Volunteers Transform Lives

With hundreds of active volunteers and less than 30 people on staff, volunteers are what make CityKidz’ mission possible.

For more information about volunteering at CityKidz, please sign up for a tour and info session at our CityKidz location! 

Volunteering at CityKidz is a fantastic way to meet amazing people, develop new skills, and invest in a brighter future for children in your community.

Volunteering at CityKidz

Whatever your time, whatever your talents, we want to match you with a position that you will find comfortable, meaningful, and rewarding.

Whether you thrive on the front-line, connecting directly with our kids, prefer to work behind the scenes in an office setting – or something in between – we’ve got a place for your gifts to shine and serve your community!

Meet our Servants of Love

Our volunteers bring with them an incredible assortment of skills. They drive our buses so our kids can attend our programs. They sing and dance and keep everyone engaged and entertained during Saturday sessions. Our volunteers prepare food so that no child goes hungry and manage our reception desk so that no call is missed and every visitor gets where they need to go. In a million different ways, they are bringing hope and inspiring big dreams.

These are just some of the Servants of Love moving our mission forward:

Lennart

“From the first time I volunteered, I got to see the impact that CityKidz has is amazing. Having someone a little bit older who you can look up to, having someone that you can ask questions and will show up for you is super important.”

Brenda

Brenda

“Driving for CityKidz isn’t just a responsibility to get children around safely, it is also a joy to be part of a large group of people that are truly invested in communicating love to ‘our’ kids and seeing them succeed.”

Paul

“I first heard about CityKidz through my pastor at church. Went on a tour, joined and I haven’t looked back. It’s addictive, it’s non-stop, it’s all year. You can’t get enough of it once you start. Please join us!”

Joy

“Children and youth that we saw week after week knew that we were going to always be there. The walls that they built came down and they were able to trust and count on us.”

Current Volunteer Opportunities

Here are some of the fantastic ways you can get involved and make a lasting difference in the lives of Hamilton children!

CityKidz is seeking individuals to provide support to kids attending Saturday sessions, both on the Big Red Bus and in our theatre during the show. Through assisting with pickups/ drop offs and spending time with the kids in the theatre, you have the opportunity to impact the children by creating a safe, fun and loving environment as you build deep and intentional relationships.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist in supervising kids on the bus and during the CityKidz theatre show.

  • Connect and build relationships with the kids you are on the bus with.

  • Ensure the safety and well-being of children during the entirety of the program.

  • Lead by example through your words and actions to the children, in reflection to the messages -presented during a CityKidz show.

Requirements:

  • A passion for children to overcome barriers in their life and to dream big dreams.

  • Excitement for singing and dancing with the kids to encourage participation.

  • Patience, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude.

  • Must be 16 years of age.

Commitment: Minimum six (6) month commitment is required, for at least 1x a month but preferably biweekly Saturdays through March – June and September- December. Shifts: 7:30am-11:30am, 11:30am-3:30pm.

We are seeking reliable and safety-conscious Bus Drivers to join our CityKidz team. A CityKidz Bus Driver will be responsible for safely operating a bus while adhering to all traffic and CityKidz requirements. This position involves transporting kids, youth to and from their homes along with the volunteers to CityKidz, ensuring a comfortable and secure journey.

Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate a bus while adhering to all traffic rules and regulations.

  • Transport CityKidz and Youth to designated locations in a timely and safe manner.

  • Adhere to outlined routes and schedules.

  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure the bus is in proper working condition.

  • Report any incidents, accidents, or mechanical issues to staff.

Requirements:

  • Valid C or B driver’s license with a clean driving record.

  • Excellent driving skills and knowledge of traffic laws.

  • Ability to handle stressful situations calmly and effectively.

  • Must be 25 years of age.

Commitment: Minimum six (6) month commitment is required, for at least 1x a month but preferably biweekly Saturdays through March – June and September- December. Shifts: 7:00am-11:30 am, 11:00 am-3:30pm.

