Community Engagement Volunteer

FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERVICES OF THE WATERLOO REGION

Volunteer Position/Assignment Description

Title: Community Engagement Volunteer

Risk Rating: Medium Risk

Goal of the Position: The Community Engagement Volunteer assists the Community Engagement team with outreach efforts to actively engage community centres and local organizations to share information about the programs and services available at the Family Centre*. This role supports Agency employees with ongoing outreach to communities served by FACS Waterloo.

* The Family Centre is a community hub made up of multiple organizations that provide resources and support for children, youth and families. Under one roof, the Family Centre offer programs related to parenting, mental health, child development and skills building for youth and other social or recreational programs. It is connected to Family & Children’s Services Waterloo to provide accessible, coordinated services to support families in a welcoming environment.

Responsibilities:

• Gather information about community centres and local organizations.
• Visit Community Centres and local organizations to distribute information about programs and services at the Family Centre.
• Support events as directed by the Community Engagement team.
• Gather feedback from community members during events to help improve our programs and services.
• Use an equity lens with a respectful and inclusive approach.
• Be punctual and reliable.
• Be respectful of the privacy of children, youth and families, at all times.
• Reflect the agency’s core values.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong verbal, interpersonal and communication skills
• Personable skills such as curiosity, honesty, warmth, sensitivity and consistency
• Ability to communicate effectively and build relationships with diverse groups of people
• Experience working independently and as part of a team
• Experience working with the Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• General awareness of the child welfare system an asset
• Knowledge of community resources and how to access them an asset

Additional Requirements:

• Vulnerable Sector Check (police check) and internal agency record check
• Complete volunteer onboarding process and participate in in-person/online training
• Work within the policies, procedures, and practices of FACS Waterloo
• Minimum age 18

Length of Commitment:

This position requires a minimum 3-month commitment for an average of 2-4 hours per week. Onsite work is required. Position commitment is subject to renewal and extension by agreement from both parties.

Benefits:

• Contribute to community outreach efforts that connect families with valuable programs and services
• Gain experience in community engagement, outreach, and relationship-building with local organizations
• Develop and strengthen communication and active listening skills
• Expand knowledge of community resources and how they support children, youth and families
• Increase understanding of equity, diversity and inclusion in community-based work
• Receive training, ongoing support and supervision from FACS Waterloo staff
• Have opportunities to build your network and gain future references
• Receive recognition and appreciation for your contributions to supporting families in the community

Staff Contact:

Oluwakemi Aderibigbe

Director of Community Engagement and Prevention