National Adult Literacy Database

The aim of ‘supported' volunteer programs is to involve people who have special needs arising out of disabilities or disadvantaged circumstances and keep them involved in volunteering. This document discusses the concept of supported volunteerism, examines factors in the success of programs supporting volunteers with special needs, and addresses key issues and challenges related to supported volunteerism. It also provides a brief review of the innovative programs that are being piloted by Canadian volunteer centres, as well as a list of the major resources in this field.