Recreation, Community Services and Special Events


55+ Social Drop-in Program


Help older adults enjoy regular social connections in our recreation centres! Duties include preparing light refreshments, sharing community resources, and facilitating games, activities, and conversations. There are two positions available: Social Program Host and Social Program Helper. 

Responsibilities of Social Program Host:

  • Help other volunteers sign in and out for their shifts
  • Monitor use of program supplies and inform staff when inventory is low
  • Lead by example in creating an inclusive environment
  • Document and report conflicts/challenges/successes to staff in a timely manner
  • Other social program duties, as listed below

Responsibilities of Social Program Helper:

  • Prepare the program room by:
    • setting up tables and chairs
    • preparing coffee/tea/snacks
    • setting up activities
    • putting out attendance list and nametags
  • Greet participants by name as they arrive
  • Facilitate new participants by:
    • Introducing them to ongoing participants
    • Asking them questions
    • Exploring the activities together
    • Inviting them to come back
  • Promote a welcoming environment by:
    • Connecting with all participants equally
    • Ensuring the space remains accessible and welcoming to all
  • Relay feedback/questions to Social Program Host
  • Close the program room by:
    • putting away activities
    • put refreshments away
    • dispose of compost and garbage
    • wash dishes (dishwasher available)
    • wipe counters and tables after use

Qualifications:

  • 19 years old or older
  • Friendly, patient, and empathetic
  • Genuinely interested in interacting with older adults
  • Committed to creating a welcoming space for all
  • Able to work independently with limited on-site supervision
  • Proficient with spoken English (other language skills are an asset)
  • Willing to complete a Police Information Check

Commitment and schedule:

Programs run once per week for two hours. We ask that Social Program Hosts commit for a minimum of one year and Social Program Helpers commit for a minimum of four months. Of course, we can accommodate appointments and vacations with advance notice. We're recruiting volunteers for the following programs:

  • Mondays from 9:45am - 11:45am at Saanich Commonwealth Place
  • Tuesdays from 12:45pm - 2:45pm at Gordon Head Recreation Centre
  • Wednesdays from 9:15am - 11:45am at G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre
  • Fridays from 12:45pm - 3:15pm at Cedar Hill Recreation Centre

Working Conditions:  

This program occurs indoors. Volunteers will be in close proximity with others and will need to sit, stand, and move around during the program. This role may involve working independently or with another volunteer (staff is always available if needed).

Application Process:  

  • Create a volunteer profile online (10-15 minutes)
  • Participate in an informal interview
  • Complete a free Police Information Check and online Child/Vulnerable Persons training module
  • Submit paperwork: Waiver, Code of Conduct, and (optional) Photo/Video Release 
  • Attend an onsite orientation (30 minutes) and Older Adults Programming orientation (3 hours)

Questions? Contact:

Lindsay Mackas-Burns
Programmer 1: Events, Volunteers & Film
volunteer@saanich.ca
250-475-5502