District of Saanich

Drop-In Volunteering is a great way to try the Pulling Together Program. Drop-in volunteers do not need to apply online but must sign a liability waiver at each event. There are teams of active Pulling Together volunteers in more than 40 different parks and natural areas, so there are many opportunities to try. Volunteers work on high rocky outcrops, creek side forests, wetlands, wildflower meadows and waterways. Drop-In Volunteers work alongside and under the supervision of Lead Stewards and Saanich Staff to ensure that volunteer work is done in accordance with the restoration work plan and adheres to relevant Saanich polices and restoration Best Management Practices (BMPs).

Time Commitment

• work parties usually run for 2 hours on various days of the week. Drop-in during a work party to help out.

Duties and Responsibilities

• perform restoration activities in compliance with restoration work plan and Best Management Practices (BMPs), including invasive species removal, planting of native species, spreading mulch, watering, care of trees, etc.
• follow all Saanich policies and procedures, particularly safety, and share in ensuring safety procedures are followed
• consult Lead Steward or Staff on new approaches or ideas

Skills and Requirements

• A love of the outdoors and supporter of parks
• Willingness to work in various weather conditions and get dirty
• Physical fitness and ability to work on uneven terrain
• Ability to work well with others and at ease taking direction
• Sign a liability waiver each time you attend an event

Training and Benefits

• No application needed!
• Check out our calendar of events(parks) to find an upcoming work  party to attend. Click on the name of the event to get more information on the volunteer meeting location for that event
• On the day of the event,
  • please wear sturdy, closed toed footwear, and old clothes that can get dirty.
  • bring water to drink, work gloves, and loppers or pruners, if you have them.

• Note: Events may be cancelled due to snow, extreme rain, high winds, or unforeseen circumstances.
• If you would like to bring a group (four or more) to participate in our events, please contact us in advance to ensure we have enough tools.

Parks Seeking Volunteers

Events Calendar for Current Opportunities

Lead Stewards play a key role in the Pulling Together Volunteer Program. This hands-on, inclusive, ecological restoration program has been in place since 1999. We have teams of active Pulling Together volunteers in more than 40 different parks and natural areas.

The Lead Steward is the project leader for a given restoration site and liaises with Saanich Parks staff on a regular basis. The Lead Steward welcomes, trains and supervises other volunteers and ensures all work is done in compliance with Saanich policies and guidelines. The Lead Steward plays a public role, acting as an ambassador for Saanich Parks at work parties, informing the public about restoration activities, park conservation and the Pulling Together Volunteer Program.

Parks Seeking Lead Stewards

• Goward Park
• PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park)

Time Commitment

A minimum of one year and preferably multiple years.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. General

• work with staff to plan and schedule work parties and ensure all work has been approved by staff
• perform restoration activities in compliance with the restoration work plan, including invasive species removal, planting of native species, spreading mulch/chips, watering, care of trees, etc.
• welcome, train, supervise and mentor other volunteers
• ensure all volunteers have signed a waiver and been trained in safe practices and are aware of risks before beginning work on site
• display a sign in the work area during restoration activities, use cones or flagging tape to mark hazards to volunteers and park visitors
• liaise with Saanich Parks staff to report debris piles for pick-up, coordinate the loan of special equipment (e.g. weed wrench)
• engage with park visitors to educate about park conservation, ecological restoration, and the Pulling Together Volunteer Program

2. Administrative:

• work with staff to develop a restoration plan for the site
• liaise with Saanich Parks staff to update restoration plans, discuss proposed changes to methods or new work, and for guidance on ecological and technical expertise
• attend meetings and trainings with other Pulling Together volunteers
• collect signed waiver forms and maintain in a secure place until submitted to staff
• report volunteer hours

Skills and Requirements

• well-developed leadership and organizational skills
• good interpersonal skills – diplomatic, clear communicator, etc., willing to converse with park visitors and help educate them about park conservation
• a love of the outdoors and supporter of parks
• willingness to work in most weather conditions and get dirty
• physical fitness and ability to work on uneven terrain
• ability to take and give direction

Training and Benefits

• Pulling Together Volunteer Program orientation and supplies
• other training/workshops as required/available or requested
• training and recognition events
• ability to make a difference in your parks, work outdoors and network with others who care about parks and protecting at-risk species and ecosystems
• opportunity to develop ecosystem restoration, leadership skills and fitness

Getting Involved

• complete an application by clicking on the blue "Fill in an Application" button, creating an account, and completing the application form

We look forward to having you join our Parks Volunteer Team!

Recruitment is currently closed. In the meantime, you are still welcome to apply; we will make note of your interest and contact you when recruitment reopens.

