City of Burnaby - Recreation: Bonsor Seniors 55+

Volunteer Bus Driver

General Outline: 

Bonsor 55+ Society has a 20-passenger mini-bus. Volunteer bus drivers are needed and scheduled for day outings by City of Burnaby staff and day, group, and overnight outings by the Bonsor 55+ Society bus committee. 

The role of volunteer bus drivers are as providers of transportation to and from predetermined destinations. Drivers generally stay with the group during tours and meals. Technical driving skills as well as interpersonal and organizational skills are necessary for this position.

Duties:

1. Prime concern at all times should be for the safety and comfort of the passengers.
2. Ensure the vehicle is in good operating condition prior to the loading of passengers. Perform standard pre and post trip inspections and complete required forms.
3. Record all necessary details in the bus log book before departing and upon returning from the outing.
4. Vehicles are to be refueled by drivers only. Passengers must not be in the vehicle during refueling, according to the Ministry of Transportation. A Society credit card is provided to use for re-fueling the vehicle.
5. Fill vehicle with fuel after each outing.
6. Assist all passengers on and off the vehicle at each stop.
7. Vehicles must be driven only on paved roads such as city streets and highways, with the only exceptions being for outings including activities such as snowshoeing, parades, etc. as directed by the coordinator.
8. Report any problems or accidents which have occurred, regardless of how minor.
9. Check frequently with host(ess) to ensure comfortable heating and ventilation is maintained for the passengers
10. Smoking is not permitted in vehicles.
11. Drivers must never operate the mini-bus after having consumed any amount of alcohol. No unsealed containers of alcohol shall be allowed in the vehicle.
12. If the driver is feeling ill, notify the city staff person to find a replacement driver
13. Seatbelts must be worn by drivers and all passengers at all times.

Qualifications/Attributes:

1. Must have a current B.C. Class 4 driver’s license, which must be kept on the drivers person at all times when driving. Drivers must also provide a completed criminal records check as well as drivers abstract and may be asked to provide a yearly copy of the Class 4 driver’s license by the Seniors Society or City of Burnaby staff. Presentation of license may also be required to obtain keys to a vehicle.
2. Current first aid certification is an asset.
3. Familiarity with the Lower Mainland is desirable.
4. Ability to complete forms, reports and log books.
5. Ability to maintain a schedule / follow an itinerary.
6. Map reading skills.
7. Strong ‘people’ skills, ability to communicate well verbally and to develop a rapport with participants.
8. Flexibility, decision making, initiative and leadership skills.
9. For those wanting to drive the City of Burnaby’s bus, additional testing will be required.

Retired health care professionals help with weight/height/blood pressure measurement. Others help with check-in and hosting weekly health program for seniors.

Help assist with celebrations and special events for members at the seniors centre.

Lead or help lead an activity, teach a skill or help with setup, cleanup and refreshments at a seniors activity group.