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                                             YMCA Calgary Volunteer Position

Volunteer Title: Planet Youth Volunteer

Location: Calgary

Reports To: Edore Ossai or Camille Losier

Date of Revision: January 16, 2025

Note:

This role has an age requirement of 18 years and above. This role has multiple positions available.

Summary:

Planet Youth Calgary is a prevention model, proven to reduce substance use rates amongst young people and positively impact other areas of their lives. The Planet Youth model relies on a collaborative effort from our entire community to be successful—local youth, parents, caregivers, teachers, schools, communities, agencies, governments, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners. Incorporating Indigenous parallel processes and perspectives throughout the development of Planet Youth will help ensure we are honouring Indigenous ways, while taking important steps towards reconciliation. The goal of Planet Youth Calgary is to support the well-being and resilience of local youth, empowering them to live their best life.

Planet Youth Calgary has started Youth Councils in Shawnessy and Thorncliffe/Huntington Hills. The Youth Councils are free for 12–18-year-olds who live and/or go to school in the neighbourhoods surrounding Shawnessy and Thorncliffe/Huntington Hills. The Youth Councils provide a safe space for youth to share their ideas and lead positive change in their community. The Youth Councils follow the school calendar.

Volunteers will support directly with the Youth Council in Shawnessy or Thorncliffe/Huntington Hills. Priority will be given to volunteers who live in the neighbourhoods surrounding Shawnessy or Thorncliffe/Huntington Hills.

Time Commitment:

This role will follow the school calendar; Youth Councils will not occur during the summer break (July- August).

Shawnessy: approx. 5 hours per month; 2 hours bi-weekly on Thursdays from 4:00-6:00pm and an additional hour per month for administrative duties and planning meetings.

Thorncliffe/Huntington Hills: 2 hours per month; details will be provided later.

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

Health and Safety

1. Maintain a safe environment by following YMCA Calgary policies and procedures.

2. Build relationships with members, participants, and YMCA staff and volunteers.

3. Communicate with YMCA Staff regarding any situations during your volunteer shift.

Program Support

1. Ensure safety, communication, and a sense of belonging are high priorities.

2. Manage risks associated with participation in programs.

3. Support the development of the Youth Councils by offering guidance, leadership, and oversight of the program outline and activities.

Skills

1. Interest in engaging youth (12-18 years-old) with fun, interactive activities.

2. Previous experience working with youth is preferred.

3. Physical ability to lift and carry equipment to assist with set-up and take-down at events.

4. Comfortable working without direct supervision.

Benefits

1. Develop practical leadership skills.

2. Ongoing support and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

1. Current active volunteer status with YMCA Calgary.

2. Current Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector Search.

3. Education or certification in youth engagement will be considered an asset.

Orientation and Training

1. Orientation to Planet Youth Calgary and the Icelandic Prevention Model.