Be the Spark that ignites the potential in people! At our YMCA, we believe in the power of people. Every day, our dedicated volunteers bring energy, positivity, and inclusivity to everything they do. Volunteers are an integral part of our team, donating their time, experience and talents to collectively work to ignite the potential in people.
We seek volunteers who are looking for opportunities to give back to their community, meet new people and gain new experiences. Apply now to become a valued member of our Volunteer Team and learn about the perfect opportunity for you!
About the Role:
The Childcare Gardening Attendant supports the development and maintenance of the childcare garden while encouraging children to explore nature through hands-on gardening activities. This volunteer role helps create a safe, engaging, and educational outdoor environment where children can learn about plants, healthy food, environmental stewardship, and teamwork.
Responsibilities:
- Assist with planting, watering, weeding, and maintaining garden beds.
- Support seasonal garden preparation, including soil care and harvesting.
- Help children participate in age-appropriate gardening activities.
- Encourage children's curiosity and learning about plants, insects, and the environment.
- Ensure gardening tools and materials are used safely and stored properly.
- Monitor garden areas for potential hazards and report concerns to childcare staff.
- Assist with garden clean-up and organization of gardening supplies.
- Support special gardening projects, nature-based activities, and outdoor learning experiences.
Qualifications:
- Minimum 15 years of age
- Positive and welcoming attitude – Friendly, patient, and respectful when interacting with children, families, and staff.
- Interest in working with children – Enjoys supporting children’s learning, play, and development in a safe and engaging environment.
- Strong communication skills – Able to listen, follow directions, and communicate respectfully with staff and children.
- Dependable and responsible – Reliable, punctual, and able to assist staff with daily routines and activities.
- Ability to work in a team environment – Willing to collaborate with educators and support a positive, inclusive childcare setting.
Why volunteer at our YMCA?
YMCA of Northern Alberta is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities. We are committed to helping our employees and volunteers reach their full potential and are recognized as a great place to work and volunteer. We offer meaningful opportunities to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities.
Joining the Y as a volunteer means contributing to over 100 years of providing opportunities for people to shine! Our Y serves tens of thousands of people each year through programs and services like health and fitness, licensed child care, day camps, mental health, employment and immigrant services, education and training, and services for youth, families and seniors.
Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Inclusion has power, and we take strides to create a diverse, inclusive workplace where everyone can belong. Diverse teams unleash new ideas, and employees thrive in a culture that recognizes and appreciates the unique perspectives and backgrounds of others. Through our differences in how we think and act we can form innovative and effective teams and deliver organizational success.
If we can make the recruitment process more accessible for you, please let us know when we reach out about a volunteer opportunity so we can work with you to accommodate your needs.
In keeping with our commitment to safety and child protection, all volunteers are required to provide a satisfactory Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector Check prior to their first shift and every three years thereafter.
