Volunteer opportunities
Volunteers are the heart of the Community Arts Council of Richmond. Give your time to the arts and help keep creativity thriving across our city.
Give your time to the arts in Richmond
Volunteering with the Community Arts Council of Richmond is a rewarding way to share your passion for the arts with others. We have opportunities for anyone interested in volunteering throughout the year.
Since 1970, volunteers have been behind everything we do, from hanging exhibitions and welcoming visitors to supporting artists. Whatever your age or background, and whether you can give a few hours or a regular commitment, there is a place for you.
Volunteer roles
There are many ways to get involved. Here are some of the roles our volunteers take on across the year.
Exhibition & gallery help
Help our shows come together: welcome and check in artwork, hang and take down exhibitions, and greet visitors at member shows like Faces of Richmond and Shades of Fall.
Event support
Lend a hand at exhibitions, members' mixers and community concerts, from set-up and reception to welcoming guests and helping the day run smoothly.
Photography & social media
Capture our events and help share the council's story online, so more people across Richmond can discover the arts happening in their community.
Fundraising & sponsorship
Help with fundraisers and reach out to local businesses and sponsors whose support keeps our programs affordable and accessible.
Behind the scenes
Share your skills: administration, note-taking, planning, and serving on the board or a committee that helps guide the council.
Not sure where you fit? Get in touch and we will find a role that suits you.
Open to everyone
You do not need to be an artist or a member to lend a hand. If you care about the arts in Richmond, we would love to hear from you. Here is what you can expect.
- Everyone is welcome, whatever your age, background or experience. Volunteers under 16 are welcome with a parent or guardian.
- No arts training and no membership required, just enthusiasm and a little time.
- Choose the commitment that suits you, from a single event to an ongoing role.
- Tell us what you enjoy and we will match you with a role that fits.
- We will make sure you have everything you need, and a warm welcome, before you start.
- We are happy to confirm your volunteer hours for school, awards or references where needed.
We celebrate our volunteers
Each year we present the Margaret Stephens Volunteer Excellence Award, created in memory of Margaret Stephens, a beloved past director and lifetime member whose tireless volunteering inspired everyone around her.
The award honours a volunteer who has gone above and beyond for the arts in Richmond. It is our way of saying thank you for the time, skill and heart our volunteers give, all year round.
Our 2025 recipient is Kit, a CACR Director at Large. Alongside a full-time job and family, Kit gave many hours this past year writing grant applications and taking part in the meetings and workshops behind them. Her steady, behind-the-scenes work is greatly appreciated.
Volunteering: common questions
How do I volunteer with the Community Arts Council of Richmond?
Getting started is easy. Email us at info@richmondartscouncil.ca or use our contact form and tell us a little about yourself and what you enjoy. We will be in touch to help find a volunteer role that fits.
Do I need to be a member or an artist to volunteer?
Not at all. Our volunteers come from every walk of life. You do not need to be a member, an artist, or have any arts experience, just an interest in supporting the arts in Richmond. If you would like to become a member as well, we would love to have you.
Do I need any experience?
No experience is needed. Many roles, such as greeting visitors, helping set up an event or supporting a studio session, need only a friendly attitude and a little time. If you do have a particular skill, like photography, we will happily put it to good use.
How much time do I need to give?
As much or as little as you like. Some volunteers help at a single event, while others take on an ongoing role through the year. We have opportunities throughout the year and will always work around your schedule.
Can students or young people volunteer?
Yes. Volunteering with us is a wonderful way for students to gain experience and give back to the community. Volunteers under 16 are welcome with a parent or guardian, and we are glad to confirm volunteer hours where they are needed.
What kinds of volunteer opportunities are there?
Opportunities range from helping at exhibitions and community events to supporting our youth programs, photography and social media, fundraising, and behind-the-scenes roles such as administration or serving on a committee. Whatever you enjoy, there is likely a place for you.
Ready to lend a hand?
Tell us a little about yourself and what you enjoy, and we will help you find a volunteer role that fits. We would love to welcome you to the team.