JustServe Builds Community Connections at National Conference

JustServe> is helping communities across Canada turn willingness into action by connecting volunteers with local organizations in need of support. The power of volunteerism and the value of community collaboration were highlighted at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Annual Conference, held June 4–7, 2026, at the Edmonton Convention Centre. Through its growing presence, the JustServe platform promotes volunteerism, strengthening municipalities and increasing community engagement by making it easy for people to find meaningful ways to serve.

Making Volunteerism Simple and Accessible

More than 3,000 municipal representatives and 172 exhibitors attended the conference. Dave and Karri Stewart, Canada Area JustServe specialists, and JustServe specialists from across Canada met with municipal leaders and community organizations to demonstrate how the free JustServe platform makes it simple for individuals, families and groups to find meaningful volunteer opportunities. The conference helped to raise awareness of service initiatives and sparked new partnerships to address local needs.

Louis DeSerres, JustServe specialist for Montreal and Eastern Canada, attended the conference. He said, “Meeting all these representatives from municipalities all across Canada helped me gain a better understanding of their needs and how we can help them. When we shared what JustServe was about and how to access it, many chose to download the application on the spot.”

Now operating in 17 countries and in six languages, JustServe continues to grow in Canada, helping communities mobilize volunteers quickly and effectively. Municipal leaders explored how the platform can support local priorities, from food security to youth programs, by matching willing volunteers with organizations that need help.

The impact was demonstrated firsthand when JustServe specialists participated in a hands-on service project at the BGC Big Brothers Big Sisters in downtown Edmonton. JustServe volunteers prepared meals for youth attending a Club Day event, modelling the kind of service the platform promotes.

Building Capacity for Community Engagement

In addition to the FCM conference and service activities, JustServe leaders participated in smaller training sessions focused on expanding collaboration, strengthening relationships and fostering unity through service. Discussions also centred on increasing community engagement across Canada.

This historic gathering was a first for the JustServe team in the newly formed Canada Area. Instruction was provided by Steve Bulpitt, JustServe international manager; Rob Freeze, Canada Area director of communication and publishing; Dave Reeve, Canada Area welfare and self-reliance manager; and Elder Robert W. Mendenhall, Area Seventy responsible for JustServe in Canada.

Maria Johnson, JustServe specialist for Calgary, said the highlight of the conference was “meeting people from every province and territory in Canada. It was inspiring to see their passion and commitment to volunteerism. There are so many incredible people across this country helping our communities thrive.”

“It was especially inspiring to see the JustServe specialists in action,” said Bulpitt. “This call to service will have a lasting impact, strengthening community service efforts, fostering unity and helping care for those in need across Canada.”

Anyone Can Make a Difference

As JustServe continues to expand, it offers a simple but powerful invitation: Anyone can make a difference. By connecting people with real needs in their own neighbourhoods, the platform is helping communities across Canada grow stronger, one act of service at a time.