OR at least 2x a month but preferably weekly Wednesdays through March – June and September- December. Shifts: 5:30pm-6:30pm, 8:00pm-9:30pm.

We are seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join our team as Youth Mentor. This role involves working closely with young people, providing guidance, mentorship, and partaking in organized activities that promote personal development and community engagement. During your shift as a CityYouth Mentor, you will get to make deep connections and impact the lives of youth in grade 7-10 or 11-12 through games, lessons, and small group time, alongside other CityYouth mentors.

Responsibilities:

  • Engage with young people in a positive and supportive manner, fostering a safe and inclusive environment.

  • Act as a mentor and role model, offering guidance, advice, and support to young participants.

  • Facilitate a small group of youth with other mentors.

  • Support with clean up at the end of the night.

Requirements:

  • Passion for working with young people and a genuine interest in their development.

  • Communication and interpersonal skills. Demonstrating patience, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude.

  • Ability to relate to and engage with youth from diverse backgrounds.

  • High-level of integrity and an ability to act as a role model.

  • Must be 21 years of age or older.

Commitment: Minimum four (4) month commitment is required, for at least 3x a month but preferably weekly Wednesdays through March – June and September- December. Shifts: 5:30pm-9:00pm, or 6:00pm-9:30pm.

As a CityKidz Food Preparation Team Member, you will have the opportunity to work in a team of up to 5 to organize, sort, and prepare meals for every child that attends CityKidz on a Saturday, ensuring every hungry belly has been fed. No cooking skills required.

Responsibilities:

  • Follow the meal plan to prepare and distribute nutritious meals to each child attending the Saturday program at CityKidz.

  • Work collaboratively with the team to display care and love while handing out meals to each child attending the program.

  • Ensure the kitchen is kept clean and sanitized and hygiene standards are followed.

  • Adhere to food safe practices.

Requirements:

  • Ability to work well in a team environment is an asset.

  • Understanding of food standards and food safety practices.

  • Good judgment and evaluation skills in food preparation.

  • Proficiency in following directions accurately.

  • Ability to lift 30lbs. 

Commitment: Minimum four (4) month commitment is required, for at least 1x a month but preferably biweekly Saturdays through March – June and September- December. Shifts: 8:00am-10:45am, 11:45am-2:30pm.

As a CityKidz First Aid Attendant, you will have the opportunity to give back to your community and build relationships with kids and volunteers alike! In this role, you will have the opportunity to further develop your leadership abilities and experiences, all while caring for children and volunteers, as you make their experience at CityKidz safe. During your shift at CityKidz as a First Aid Attendant you will be the point person to assess and treat children aged 6-12 and/or volunteers on shift that have become injured or sick. Using your first aid training, you will be responsible for examining the care needed, and communicating that with the appropriate staff.

Responsibilities:

  • Provide professional care to children and volunteers requiring first aid attention, assessing their condition and administering appropriate treatment based on your first aid training.

  • Show love and concern for children in need of first aid attention, offering emotional support and reassurance during their time of need.

  • Complete First Aid Incident Reports for any children or volunteers whom you have provided care to, documenting the details of the incident and the care provided.

  • Maintain adequate inventory of first aid supplies, regularly checking stock levels and requesting additional supplies when needed to ensure availability for emergencies.

Requirements:

  • Current certification in First Aid with CPR-level C, demonstrating proficiency in providing emergency medical care.

  • Ability to work well under pressure and take initiative, remaining calm and focused in emergency situations.

  • Effective communication skills to interact with children, volunteers, and staff members, providing clear instructions and conveying empathy and support.

  • Good judgment and evaluation skills to assess the severity of injuries or illnesses and determine appropriate courses of action.

  • Proficiency in maintaining records and logs, accurately documenting incidents and care provided for future reference.

  • Must be 16 years of age or older.