Park Ambassadors are volunteers who walk in PKOLS park on a regular basis with the purpose of greeting park visitors, offering information and answering questions about the park and helping visitors understand their role in helping to protect the park. They also provide helpful feedback to Saanich Parks by observing, recording and reporting on defined issues and by recording their activities. Park Ambassadors are expected to maintain a high level of service in parks, trails and open spaces. They foster positive relationships with park visitors through information, education and role modeling, and record and report concerns to Saanich Parks.

Commitment

• reliable transportation to and from the park
• able to make a minimum commitment of one season (May - September 2023) (Longer term opportunities may be available)
• able to commit to visiting the park once per week (1-2 hours each visit)
• support the goals of the project 
• agree to adhere to Saanich polices, guidelines and direction 
• access to a personal cell phone is recommended

Duties and Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities

• visit PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park) once a week for approximately 1-2 hours at varying times from dawn to dusk, to interact with a range of park visitors
• answer questions from visitors regarding PKOLS and other Saanich parks and trails
• give directions and provide information about natural and cultural history
• educate visitors about park etiquette and bylaws with the goal of voluntary compliance
• observe, record and submit observations and interactions on a monthly basis.
• report any defined serious matters (i.e. incidents) to Saanich Parks immediately
• report volunteer hours to Saanich Parks 
• attend meetings and/or training as required

Optional Responsibilities

• collect small amounts of garbage and deposit into garbage cans (larger or hazardous items are reported to Parks) 
• assist in training new volunteers
• assist Saanich Parks with special events, community events or permitted activities in the park

Skills and Requirements

• resourceful, reliable and responsible with an ability to work alone
• willing to learn 
• strong and diplomatic interpersonal skills with an ability to comfortably relay information to others and to diffuse conflicts
• a minimum of 19 years of age (unless accompanied by parent or guardian) 
• good physical and mental health
• ability to use sound judgement
• some natural and/or cultural history knowledge an asset 
• ability to provide two personal references
• willingness to:
  • follow the guidelines, decisions and direction of Saanich Parks
  • wear Park Ambassador volunteer identification while on duty
  • undertake and pass a Criminal Record Check
  • work in varied weather conditions

Training and Benefits

• training about PKOLS, Saanich Parks and some natural and cultural history 
• a letter of recognition verifying your volunteer hours and role 
• training and recognition
• opportunity to:
  • help to improve the visitor experience
  • contribute to your community  
  • share your knowledge and experience with park visitors
  •  meet like-minded people and share your love of the park  
  • maintain and build fitness
  • be part of a larger plan to protect park values

Getting Involved

• Please Note: Our next intake of Park Ambassador Volunteers for PKOLS ( Mount Douglas Park) will be spring 2024. Please connect back with us then.
• Please join us in the meantime as a Drop-in volunteer with our Pulling Together Program. Opportunities are found can be found on our webiste: Saanich Parks Pulling Together Volunteer Events | District of Saanich  No registration needed, just meet at the start time and location provided!
• complete an application by clicking on the blue "Fill in an Application" button, creating an account, and completing the application form

Help Saanich celebrate the coming of fall at Autumn Lantern Festival at Gordon Head Recreation Centre and Lambrick Park on Saturday, September 14! This free, family-friendly event will feature cultural entertainment, lantern displays, food, information and activity booths, a lantern-making workshop and other seasonal activities. We are seeking volunteers to help prepare for the event, and on event day!

Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities:

• Materials Prep:
  Volunteer from the comfort of your home and on your own schedule. The main project is assembling lantern-making kits for use on event night. Other tasks may include cutting, tracing, gluing, simple sewing, testing batteries, and more. Completed work should be returned by September 12. 
  
• Lantern Ambassador:
  Bring the Autumn Lantern Festival to life! You'll be part of a festive promenade around the site. Depending on needs and availability, you may carry a portable lantern, wear an illuminated cape or costume, or help guide visitors around the site. In this role, you'll also help keep things sparkling by animating the site, helping answer visitor questions, and giving visitors friendly reminders about how they can interact respectfully with all the other lanterns and displays. When the event is over, you will help collect and put away lanterns and displays for the last 30 minutes of your shift. Shift is Saturday, September 14 from 6:30pm - 9:00pm. 
  
  

Additional Responsibilities:

• Follow direction of staff
• Interact with staff, volunteers, and festival-goers in a friendly manner
• Wear comfortable, close-toed shoes and dress for the weather
• Report any hazards or incidents to staff

Qualifications:

• 15 years old or older
• Friendly and responsible
• Enjoys working with all ages
• Comfortable with crowds
• Able to lift at least 10lbs and up to 50lbs for some roles

Working Conditions:

Studio and Craft Station Helpers will work indoors and mostly be sitting and standing. Lantern Ambassadors and Installers will work mostly outdoors on grassy (sometimes uneven) terrain, and will mostly be walking around. 

