Bus Driver Volunteers

About CityKidz:  

CityKidz is a dynamic faith-based organization dedicated to improving the lives of at-risk children. We exist to increase resiliency and inspire big dreams for Canadian children living in low-income communities by providing inspirational experiences and nurturing personal relationships, one child at a time. Through our programs we instill positive values and morals into the lives of children, help build a solid foundation for their future and inspire each child to make positive life choices and to choose to “do what’s right.” Everything we do is guided by our Faith, Hope and Love.  

In Canada, more than 1 in 7 children live in poverty: in Hamilton, it’s 1 in 4. For generations, poverty has stolen dreams and destroyed futures. At CityKidz, we think it’s time to change that, and we’re recruiting a dynamic frontline team of leaders who will work with us to help kids dream big dreams and reach their full potential.  

Role Overview:  

CityKidz is seeking Bus Driver volunteers to join our team! Bus Drivers are the point person to navigate throughout our communities, delivering children and volunteers to and/or from our CityKidz program center for fun, magic-filled experiences, all while maintaining a comfortable and secure journey.   

As a CityKidz Bus Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a full-sized school bus while adhering to all traffic and CityKidz requirements. Bus Drivers are well supported by a reliable, responsible crew of 4-6 Bus Team volunteers that engage with the kids during the journey, assist them with needs, and ensure a comfortable, fun journey for all. Bus Drivers are also supported by Bus Logistics volunteers, who ensure the safe arrival, loading and unloading of children at the arrival site. This position involves transporting kids, youth and volunteers to and from their homes to the main CityKidz Building, ensuring a comfortable and secure journey.  

All buses are CityKidz buses on site that are provided to Bus Drivers for use. All we need is You! 

Key Role Highlights:   

-Eliminate transportation barriers and connect kids from communities across Hamilton, making life changing experiences accessible for them, and encouraging them to dream BIG! 
-Gain experience driving a bus in Hamilton communities  
-Build relationships with kids, youth, families, and other volunteers   

Responsibilities:  

-Safely operate a bus while adhering to all traffic rules and regulations 
-Transport CityKidz and Youth to designated locations in a timely and safe manner 
-Ensure the safety and security of passengers  
-Adhere to outlined routes and schedules 
-Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure the bus is in proper working condition 
-Report any incidents, accidents, or mechanical issues to staff 

Who this Role is For: 

-Drivers of all backgrounds, desiring to share their skills in gifting transformational experiences to kids and youth, to cultivate endless possibilities!  

Skills & Qualifications:  

-Minimum age 25+ (required) 
-Valid C or B driver’s license (required) 
-We run a driver’s abstract for you, that must reflect a clean driving record (required) 
-Experience driving in Hamilton or surrounding cities (preferred) 
-Excellent driving skills and knowledge of traffic laws  
-Ability to handle stressful situations calmly and effectively 

Training: 

Training includes: Bus Drivers will be provided with training, including shadowing an experienced CityKidz driver and completing a test drive in a neighbourhood without any kids on the bus. 

Time Commitment:  

Time Commitment: Minimum two (2) seasons, equivalent to eight (8) months, for at least 1x a month, but preferably biweekly. Program sessions are seasonal; March – June and September-December on Wednesday evenings or Saturday days, and July-Aug on weekdays for Camp. *Availability is not required for all programming. Availability and interest will be discussed in the onboarding process 

Shifts: Saturday Bus Drivers: 7:30am-11:45am or 11:00am-3:15pm; Wednesday Bus Drivers: 5:30-7:00pm or 8:00-9:30pm  

Work Environment & Additional Details: 

Environment: Bus Drivers will be provided with a route. An average route consists of 25-30 household pickups and 20-40 kids. Bus Drivers are supported by Bus Team volunteers who will manage logistics of pick ups and drop offs. Bus Team volunteers will ride on the bus with the driver, pick each child up from their home, and drop them off at the end of the program session.  

Additional Details: We require a photocopy of drivers license, for the purpose of driver’s abstract reporting and for adding bus drivers to our insurance. 

Next Steps / How to Apply: 

Ready to make a difference? Take the first step in applying by signing up for an info session today through: www.citykidz.ca/volunteer 

Questions? We would love to hear from you! Email volunteer@citykidz.ca