Community Healthcaring Kitchener-Waterloo

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Let’s Grow, is a seasonal, hands-on wellness program that brings together community members to grow, learn, and connect through gardening. The garden serves as an educational space, supporting mental and physical well-being, food literacy, and environmental awareness. Participants work together to plant, tend, and harvest from urban garden beds while engaging in meaningful conversation, skill sharing, and peer support. Volunteers and staff co-create a welcoming and inclusive space that reflects the diverse cultures and needs of our community.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
Help maintain a welcoming, safe, and organized garden environment, while providing hands-on assistance during programming. Volunteers will assist with a variety of garden-related tasks and contribute to a space that encourages community building, healthy living, and learning.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide hands-on support during scheduled garden programs
• Assist with the set-up and take-down of garden supplies and tools
• Support general garden maintenance, including:

• Planting, pruning, weeding, and watering
• Tidying garden beds and walkways
• Harvesting when applicable
• Help clean, organize, and store tools and materials after each session

• Promote a safe and inclusive space by modeling teamwork, patience, and respect
• Work collaboratively with staff and other volunteers
• Maintain client confidentiality and respect participant privacy at all times

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Interest in gardening, food security, and community health
• Ability to work outdoors, engage in light physical tasks, and lifting objects weighing between 15-20 pounds
• Friendly, approachable, and comfortable interacting with adults from diverse backgrounds.
• Respect for cultural diversity and inclusive practices
• Willingness to learn and work as a team
• Ability to maintain boundaries and respect participant confidentiality
• Must complete a Vulnerable Sector Police Check

SUPERVISION

1. Each Volunteer will be assigned a staff supervisor. The staff supervisor is someone who is the lead and connected to the program.
2. The staff supervisor or a designated staff will be available (either in person or by phone) if a question or issue arises.
3. The Volunteer is also encouraged to connect with the staff supervisor at any time to discuss an idea or issue as they arise.

ORIENTATION/TRAINING

1. Complete the CHCKW Volunteer Application Form.
2. Volunteers are required to submit the following before beginning their position: Vulnerable Sector Police Check , Proof of Covid-19 Vaccination, 2 References.
3. Complete Volunteer orientation training modules and read required policies.

EVALUATION:

1. Volunteers receive ongoing performance feedback from their staff supervisor and/or the Volunteer Coordinator. Volunteers can provide and request feedback as required.
2. Volunteers are encouraged to participate in the annual Volunteer Experience Survey.

TIME COMMITMENT, REQUIRED HOURS & LOCATION

Seasonal Opportunity: March-October

Required Hours: TBD

Commitment: 3 months

Location: 44 Francis Street South, Kitchener