Youth Outreach Volunteer - Adaptive Programs Practicum

Volunteer Title: Adaptive Programs Practicum Student

Location: Saddletowne YMCA

Reports To: Outreach Supervisor

Date of Revision: 08-1-2025

Note: This role has an age requirement of 18 years.

Summary

As a practicum student under the guidance of the Outreach Supervisor and Youth Supervisor, you will play a vital role in delivering engaging and impactful drop-in programs for those who desire adaptive and inclusive programs. You will have the opportunity to work directly with all abilities accessing our YMCA, fostering a sense of respect, belonging, learning, and fun through a variety of activities.

 

Time Commitment

Afternoon, evenings and some weekends.

 

Duties and Responsibilities

Health and Safety

  1. Maintain a safe environment by following YMCA Calgary policies and procedures.
  2. Ensure the equipment is clean and safe and report damaged equipment to YMCA staff.
  3. Build relationships with members, participants, YMCA staff and volunteers.
  4. Communicate with YMCA Staff regarding any situations during your volunteer shift.

Program Support

  1. Assist in facilitating drop-in sensory time (use of sensory kits, set up sensory cart, and put out equipment) and inclusive gym activities such as badminton, soccer, and basketball. This includes set-up, takedown, and facilitating activities with everyone.

Leadership Development

  1. Create activity plans and facilitate it for individuals or with a group. Creating inclusive adaptations that are fun and flexible for all abilities.

Community Engagement

  1. Build positive relationships with adult day program participants and support staff, children, youth and families, by creating a welcoming and inclusive environment through fun activities, and interactive learning.

Project Opportunities

  1. Develop activity plans for inclusive drop in gym
  2. Develop a resource for volunteers and staff (activities, games, behavior management techniques)

Skills

  1. Leadership experience with a collaboration-orientated attitude
  2. Ability to stand/bend/exert for extended periods of time
  3. Excellent communication skills
  4. Ability to take initiative, be creative, and self-direct
  5. Engaging and outgoing personality
  6. Capability to work both independently and collaboratively
  7. Experience engaging and working with diverse groups of people

Benefits

  1. Hands-on experience in adaptive program design and delivery.
  2. Leadership and facilitation skills.
  3. Opportunities to make a positive impact in the lives of those who re
  4. Mentorship and guidance from experienced YMCA staff.
  5. Access to Calgary Adapted Hub online trainings such as (Inclusion in Recreation, Mental Health Literacy 101, Unlocking Potential in Neurodiverse Participants, and Approaching Behaviors of Concern)
  6. A supportive environment for personal and professional growth.

 

Qualifications

  1. Enrolled in a post-secondary program related to social work, community rehabilitation, recreation, sport management, kinesiology, coaching or a related field.
  2. Enthusiastic about working with all ages and abilities and empowering them through the power of physical activity.
  3. Creative, organized, and able to take initiative.
  4. Strong communicators with an ability to engage and inspire.

*Please note that YMCA Calgary requires all practicum students to provide a police information check with a vulnerable sector search. If you do not have one that has been issued in the last 12 months, we can provide a letter that can be used to apply for one at a reduced cost after completion of an interview.

 

Orientation and Training

  1. Position-specific training
    1. Processes and tools
    2. Expectations
  2. Ongoing training and support