A 1997 report on Volunteer Leadership in Saskatoon entitled Shifting Paradigms brought insight in to the present changes within Saskatoon's voluntary sector. Community needs assessment on volunteer leadership was conducted by individuals, organizations and agencies whose continued requests for information on the volunteer sector was a source of inspiration. For the purposes of advice, guidance and counsel, a Project Advisory Task Group was formed.

• Judy Croy, JAC International
• Arla Gustafson, United Way of Saskatoon (Project Chairperson)
• Joy Adams, Saskatoon District Health
• Don Ratcliffe-Smith, City of Saskatoon
• Ruth Robinson, Volunteer Management Group and Community Volunteer
• Robb Watts, Saskatchewan Social Services

Surveys within the voluntary sector were conducted and focus groups collaborated to identify the needs of Saskatoon's voluntary sector. The three dominant challenges identified included leadership, information, and resources. As a result of the research, it was recommended United Way of Saskatoon continue its leadership in the community consultation process involving the public, private and voluntary sectors in an implementation plan for a coordinated approach to volunteerism.

In November 2000, based on the information gathered in numerous sessions and surveys, United Way's Board of Directors approved the model for a Volunteer Centre as a program of United Way.

Volunteer Saskatoon is a cooperative movement of agencies working to promote volunteerism in Saskatoon. The increase of volunteer awareness and participation in our community is only as dynamic as the organizations and volunteers who are involved.

On April 28, 2001, Volunteer Saskatoon moved one step closer to reality when his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales launched our web site-www.volunteersaskatoon.com- during his visit to Saskatoon.  Arla Gustafson, Executive Director of the United Way, said it was timely for His Royal Highness to announce the initiative while he was in Saskatoon. "His Royal Highness has an interest in the area of volunteerism and this project captured his attention," said Gustafson. "Volunteer Saskatoon is an example of creativity and initiative in volunteering and will be an important addition to the community."