Volunteer with the District of Saanich

As a Park Ambassador, you would walk through PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park) on a regular basis to welcome visitors, and answer questions, and share interesting park info to help others understand how they can protect and care for this special place. You would also provide helpful feedback to Saanich Parks by observing, recording and reporting on defined issues. All volunteers will receive training including some natural and cultural history. 

Responsibilities:

• Visit PKOLS once per week for 1-2 hours when the park is open (dawn to dusk)
• Give directions
• Provide information about natural and cultural history
• Educate visitors about park etiquette and bylaws, with the goal of voluntary compliance
• Answer other questions about PKOLS and other Saanich parks and trails
• Record and submit your volunteer hours, including feedback (observations and interactions) on a monthly basis
• Report any serious incidents immediately to Saanich Parks
• Attend meetings and/or training as required
• Optional responsibilities include:
  • collecting and disposing of litter
  • helping train new volunteers
  • assisting Saanich Parks with special events or permitted activities held in the park

Qualifications:

• 19 years old or older (unless accompanied by a parent or guardian)
• Resourceful, reliable, and comfortable volunteering independently
• Strong interpersonal skills (diplomatic, clear communicator)
• Physically fit enough to walk through the park safely
• Comfortable being outside in a variety of weather conditions
• Supportive of the Park Ambassador program's goals
• Willing to follow direction of staff and Saanich policies and guidelines
• Able to transport yourself to and from the park
• Some natural and cultural history knowledge an asset
• Willing to complete a free background check with Vulnerable Sector Search

Commitment and Schedule

Visiting the park at least once per week for a minimum of one season (May - September). The next group of volunteers will be oriented to the program in May 2026.

Benefits

• Receive training about PKOLS, Saanich Parks, and some natural and cultural history
• Be part of a larger plan to protect Saanich parks
• Give back to your community
• Maintain and build physical fitness
• Meet like-minded people and share your love of PKOLS

Application Process:

• Create a volunteer profile online (10-15 minutes). To start, click the blue "Fill in an application" button on the righthand side of this page.
• Sign paperwork: Waiver, Code of Conduct, and (optional) Photo/Video Release.
• Participate in an interview with the Parks Stewardship Coordinator
• Complete a free background check with Vulnerable Sector Search