Opportunities From: Volunteer | YMCA of the North

1.  Volunteer Summary

You can make a difference in the lives of young people by volunteering to work with youth in your community!  You will help our staff team with programs, interacting with youth and helping us to ensure a positive, nurturing environment.  You will be responsible for assisting in our out-of-school time program, which includes providing excellent customer service in a safe, enjoyable, and positive atmosphere that promotes member and program participant safety and satisfaction in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. 

2.  General Responsibilities

Volunteers may support in the following areas based on interest, need, and fit:

Academic Enrichment:

Provide homework assistance and tutoring to students, helping them understand concepts and complete assignments in various subjects.Facilitate academic enrichment activities, such as reading groups, math games, or science experiments, to enhance learning beyond the classroom.Encourage the development of effective study habits, organizational skills, and a positive attitude toward learning through personalized support and guidance

Group Facilitation:

Lead or assist with the facilitation of enrichment groups or workshops on topics of interest to teens, such as arts and crafts, music, sports, leadership development, or career exploration. Create a supportive and inclusive environment where teens can express themselves, develop new skills, and connect with peers who share similar interests. Encourage participation, creativity, and collaboration among group members.

Field Trips:

Plan and coordinate engaging and educational field trips to local attractions, cultural institutions, and recreational venues. Supervise teens during outings, ensuring their safety, adherence to rules, and respectful behavior. Facilitate learning experiences and encourage exploration and reflection during field trip activities.

General Program Support:

Assist program staff in monitoring all youth in after school programs. Assist with the setup and cleanup of program spaces, ensuring that materials and resources are organized and accessible. Help promote and publicize program activities and events to teens and their families through various channels. Collaborate with program staff and fellow volunteers to brainstorm ideas, plan activities, and evaluate program effectiveness. Help with preparations for after school activities such as handing out snacks and taking attendance  Engage in activities set out for participants to keep youth interested  Follow all procedures and policies of the department, branch and Association 

3.  Qualifications

Minimum age of 18

Genuine interest in working with teenagers and supporting their personal and academic growth.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with teens from diverse backgrounds and build positive relationships.

Patience, empathy, and a nonjudgmental attitude when providing academic assistance or facilitating group activities.

Reliability, flexibility, and a willingness to adapt to the evolving needs of the program and its participants.

Prior experience in tutoring, youth mentoring, education, or youth development is desirable but not required.

Dedicated to member safety and the Y mission and philosophy

4. Requirements

Volunteer ApplicationFace-to-Face InterviewCriminal Background CheckReference CheckSigned Code of ConductCompletion of New Volunteer Orientation (NVO)CPR & First Aid certification (paid by the YMCA)

5. Time Commitment

Volunteers are typically needed for a minimum of two to four hours per week, with flexibility based on individual availability and program needs. Opportunities may also arise for additional involvement during field trips or special events.

6. Benefits

Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children by providing academic support, mentorship, and encouragement. Gain valuable experience in education, youth development, and community engagement. Build positive relationships with children, staff, and fellow volunteers in a collaborative and supportive environment. Enhance your communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills through hands-on experience and interaction with diverse populations.

7. Additional Notes

This volunteer opportunity represents the primary needs identified at this time but is not intended to be all-inclusive. The volunteer will also be responsible for taking direction from the Program Director, Branch Executive or other designated YMCA team member.. 

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Pledge 

The Y of the North is committed to the work and everyday practices of eliminating disparities and eradicating of unjust systems to become a multicultural, anti-racist and anti-oppressive organization. YMCA of the North team members and volunteers must exemplify the association’s mission, vision and values of caring, equity, honesty, respect and responsibility.  

The YMCA of the North continues to develop plans and strategies to ensure team members and volunteers reflect the demographics of the communities we serve. We will continually conduct institutional racism and oppression review of our policies, procedures and practices in recruitment and selection; compensation and benefits; professional development and training; promotions; transfers; layoffs; terminations; and the ongoing development of a multicultural, anti-racist and anti-oppressive work environment and culture that promotes equity and respect for the human dignity of all. We value and respect this diversity and choose to be inclusive through our acceptance of all. 

An opportunity for our community and North Community Members to support and volunteer with our youth at Harold Mezile. Are you passionate about nature, sustainability, and creating a vibrant green space? We have the perfect opportunity for you! Join our greenhouse team as a volunteer and be a part of something truly special.

1.  Volunteer Summary:  

You will help our staff maintain the greenhouse and outdoor gardens. This volunteer opportunity also includes being part of a positive atmosphere that promotes team member and program participant safety and satisfaction in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. Volunteers should come prepared with comfortable work clothing and a water bottle.  We provide gloves and tools.

2.  Volunteer General Responsibilities:  

Assist the Staff with seasonal responsibilities, such as: Planting, weeding, and maintaining garden beds Watering plants and ensuring proper irrigation Composting and waste management Harvesting and packaging produce  Participate in community events and workshops Collaborate with fellow volunteers and share gardening tips Assess and optimize the functionality of various spaces, from community centers to homes, to maximize their potential. Declutter - participate in decluttering initiatives to create organized and aesthetically pleasing environments. Follow all procedures and policies of the branch and association.   

3.  Volunteer Qualifications/Requirements: 

Minimum age: 16 Dedicated to member safety and the Y mission and philosophy Ability to read, interpret instructions and procedures, and follow-through with instructions to job completion.  Verbal and written communication skills.  Volunteer application  Criminal background check  Signed code of conduct  Completion of online New Volunteer Orientation (NVO)   

 

4.  Physical Demands:  

Ability to perform tasks outdoors in seasonal elements and conditions.  Perform essential maintenance in greenhouse, outdoor fields, and wash and pack areas which may involve, but not limited to the following activities: semi – reaching to full-reach overhead; crouching; kneeling; shoveling and pulling; working in narrow and/or confining spaces; twisting of the waist, shoulders, and legs.  

5.  Additional Notes:  

This volunteer opportunity represents the primary needs identified at this time but is not intended to be all-inclusive. The volunteer will also be responsible for taking direction from their supervisor or other designated YMCA team member. 

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Pledge  

The Y of the North is committed to the work and everyday practices of eliminating disparities and eradicating of unjust systems to become a multicultural, anti-racist and anti-oppressive organization. YMCA of the North team members and volunteers must exemplify the association’s mission, vision and values of caring, equity, honesty, respect and responsibility.  

The YMCA of the North continues to develop plans and strategies to ensure team members and volunteers reflect the demographics of the communities we serve. We will continually conduct institutional racism and oppression review of our policies, procedures and practices in recruitment and selection; compensation and benefits; professional development and training; promotions; transfers; layoffs; terminations; and the ongoing development of a multicultural, anti-racist and anti-oppressive work environment and culture that promotes equity and respect for the human dignity of all. We value and respect this diversity and choose to be inclusive through our acceptance of all.