HR Communications Specialist (Unpaid Volunteer Position)
Top Benefits
About the role
HR Communications Specialist (Unpaid Volunteer Position) About Etobicoke Humane Society (EHS) EHS is an independent, all-volunteer, federally registered charity serving the Greater Toronto Area since 1987. EHS services are available for cats and dogs and we offer on-site sheltering and adoption as well as off-site fostering for special needs animals. Our mission is to protect, care for and advance the welfare of animals. For more information, visit us at www.etobicokehumanesociety.com. Position Overview Etobicoke Humane Society is seeking an experienced and creative HR Communications Specialist to support internal communications across the organization. This unpaid volunteer role requires a commitment of approximately 2–4 hours per week and offers an opportunity to help strengthen communication, engagement, and collaboration within a volunteer-driven organization. Reporting to the HR Associate Director, the HR Communications Specialist will develop and coordinate communications that support volunteers, leadership teams, and organizational initiatives. This role will be responsible for crafting clear, engaging, and professional messaging, while also providing occasional support for presentations, surveys, and communication-related projects. Key Responsibilities Develop, write, and distribute internal communications on behalf of the HR team, including announcements, updates, newsletters, and volunteer engagement initiatives. Partner with HR and operational leaders to communicate key initiatives, policy updates, training opportunities, and organizational changes. Ensure communications are clear, consistent, aligned with EHS values, and tailored to the appropriate audience. Support communication planning and execution for volunteer programs, recognition initiatives, recruitment campaigns, and organizational projects. Draft and edit a variety of written materials, including emails, presentations, guides, FAQs, and resource documents. Support the development of presentation materials and slide decks for leadership meetings, volunteer information sessions, and organizational communications. Maintain communication templates and contribute to the continuous improvement of internal communication processes and practices. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify communication needs and opportunities to improve volunteer engagement and information sharing. Help promote a positive, inclusive, and connected volunteer experience through effective HR communication strategies. Qualifications & Skills 3–5 years of experience in communications, public relations, corporate communications, employee communications, internal communications, or a related field. Exceptional written communication, editing, and proofreading skills with strong attention to detail. Ability to translate complex or sensitive information into clear, audience-friendly messaging. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines independently. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with leaders and volunteers across diverse teams. Experience creating presentations, communication materials, surveys, and engagement content. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (including PowerPoint) and/or Google Workspace. Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with professionalism and discretion. A proactive, adaptable, and solution-oriented approach. Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting HR, volunteer management, employee communications, change management communications, or organizational development initiatives. HR education, certification, or practical HR experience. Experience using survey and engagement tools such as Google Forms, or similar platforms. Experience working within nonprofit or volunteer-driven organizations. What We Offer Hands-on experience supporting communications and engagement initiatives within a nonprofit environment. Opportunities to collaborate with experienced leaders and professionals across multiple disciplines. Volunteers who complete a minimum of six months of service are eligible to request a reference letter. A rewarding opportunity to contribute to animal welfare and community service. Flexible scheduling to accommodate other commitments. The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on volunteer engagement and organizational effectiveness. How to Apply Please email the following to hrcoordinator@etobicokehumanesociety.com: Resume Brief statement of interest outlining your relevant experience and motivation for volunteering A writing sample demonstrating your communication skills (e.g., internal announcement, newsletter article, employee/volunteer communication, presentation content, communications plan, or similar professional writing sample) Final selection is subject to successful completion of professional reference checks and a police check. Join us in making a difference—one volunteer at a time!