*Responding to this page is not a commitment to volunteering but just allows us to know you are interested in helping so we can contact you when opportunity details are confirmed.
About the Initiative
Emergency Support Services (ESS) is a provincial program that provides short term support
to people displaced by emergencies. The program is delivered locally by trained volunteers
who help ensure evacuees receive essential services in a safe, supportive environment.
ESS volunteers play a vital role in maintaining reception centres, offering practical
assistance, and upholding respectful and confidential interactions with the public. If you
are community minded and interested in joining the Central Okanagan ESS team, ESS
welcomes adults 19–75 who are ready to learn, serve, and support their community during
emergencies.
Description of the Volunteer Opportunity
ESS Facility Support Volunteers play an essential behind-the-scenes role in ensuring ESS reception and support sites remain clean, safe, and well-organized for evacuees, staff, and volunteers. This role supports the overall flow and functionality of ESS operations during emergencies by helping maintain shared spaces and manage supplies.
Through your practical support and willingness to assist where needed, you’ll help create a welcoming and orderly environment during stressful and uncertain times.
This is the right role for you if you are someone who:
• Enjoys hands-on, practical tasks.
• Is dependable and comfortable working independently or as part of a team.
• Is physically able to perform light to moderate tasks (standing, lifting, bending).
• Takes pride in keeping spaces clean, organized, and functional.
• Understands the importance of confidentiality and respectful conduct.
A Facility Support Volunteer must:
• Report to a Central Okanagan ESS Volunteer (typically the Logistics Chief or Facilities Branch Lead) assisting
• Assist with routine facility upkeep, such as taking out garbage and recycling.
• Assist as a runner - passing messages and supplies.
• Move supplies, furniture, or equipment as needed to support ESS operations.
• Wipe and sanitize tables, counters, and other high touch surfaces.
• Restock basic supplies as directed by ESS staff or supervisors.
• Respond flexibly to changing needs within the ESS site.
Volunteering in this role offers you:
• A practical and meaningful way to support your community during emergencies.
• Experience working within ESS response operations.
• The opportunity to contribute to a positive and supportive environment for evacuees and volunteers.
Other Helpful Information
- Volunteers should be between the ages of 19 and 90
- This volunteer opportunity is INDOORS
- Orientation & job training will be provided at first shift
Available Shifts:
Shifts depend on ESS activations and may include daytime, evening, or weekend hours.
High Need in Volunteers on August 7, 8, 9, 2026!
Shifts: 8:30am – 2pm & 1:30pm – 7pm
Next Shifts Date and Times to be confirmed
High need on Fridays/Saturdays/Sundays
- Number of Volunteers Needed: 6 per shift
- Location: Emergency Services (ESS) Reception centre - Westbank Lions Community Centre - 2466 Main Street, West Kelowna)
Frequently Asked Questions
How might I be asked to help?
When a need is identified where volunteers are needed, you will receive an email indicating the need and commitment.
Will I be trained in my role?
Yes, there will be a main contact person on the ground who will provide training.
When will I be contacted?
As details of specific needs are identified you will receive an email that will have more details. You can respond directly to that email. By responding to the current opportunity page, you are indicating you wish to be notified of this volunteer need when activated. We have on-call list for multiple opportunities as they rise, please click to sign up here.
I do not live in the area, but I would like to help.
We are looking to grow our call out list, but some roles will only be available for those who are in the area. For all opportunities related to wildfire response (some roles may be done remotely), please click here. Please ensure you are joining the call out list for the host community where you live. (See top of page for links.)
If you have any questions, please connect with Olena (OlenaS@uwbc.ca) and MagdaK@uwbc.ca
