CityYouth Support 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 dedicated individuals to join our CityYouth team as Support Volunteers. This role involves providing needed support behind the scenes in Tech Support, Clean Up or Hallway Support.  You will have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of youth as you ensure safety and foster a positive environment within our facility.  

During your shift as a CityYouth Support Volunteer, you will have the opportunity to provide much needed support to ensure the CityYouth programs run smoothly, the youth are safe, and the environment stays clean and tidy. 

Support Roles include: 

- Food Setup and Service: Assist with setup and serving of youth pizza meal. 5:30pm-6:45pm 
- Hallway Support: Monitor hallways during group activities, directing and re-directing youth as needed, and helping maintain a safe and focused environment. 6:45pm–8:15pm 
- Tech Support: Support CityYouth presentations by clicking slides and adjusting sound and lights. Work is performed at heights. Task-specific training is provided. 6:30–8:15pm 
- Food and Space Clean up: Ensure clean-up of pizza meal is complete and kitchen is sanitized. 7:10pm-8:30pm 

Key Role Highlights:   

- Be a role model and a caring, trusted presence 
- Play a big role behind the scenes 
- Be a supportive person to staff and youth 

Responsibilities:  

- Engage with young people in a positive and supportive manner, fostering a safe and inclusive environment 
- Provide support to staff behind the scenes to ensure the CityYouth nights run smoothly  
- Uphold and promote the organization's values, policies, and goals while interacting with youth and other volunteers 

Who this Role is For: 

- Retirees, professionals, caregivers, or anyone who enjoys interacting with kids and youths 
- Individuals with a warm heart, and a caring, supportive manner 

Skills & Qualifications:  

- Minimum age 21+ (required) 
- Experience working in a youth-based environment (preferred) 
- High level of common sense and strong decision-making skills 
- Ability to work well under pressure and take initiative 
- Good judgment and evaluation skills to assess the needs of youth and how to come alongside them 

Competencies & Attributes:  

- Ability to take initiative 
- Ability to remain calm and composed in stressful or challenging situations 
- Patience, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude 
- Competent and confident 
- Organized 

Training & Support: 

- Tour and training manual provided alongside semi-annual seasonal training and refresher training 
- On-the-job training will be provided on your first shift   

Time Commitment:  

- Time Commitment: Minimum two (2) seasons, equivalent to eight (8) months, for at least 3x a month, but preferably weekly  
- Shifts: Wednesdays through March – June and September- December. Shifts: Food Setup and Food Service: 5:30-6:45 Hallway 6:15pm-8:15pm; Tech Support 6:30pm-8:15pm; Food Cleanup 7:00pm-8:30pm 

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