staff as they ariseQualificationsFriendly, reliable, and punctualStrong communication and people skillsAbility to work as part of a teamComfortable standing for extended periodsComfortable working in active event environmentsAbility to provide physical guiding support when required (training provided)Volunteers under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult (18+)Set Up and Wrap Up tasks may require lifting and carrying objects up to 25 lbs — please reach out if you have any questions about physical requirementsTime CommitmentWe ask that you commit to 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Monday, September 14, 2026Volunteers should be available for their full assigned shiftAn orientation session will be provided in advance of the eventLocationThis is an in-person volunteer opportunityEvent location: The Lantern (35 Barnes Rd, St. John's, NL A1C 2E8)Parking is available on-site at The LanternPublic transit: The Lantern is accessible by St. John’s Metrobus routes serving the surrounding Barnes Road and Topsail Road areas. Volunteers can use the Metrobus trip planner to confirm the best route and schedule from their location.Benefits of VolunteeringMake a meaningful difference for people living with vision lossSupport accessibility and inclusion in community eventsGain hands-on event operations experienceDevelop skills in communication, accessibility, and person-centred supportComplete FBC sighted guide training, adding a recognized skill to your experienceReceive confirmation of volunteer hours and a reference, if neededLunch and snacks provided (if applicable to event)To apply, please fill out the following application form: https://form.jotform.com/261824577459269If you have any questions, please contact Ushany Kanagendiran at education@fightingblindness.ca or 1-800-461-3331 ext. 270.Applications will be accepted until Friday, August 28, 2026. After we receive your application, we will review it and be in touch by Friday, September 4, 2026 to confirm your role and share next steps, including orientation and sighted guide training information.
