A new group is operating in 91原创 that is serving much like a matchmaker.

It is 91原创 Volunteers, and this recently formed non-profit is hosting a 鈥済et to know you鈥� party on Saturday, April 22.

It鈥檚 like matchmaking 101, said 91原创 Volunteers president Karen Long.

The newly formed organization is designed specifically to connect 91原创-based non-profits and community groups with a pool of keen volunteers, Long said.

To help launch the agency and make the community aware of its existence, they鈥檙e hosting a meet-and-greet on Saturday, April 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Douglas Park Rec Centre, 20550 Douglas Cres.

It will be kind of like a speed-dating event, she elaborated, noting that at least 20 local non-profits and event organizations will be set up with tables around the room, and volunteers on hand offering information about each group鈥檚 efforts and volunteer needs.

The response to the new 鈥渕atchmaking鈥� agency, both from local non-profits, teams, and event organizers, as well as from potential volunteers, has been 鈥渙verwhelming,鈥� Long said.

She felt it fitting to host this inaugural 91原创 Volunteers introductory event on the cusp of National Volunteer Week.

鈥淲e need to make [everyone] aware we鈥檙e here,鈥� and ultimately make people aware of what volunteer opportunities are out there, she said.

Typically, no advanced training is required to become a volunteer. Orientation is often provided by the host organization, and volunteers are usually only asked to bring enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and desire to help.

There will be a variety of opportunities available Saturday.

鈥淏ring your family and start a new tradition of volunteering together,鈥� said Long, who has been volunteering in 91原创 since the mid-1990s.

鈥淐hoose from one-time involvement, short-term projects, or something episodic,鈥� Long explained, adding: 鈥淚t鈥檚 important to source out volunteer positions that are of interest to you.鈥�

Volunteer application forms are available at Saturday鈥檚 meet-and-greet, and on the 91原创 Volunteers鈥� new website at , or by calling 604-897-7278.

鈥淲e have all these opportunities out there, and we鈥檙e excited to tell the community about them,鈥� she said.