Community Connection 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 Community Connection volunteers to strengthen relationships with kids and families in the community, by going out in teams to the homes of registered CityKidz kids and families participating in our programs and forming meaningful connections. 

As a Community Connection volunteer, you will be part of an energetic, and highly rewarding team, as you encourage big dreams for children. This role is key to building relationships with children and their families and to providing information for the Saturday program, and/or other initiatives for CityKidz.    

Key Role Highlights:   

-Build relationships with kids and families, gaining a deeper understanding of each child 
-Gain an understanding of specific Hamilton communities  

Responsibilities:  

-Work in groups of two, alongside an experienced team member, to connect and build relationships with registered participants and families on a pre-set route, in your regular, assigned neighbourhood 
-Assist, through words and actions, in teaching children the messages presented at CityKidz 
- Provide program information and updates to registered families 
-Potential to grow into a community connection leadership role 
-Follow CityKidz Policies and Procedures regarding Home Visits 
-Be an ambassador of faith, hope and love in the Hamilton Community 

Who this Role is For: 
-Students, retirees, caregivers, or anyone who enjoys interacting with kids and youths 
-Those aspiring to human support-centered personal and professional endeavours 
-Anyone who likes to stay active 

Skills & Qualifications:  
-Minimum age 16+ (required) 
-Ability to lead by example through your words and actions (required) 
-Experience working with children (preferred) 
-From the Hamilton Area (preferred) 
-A passion for children to overcome barriers in their life and to dream big dreams 
-Must be responsible and a good role model  
-Experience with social service work or a caring profession an asset 
-Experience with recruiting or talking to new families an asset 
-Mentoring experience an asset  
-Experience working with diverse communities an asset 
-Multiple Languages an asset 
-Access to a reliable vehicle an asset 
-Individual who is comfortable with walking 

Competencies & Attributes:  

-Friendly personality, with excellent interpersonal skills to engage with kids, families, and other volunteers 
-Adaptable 
-Humble persona, high level of integrity 
-High level of common sense and alertness 
-Strong ambassador of faith, hope and love 

Training & Support: 

Training includes: Training videos with an introduction to the role, on-the-job training with a seasoned volunteer, access to an on-call supervisor for support while out in the community. 

Time Commitment:  

-Time Commitment: Minimum eight (8) month commitment is required, for at least 1x biweekly but preferably weekly through January-December 

-Shifts: Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday for two (2) hours, between 3:00pm-7:00pm 

Work Environment & Additional Details: 

-Environment: On average, volunteers may spend up to 90 minutes walking or drive up to 5 km in a neighbourhood during visits. Routes may vary.   

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.