Want to help make a difference in your community?

If so, the Homelessness Services Association of British Columbia wants to know.

The organization is calling for volunteers in Surrey and Vancouver for this year's , to be held March 10-11, to help gather valuable information that is then used to deliver appropriate programs to address homelessness.

Register for a mandatory training session to take part; training sessions will take place from Feb 20 to March 9.

Homeless counts have taken place in Greater Vancouver every three years since 2002, the noted, and they provide "critical information on the number and characteristics of our region鈥檚 population who are experiencing homelessness and how this population has changed over time."

The Homeless Count involves identifying and conducting a brief anonymous survey with people experiencing homelessness.鈥疶he street survey typically involves walking, biking or driving around a neighbourhood looking for individuals to survey, while the shelter survey is conducted in various shelters across the region.

Volunteers will work in teams of two and must be 19 years of age or older.

To find out more about what is required or to sign up to volunteer, visit the website ( or email Volunteers@HSA-BC.ca with any questions.