Outreach Volunteer - Common Ground
Volunteer Title: Outreach Volunteer - Common Ground
Location: Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton
Reports To: Outreach Supervisor
Date of Revision: February 2026
Summary:
Common Ground supports adults with diverse needs and their aides or guardians in a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging environment. Volunteer will assist in facilitating social, recreational, and sensory-based activities that promote connection, confidence, and community participation.
This role focuses on building meaningful relationships, encouraging independence, and ensuring participants feel valued, respected, and supported. Volunteers help create a safe and positive atmosphere where adults of varying abilities can enjoy hands-on activities such as games, crafts, sensory stations, group discussions, and life-skills experiences.
Age requirement: 18+ (those with a background working with diverse needs preferred)
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
· Maintain a safe environment by following policies and procedures to manage risks associated with participation in programs
· Build relationships with the participants, their families and YMCA staff and volunteers
· Ensure safety, communication and a sense of belonging are high priorities
· Work collaboratively with other staff and volunteers
· Communicate with Outreach Supervisor regarding any situation during your shift
· Demonstrate patience, empathy, flexibility, and strong communication skills
· Work collaboratively with client’s aides to ensure participants’ physical, emotional, and social well-being
· Encourage social interaction and positive engagement
· Assist with setup and cleanup of program spaces
BENEFITS:
· Gain valuable practical experience in a leadership position
· Complimentary YMCA Calgary membership (upon completion of the probationary period and all required trainings)
· Continuing training and educations opportunities throughout the year (if applicable)
· Enhance technical skill set
· Join a team of enthusiastic and interesting people who share a passion for leading positive programs to build happy and healthy communities
TRAINING:
1. YBeginnings Orientation
2. Health & Safety and Child Protection Training
3. Position-specific Orientation and Training
a. Processes & Tools
b. Expectations
4. Ongoing training & support
SKILLS:
At YMCA Calgary we ensure our volunteers are a fit based on their strengths, interests, and future goals. The successful candidate will have the following:
1. Patience and emotional regulation in high-energy or challenging situations
2. Knowledge of inclusive programming and adaptive activities
3. Experience working with individuals with diverse abilities or developmental disabilities
QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Evidence of a clear Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
2. Three references – one can be personal reference
3. Able to attend and complete required YMCA trainings which may be at various YMCA locations
4. Available evenings and/or weekends if required