Commitment: Minimum four (4) month commitment is required, for at least 1x a month but preferably biweekly Saturdays through March – June and September- December. Shifts: 9:00am-11:00am, 12:30pm-2:30pm.

As a Home Visit volunteer, you will be part of an energetic, and highly rewarding team as you go out and visit each of our families at their front door. This role is key to building relationships with children and their families and to provide information about the Saturday program or other initiatives for CityKidz. The visit can be anything from a quick “hello” to a brief conversation with the kids and parents, depending on the relationship. Our primary purpose is to consistently connect and invest in personal relationships with our children, youth and families. You get a front row seat as children grow, dream and transform their lives.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist the Captain of your assigned Route with weekly Home Visits.

  • Connect and build relationships with children and families on your route.

  • Follow CityKidz Policies and Procedures regarding Home Visits.

  • Act as a role model through words and actions, in teaching children the messages presented at CityKidz.

Requirements:

  • Ability to communicate effectively and build rapport with children and families from diverse backgrounds.

  • Demonstrated empathy and compassion towards children and families facing challenges or adversity, showing understanding and support in their situations.

  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and respect the privacy of children and families encountered during home visits, adhering to CityKidz confidentiality policies.

  • Patience in building relationships with children and families over time, as well as persistence in engaging them in conversations about CityKidz programs and initiatives.

  • Physically able to walk a specific geographical area (for 1 1/2 – 3 hours) in all kinds of weather.

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.

Commitment: Minimum six (6) month commitment is required, for at least 1x a month but preferably biweekly January- December.

Shifts: Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday for two (2) hours, between 3:00pm-7:00 pm.

As a Cast Member, you play a vital role in the presentation of CityKidz studio shows for children aged 6-12. You will have the opportunity to participate in show segments such as songs, dancing, games, skits, and teaching lessons, in which creates a fun, dynamic, and immersive environment that inspires children to pursue positive character and big dreams.

Responsibilities:

  • Participate in show rehearsals to prepare for CityKidz studio shows.

  • Assist with the organization of show materials both before and during a show.

  • Lead and present show segments with enthusiasm and energy and facilitate show engagement and interaction with the audience.

  • Work closely with fellow cast members, show leadership, and Tech Team members to ensure smooth show execution.

Requirements:

  • Ability to contribute to a program that combines theatrical and children’s ministry components.

  • Willingness to learn the skills needed for running an effective CityKidz show.

  • Integrity and commitment to the CityKidz Mission of inspiring children to pursue positive character traits and big dreams.

  • Outgoing with a willingness to be on stage.

Commitment: 

Minimum four (4) month commitment is required, preferably biweekly Tuesdays and Saturdays through March – June and September- December.

Shifts: Saturdays: 8:00am-3:00pm AND Tuesday rehearsal: 7:00pm-9:00pm.

As a Tech Team Member, you play a critical role in operating sound, computer, and light equipment for CityKidz Saturday studio shows. The Tech Team creates an engaging and entertaining environment where children aged 6-12 can have fun, learn CityKidz lessons, and find inspiration to pursue positive character traits and big dreams.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop the skills necessary for operating Tech Team equipment, including studio lighting, computer presentation software, and sound boards.

  • Operate Tech Team equipment during rehearsals and CityKidz Saturday studio shows, ensuring smooth execution and creating an engaging atmosphere for the audience.

  • Work in cooperation with fellow Tech Team members, cast members, and show leadership to coordinate cues and transitions effectively.

Requirements:

  • Basic competence in operating a computer, including familiarity with computer software and navigation.

  • Willingness to learn the skills needed for operating studio lighting, computer presentation software, and/or a sound board, with training provided as necessary.

  • Must be physically able to climb the Tech booth ladder in the CityKidz theatre to access equipment and control panels.

Commitment: 

Minimum four (4) month commitment is required, preferably biweekly Tuesdays and Saturdays through March – June and September- December.

Shifts: Saturdays:8:00am-3:00pm AND Tuesday rehearsal: 7:00pm-9:00pm.

