Kids Theatre 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 caring and attentive volunteers to support children in grades 1–6 who attend our theatre program and are dropped off by a caregiver.

Kids Theatre Support Volunteers play an important relational and supervisory role before, during, and after the theatre experience. These volunteers help create a safe, welcoming environment where children feel seen, supported, and encouraged.

Before the theatre program begins, volunteers engage with children in the Volunteer Centre waiting area; facilitating activities and assisting with check-in procedures as needed. During the show, volunteers sit with the children, providing encouragement, and gentle behavioural guidance and support as needed. After the program, volunteers help to ensure a safe and organized dismissal to caregivers or bus routes.

This is an opportunity to build long-lasting relationships where kids can be truly known and loved through conversation, activities, and engagement with their communities. 

Key Role Highlights: 

-Engage in relationship building with kids and caregivers 

-Develop child relational support skills

-Opportunity for involvement in diverse volunteer roles and experiences

Responsibilities: 

-Welcome and supervise children in Grades 1–6 who are dropped off by caregivers

-Assist with walk-in sign-in procedures and confirm registration

-Engage children in activities in the waiting area prior to the theatre program

-Escort children safely to and from the theatre

-Sit with and actively support children during the show

-Provide kind, consistent behavioural guidance and redirection when needed

-Ensure safe and organized dismissal to caregivers or assigned bus routes

-Complete required documentation (sign-in sheets, communication forms, dismissal notes)

-Communicate clearly with Floor Managers and program leaders

-Follow all CityKidz safety and child protection procedures

-Provide support in other Saturday General Support areas as needed to ensure adequate coverage and maintain required program ratios (e.g., Hallway, Welcome Team, Volunteer Host, or First Aid if certified). Volunteers may decline if unavailable or uncomfortable serving in a specific area

Who this Role is for:

-Professionals, retirees, caregivers, students, or any individual who enjoys interacting with kids!

-Individuals who enjoy building positive connections with children and contributing to a structured, high-energy program environment.

Skills & Qualifications: 

-Minimum age 16+ (required)

-Relational and able to engage positively with kids and volunteers (required)

-Ability to lead by example through words and actions (required)

-Comfortable working in a high-energy, fast-paced environment (required)

-Experience working with children (volunteer or professional) is an asset

-Able to follow structured procedures and safety protocols

-Strong interpersonal skills

-Reliable, punctual, and consistent

Competencies & Attributes: 

-Warmth and approachability

-Patience and emotional awareness

-Confidence providing gentle correction and guidance

-Strong observational skills

-Calmness in busy or high-energy environments

-Responsibility and attention to detail

-Team-oriented mindset

-Positive and encouraging attitude

-Alignment with the mission and values of CityKidz

Training & Support:

-On-the-job training will be provided on your first shift

CityKidz Volunteer Community, Appreciation & Support: 

-Lifechanging impact & heartwarming moments

-250+ volunteers & 800+ kids & youth throughout the city!

-CityKidz apparel for all volunteers

-Lunch + snacks provided for all volunteers for Saturday programs

-Annual Volunteer Appreciation event

-Twice a year Volunteer Pancake Breakfast

-Verification of Volunteer Hours Signed off On

-Volunteer Years of Service Recognition

-Advancement Opportunities to Senior and Leadership Roles

-Child Abuse Awareness and Protection Training

-On the job and ongoing role trainings

-References provided on an individual case basis

-Flexibility and responsive collaborative communication

Time Commitment: 

-Time Commitment: Min four (4) months, but preferably two (2) seasons equivalent to (8) months. At least 1x a month but preferably biweekly Saturdays through March-June and September-December

-Shifts: 8:30am-11:00am or 12:00pm-2:30pm

Work Environment & Additional Details:

-Environment: on the bus, in the community, and in the theatre during productions

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