Advocacy

Position Overview

Advocacy volunteers are passionate voices for the six million people in Canada living with arthritis. These volunteers make their voices heard by campaigning for healthy public policy during federal and provincial elections, promoting arthritis initiatives through social media, writing letters to and meeting with elected officials, and participating in government consultations and other important advocacy calls to action.

Time Commitment

• Advocacy volunteers typically contribute 1-2 hours per month


• This is a flexible role with no fixed schedule


• Volunteer engagement may vary depending on campaign needs throughout the year

Key Areas of Responsibility

• Work with Arthritis Society Canada to amplify strategic campaigns championing arthritis-related issues


• Use various online methods to reach elected officials, healthcare professionals, and the wider public


• Attend public events to advocate for people affected by arthritis


• Join local or national patient groups to further advocacy efforts


• Contribute to letter-writing campaigns, social media engagement, and government consultations

Desired Skills & Attributes

• Passionate about improving the lives of those affected by arthritis


• Strong interest in public policy, health advocacy, or community engagement


• Comfortable using email and social media platforms to take action


• Good written and verbal communication skills


• Ability to work independently and respond to time-sensitive advocacy initiatives


• Lived experience with arthritis or connection to someone affected is an asset

Availability & Working Environment

• Advocacy roles are available across Canada, at both local and national levels


• This is primarily a remote opportunity, with occasional in-person options available. Volunteers can participate from anywhere in Canada with reliable internet access.

Major Contacts

• An Arthritis Society Canada staff member will directly oversee this role


• Fellow advocacy volunteers, government officials, healthcare professionals, and community members.

Working Environment

This position is remote with occasional in-person options available. Volunteers can contribute from any location with internet access.

We thank all applicants for their interest in volunteering with Arthritis Society Canada. Please note that not all candidates will be selected to join our volunteer program.

Volunteers in the Advocacy Program should be:

• Passionate about raising awareness and influencing change for individuals affected by arthritis


• Strong communicators, both written and verbal


• Comfortable with research, policy review, and sharing evidence-based information


• Confident in engaging with diverse audiences, including stakeholders, community members, and decision-makers


• Able to work independently and as part of a team


• Organized and detail-oriented to track initiatives, campaigns, or outreach efforts


• Familiarity with advocacy strategies, social media, or public campaigns is an asset


• Personal experience with arthritis or understanding its impact is a plus

Volunteers in the Advocacy Program will have the opportunity to develop:

• Knowledge of advocacy strategies, policy, and public awareness campaigns


• Communication, public speaking, and persuasive writing skills


• Confidence in engaging with stakeholders, community members, and decision-makers


• Research and analytical skills to support evidence-based advocacy


• Teamwork and collaboration within a professional health organization


• Experience in driving change and raising awareness on issues affecting individuals with arthritis


• Greater understanding of the challenges faced by people living with arthritis

• Volunteers can expect to contribute approximately 2-4 hours per month, depending on the projects or campaigns they are involved in.


• Flexibility is provided-volunteers can choose tasks and activities that fit their schedule.


• Some initiatives may require short-term, higher-intensity involvement, such as participating in advocacy events or submitting policy feedback.


• A minimum commitment of 3-6 months is encouraged to allow volunteers to see their advocacy efforts through to completion.


• Additional time may be needed for research, preparation, or collaboration with Arthritis Society Canada staff to support advocacy goals.

• Online Application Form Below
• Email: volunteer@arthritis.ca (Include Opportunity ID)
• Online: arthritis.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=821136