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help with ensure all of the behind-the-scenes components that go into our Saturday programs run smoothly. As a Saturday Support Team Member, you play a critical role in maintaining order, ensuring safety, and fostering a positive environment within our facility. There are 3 main Saturday support roles; Welcome team, hallway support and Bus logistics.

  • Welcome team: As a member of the welcome team, you will be the first point of contact for volunteers as they arrive on a Saturday at CityKidz. During your shift on a Saturday, you will be welcoming volunteers and getting them to where they need to be. It is essential in this role to have a friendly and engaging personality, as you will be providing hospitality to each of our volunteers.
  • Hallway: As a CityKidz Hallway Support Volunteer, you will work in a team of two to help children navigate to and from the bathroom, supervise the water station, and to provide a safe environment for any child that may be having a hard time in the theatre.
  • Logistics: As a Bus Logistics Support Member, you will be part of an energetic, and highly rewarding team as you ensure safety surrounding CityKidz Saturdays. This role is key to ensuring logistics of the day run smoothly specifically with children unloading and loading, and directing traffic so buses can park or leave safely.

Commitment: Minimum four (4) month commitment is required, for at least 1x a month but preferably biweekly Saturdays through March – June and September- December. Shifts: 9:00am-11:00am, 12:30pm-2:30pm.

Team Captains are the top-level leaders of this organization. Team Captains are crucial to building lasting and consistent relationships with each and every child. As a CityKidz Team Captain, you will build relationships with our kids and families. You will be able to give back to the community, having a positive influence in the lives of many children, youth and adults. You will also develop greater leadership skills and experience.

Responsibilities:

  • Oversee a route of kids (Approx. 50-90 kids).

  • Weekly home visits (Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday evenings).

  • Primary leader on the bus. Giving leadership to the Jr. Leaders, bus team members and the kids.

Requirements:

  • Mature Leadership and Commitment to CityKidz Values; including; ability to inspire, team development skills, faith commitment and passion for CityKidz.

  • A passion for children to overcome barriers in their life and to dream big dreams.

  • High level of emotional intelligence, empathy, good communication and critical thinking skills.

  • Administrative Capacity Including: detail oriented, organized, professional, and time management.

  • Integrity and Commitment to CityKidz Mission.

  • Must have the ability to access the buses and move around the theatre.

  • Must have completed 1 season of volunteering as a bus team member.

Commitment: Minimum 1 year commitment is required for weekly home visits Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday for two (2) hours, between 3:00pm-7:00pm and biweekly Saturdays through March – June and September- December. Shifts: 7:00am-11:30am, 11:00am-3:30pm.

For more information about volunteering at CityKidz, please sign up for a tour and info session at our CityKidz location! 

Frequently Asked Questions

In order to become a CityKidz volunteer, you must be 16 years of age or older, in agreement with our mission, vision and values, and complete the CityKidz volunteer intake process. Each volunteer role is unique and the specific requirements may vary depending on the position.

We want to make sure that CityKidz is the right fit for you! Our intake process is designed to start you in your role with confidence and excitement! All volunteers attend an orientation where they learn more about the history, mission and vision of CityKidz as well as information about each of our programs. Following orientation, volunteers are screened through an application, interview, background check, and reference check. To begin the process, fill out our volunteer application!

We ask volunteers to commit to a full season so that relationships and trust can be built with the kids! If you are 16 years of age or older, and able to commit to a full season, we would be happy to help facilitate your requirement for graduation.

Yes! If you would like to come as a guest for a Saturday, we would be happy to pair you with a current volunteer so you can see firsthand what we are all about. We hope you will love it so much, you’ll be signing up for orientation!

Still have questions? We’ve got answers!

To learn more about volunteering at CityKidz, use the contact form or call 905-544-3996 ext. 225.

Volunteer recruitment supported by:

Volunteers Transform Lives

Whatever your time, whatever your talents, you can make a transformative difference in a child’s life.

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