Application Process:

• Create a volunteer profile online (5-10 minutes)
• Mention the role and shift you are interested in on your application
• Submit digital paperwork: Waiver, Code of Conduct, and (optional) Photo/Video Release 

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

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:

• Tuesdays from 12:45pm - 2:45pm at Gordon Head 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

The SpeakWell ESL English Conversation Program supports new immigrants, refugees, and other ESL learners in sharpening their English-speaking and comprehension skills. Volunteer facilitators lead conversations around a given topic, presented through established lesson plans and assists participants with pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary development, and listening skills.

Responsibilities: 

• Create a friendly, safe, enjoyable atmosphere and encourage people to discuss given topics.
• Assist individuals in conversation by providing feedback and guidance on pronunciation and vocabulary as well as directly teach pronunciation and vocabulary to small groups of participants.
• Answer questions and support participants' learning of conversational English.

Qualifications:

• 19 years old or older
• Friendly, outgoing, and enthusiastic.
• Interested in helping new immigrants, refugees and other ESL learners develop speaking skills to assist them to become active members of our community.
• Ability to assist learners with pronunciation, vocabulary development as well as some basic grammar points.
• Able to speak English fluently.
• Canadian Language Benchmarks – Stage III - Speaking – Benchmark 12 see Profile of Ability p. 70
• http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/pub/language-benchmarks.pdf
• Teaching English as a Second Language training and teaching experience an asset.
• Able to speak and understand additional languages is an asset.
• Willing to meet for an informal interview
• Willing to complete a Police Information Check

Commitment and Schedule:

One weekly shift on Saturday afternoons between 1:00 - 3:30pm. Program runs 1:30 - 3:00pm, with a half hour of prep and clean up on either side.  A 1-year commitment is ideal; a minimum commitment of 6 months is expected.

Working Conditions: 

Indoor. Requires sitting, standing, and moving around the room. Requires lifting up to 20lbs. Supervised.

Application Process:  

• Create a volunteer profile online (5-10 minutes)
• Observe a class and 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

Questions? Contact:

Derek Swallow
Program Coordinator
speakwellesl@gmail.com

or

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

Why a Conversation program? To:

• Increase participant’s comfort and confidence speaking English through interaction with patient, friendly facilitators and other group members within a relaxed, informal environment.
• Provide an inclusive environment where participant increase their verbal English fluency and comprehension, and enhance their English pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar skills.
• Provide a venue where immigrants deepen their relationship with the Saanich region by connecting with other community members, participating in community activities offered through Saanich’s Recreation centers, and hopefully meld so firmly with our community they willingly participate in community decision-making bodies such as regional boards.
• Promote cross-cultural understanding through activities that generate cross-cultural learning.

The Shadow Swim Instructor is responsible for observing and assisting the instruction of general recreational aquatics programs.  This volunteer position is intended for those who have certification or are in progress of completing co-teach hours.

Responsibilities:  

• Assist Swim Instructor with activities, as directed
• Welcome, engage and interact with participants
• Interact cooperatively with instructors
• Ensure participants are following the facility rules
• Ensure the facility and equipment is in safe, working condition

Qualifications:

• 15 years old or older
• Current certification as a Swim For Life Instructor with the Livesaving Society
• Enthusiastic, organized, and willing to learn
• Excellent communicator
• Enjoys working with children and able to hold appropriate boundaries when interacting with them
• Proficient in the English Language
• Willing to complete a Police Information Check

Commitment and Schedule:

Dependent on swimming lessons schedule.

Working Conditions:

Indoor pool facility. On dryland and in pool. Supervised by staff.

Contacts:

Gordon Head Recreation Centre

Tyler Smith
Programmer 1: Aquatics
Gordon Head Recreation Centre
tyler.smith@saanich.ca      

Shadow Lifeguards gain meaningful experience supervising the pool deck, assisting with First Aid, learning about equipment and deck set ups, meeting facility specific needs, working on activities to improve their skills as Lifeguards, and being part of a dynamic team. As supervisors mentor and evaluate their contributions, volunteers in this role may have the opportunity to become employed as Lifeguards with Saanich Recreation.

Responsibilities:

• Commit to regular shift attendance
• Attend an orientation session
• Assist with First Aid
• Welcome, engage, and interact with patrons and staff
• Supervise water and pool deck

Qualifications:

• 15 years old or older
• Current NL - Pool and Waterpark Option Awards
• Current Standard First Aid with CPR-C; AMOA
• Excellent communicator
• Enjoy working with children and able to hold appropriate boundaries when interacting with them
• Enthusiastic, organized, and willing to learn
• Proficient in the English Language
• Willing to complete a Police Information Check

Commitment and Schedule:

One Fun Swim shift per week (2-3 hours)

Contact:

Connor Reiter
Program Technician: Aquatics
Saanich Commonwealth Place
connor.reiter@saanich.ca
250-475-3502