Opportunities From: Volunteer | YMCA of the North

1. Volunteer Overview: Join our team as a Volunteer School-Age Care (SAC) Program Support member and contribute to the enrichment of children's educational experiences and overall well-being. This role offers a dynamic opportunity to engage with school-aged children (K-6th grade) in a supportive environment, providing assistance with homework, supervising during field trips, and ensuring safety as a hallway monitor. By volunteering with us, you will play a vital role in fostering a positive and nurturing atmosphere for children to learn, grow, and thrive.

2. 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.

Field Trips

Accompany children on field trips to various educational and recreational destinations, ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the excursion.

Assist with coordinating group activities and supervising children during outings.

Engage children in learning opportunities and encourage exploration of new environment.

Program Support

Assist with the setup and cleanup of program areas, ensuring materials and supplies are organized and accessible for daily activities.Support staff in supervising children during free play, group activities, and transitions, maintaining a safe and positive environment.Help with the preparation and facilitation of enrichment activities, games, and crafts, encouraging active participation and creativity among children.

Hallway Monitor

Monitor hallway activity to ensure a safe and orderly environment during transitions between classrooms, activities, and outdoor play. Provide gentle reminders to children regarding behavior expectations and adherence to program policies. Serve as a friendly and approachable presence for students, offering assistance or guidance when necessary.

3. Qualifications:

Passion for working with children and supporting their academic and social development. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact positively with children, staff, and parents/guardians of diverse backgrounds Patience, flexibility, and a nurturing demeanor when assisting children or providing guidance. Reliability and punctuality, with a commitment to fulfilling volunteer responsibilities. Prior experience in tutoring, childcare, or education is preferred but not required.

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

6.  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.