Volunteer Host

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 and passionate individuals to join our team as Volunteer Hosts. Volunteer Hosts play a vital role in creating a welcoming, supportive, and connected environment for all volunteers. They ensure that new and returning volunteers feel valued, informed, and know that they are an integral part of the team from the moment they arrive.

As a Volunteers Host, you will be the first point of contact for volunteers during CityKiz program days, setting the tone for the volunteer experience by offering guidance, encouragement, and care. You deliver orientation, provide hospitality, answer questions, and help to build a sense of community that empowers volunteers to serve effectively.

Key Role Highlights:  

• Build valuable leadership and communication skills
• Make a true difference through human connection
• Be part of an uplifting, high-energy team

Responsibilities: 

• Warmly welcome to new and returning volunteers, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and connected
• Guide new volunteers to their designated locations and introduce them to their captains, team members
• Deliver orientation support to new volunteers (walk through information packages, provide vests, answer questions, provide a quick tour as needed)
• Encourage conversation and ensure that no one feels left out; watch for anyone who looks lost, overwhelmed, uncomfortable, or unsure of their place
• Offer encouragement and recognize volunteers’ efforts
• Be a point of contact for basic information (where supplies are, who to go to for issues), directing bigger questions to staff or coordinators
• Guide volunteers to refreshments, ensuring that the hospitality table is stocked and common areas are tidy
• Ask new and long-term volunteers how their experience is going and share feedback, questions, or challenges with staff

Who this Role is for:

• Professionals, retirees, caregivers, students, or any individual who enjoys interacting with kids!
• Individuals with a warm heart, and a caring, supportive manner
• Those who desire to inspire kids to dream big

Skills & Qualifications: 

• Minimum age 16+ (required)
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Alert, with great judgment and ability to take initiative
• Customer service or volunteer engagement experience an asset
• Familiarity with CityKidz and its different spaces throughout the building OR willingness to familiarize oneself with them
• Effective communication skills to engage and support volunteers and staff members, providing clear instructions and conveying empathy and care

Competencies & Attributes: 

• Outgoing, friendly and welcoming
• Comfortable initiating conversations and connecting with people
• Good communicator and attentive listener
• Passionate about fostering belonging and community

Training & Support:

• On-the-job training will be provided on your first shift
• You will be paired with experienced Welcome Team volunteers to help guide you and integrate you into our community

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: Minimum two (2) seasons, equivalent to eight (8) months, for at least 1x a month, but preferably biweekly. Saturdays through March – June and September- December
• Shifts: 7:20 am- 9:20am or 10:15am-12:15pm

Work Environment & Additional Details:

• Environment: Friendly, welcoming indoor environment greeting volunteers - directly in the action!

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