Volunteers
The Lifeblood of KSM
Kerr Street Mission relies on volunteers to help our programs run smoothly. If you are interested in a volunteer role, please take a look at the positions available below.
Application Process
Our organization carefully selects its volunteers, and not everyone who applies will be accepted.
KSM takes its responsibilities with respect to our clients seriously, and screens volunteer applicants thoroughly. Our screening process includes a preliminary interview followed by reference checks for successful candidates. A current (within 90 days) Vulnerable Sector Check is also required from successful candidates aged 18+ before they begin volunteering.
PLEASE NOTE: The application and placement process may take 4-6 weeks to complete.
Current Opportunities
URGENT NEED!
Community Meals - Meal Group Liaison
KSM is able to provide meals to our clients & community through the generosity of our volunteer meal groups. Assist KSM by warmly greeting volunteer meal groups and providing guidance as they prepare and serve meals. The role also includes the management/support of setup and clean-up etc. This role is suitable for volunteers 18+ who enjoy working with people and can provide leadership in a respectful and congenial manner.
- Family Night Mondays 5:45 pm – 7:45 pm (weekly commitment requested)
Position: Community Meals – Meal Group Liaison
Supervisor: Family Services Manager
Objective: To provide guidance to volunteer groups that prepare community meals, ensuring they have a positive experience while delivering a meal that is prepared in accordance with KSM’s food handling practices.
Responsibilities:
- Warmly greet volunteer groups upon your arrival
- Ensure that required supplies are available
- Ensure tables and chairs are set up, and tables are set with cutlery and napkins in advance of meal time
- Prepare coffee and tea and set up the beverage station
- Assist with client check-in as needed
- Ensure groups are following safe food handling practices (use of hairnets, gloves) and adhering to KSM’s Meal guidelines
- Provide oversight to teams throughout the community meal process to ensure teams stay on track, delegating tasks to meal group members if necessary to help them along
- Be available for questions from the meal group and troubleshoot issues, providing assistance as needed
- Identify and try to resolve client and/or logistical issues and escalate to the onsite KSM staff member as needed
- Supervise the cleanup process ensuring the items on the KSM Kitchen Checklist are completed,
and ensuring the kitchen and dining hall are left in a clean state - Discuss suitability of leftover food with KSM staff and package or discard, as required
- Ensure kitchen waste bins are emptied and cleared to the appropriate compost, trash or recycling bin located outside of the building
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Previous kitchen experience is an asset
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to delegate, lead others and provide direction in a respectful manner
- Good time management and multi-tasking skills
- Excellent problem solving ability
- Food Handling Certification or willingness to obtain Food Handling Certification is an asset
Commitment: Minimum 3 month commitment
Training: Volunteer Training Manual, KSM Orientation, Food Handling Overview, Support from staff
Food Services – Volunteer Driver (3 positions available)
Use your vehicle or the KSM van (depending on donation size) to pick up donations from local organizations, bring the items back to KSM and unload them into the respective storage unit. Open to volunteers 18+ with ability to lift 30-50lbs with ease.
Available shifts:
- Weekly pickups on Fridays, with a 60-90 minute time commitment starting at 12:00 pm
- Monthly pickups at 9:00 am (flexible days)
- Flexible – Available on call for non scheduled pickups
Position: Food Services – Volunteer Driver
Supervisor(s): Donation Management & Food Procurement Specialist
Objective: To support KSM staff in the pick up of food donations from local donors and suppliers.
Responsibilities:
- Work with KSM’s Food Services Team to pick up donations from local stores and suppliers
- Drive KSM van or own car between KSM and the donor’s destination
- Greet donors warmly and thank them on behalf of KSM
- Load donations carefully into vehicle
- Transport donations to KSM and help unload them into the appropriate storage facility
- Contact KSM if any issues arise along the route and also to confirm deliveries have been made
- Drive carefully, obeying speed limits and local traffic/parking bylaws
- Represent KSM in a positive way on the road and in the community
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Must be reliable, punctual and trustworthy
- Flexible schedule
- Good driver with valid G drivers license and current auto insurance
- Provision of drivers abstract if driving KSM van
- Ability to lift up to 50lbs with no issue
- Mobile phone with text capability
- Ability to cover cost of gas/mileage if using own car
- A Vulnerable Sector Check (police check) is required
Commitment: Weekly commitment for a minimum of 3 months.
Training: KSM Policy & Procedure Training; Orientation; Support from staff.
URGENT NEED!
Community Delivery Volunteer Driver
Using your vehicle, help us deliver food parcels to clients who cannot attend our market (food bank) in person. Open to volunteers 18+ who can lift up to 30 pounds with ease. Weekly commitment is required.
Requested commitment: Weekly shifts
- Wednesdays for 1 hour between 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm
Position: Community Delivery Volunteer Driver
Supervisor(s): Community Delivery Coordinator
Objective: To deliver food parcels to clients who are unable to come to Kerr Street Mission in person due to health, mobility or other reasons.
Responsibilities:
- Once a week, deliver food parcels according to a prescribed route within the Oakville area
(approximately 5-8 dropoffs per shift) - Arrive at KSM at the scheduled time to pick up food parcels and load car
- Follow route to clients addresses, following the dropoff instructions on the list provided
- If contact cannot be made, return the food parcels to KSM
- Contact the Community Delivery Coordinator if any issues arise along the route and also to confirm deliveries have been made
- Shred documents containing client information once deliveries are complete
- Represent KSM in a positive and caring way with our clients and in the community
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Must be reliable and punctual
- Good driver with current auto insurance
- Ability to lift up to 30 lbs with no issue
- Possess a mobile phone with text capability
- Good organizational skills and attention to detail
- Possess compassion, patience, and respect for client confidentiality
- Ability to cover cost of gas/mileage for weekly trips
- A ‘Vulnerable Sector Check’ (police check) is required
Commitment: Minimum 3-month commitment.
Training: KSM Policy & Procedure Training; Orientation; Support from staff.
Community Delivery Volunteer - Seniors Building (Occasional)
Deliver food parcels to our client’s doorsteps in a local seniors building on an occasional/as needed basis. Open to volunteers 18+.
- Wednesdays from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm when needed
Position: Community Delivery Volunteer
Supervisor(s): Community Delivery Coordinator
Objective: To deliver food parcels to our elderly clients.
Responsibilities:
- On a weekly basis, meet KSM staff and/or fellow volunteers at a local seniors building
- If required, help bring food parcels from the delivery van into the building lobby
- Deliver food parcels to clients’ apartment doors, per the client delivery list
- Ensure parcels are delivered in a contact-less manner
- Report any issues to the Community Deliveries Coordinator
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Must be punctual and reliable
- Demonstrates organization and attention to detail
- Has ability to work independently
- Good problem-solving ability
- Ability to wear a face mask and follow COVID-19 protocol
- Vulnerable Sector Check is required
Commitment: Minimum 3-month commitment.
Training: Volunteer Training Manual, KSM Orientation, Support from staff
Kids' Club & Youth – Snack Volunteer
Seeking volunteers to help us prepare and serve nutritious snacks for children and youth in our programs, followed by kitchen cleanup. Please note the snack menu and ingredients are provided by KSM. This role is suitable for volunteers 18+ who have experience cooking.
Requested commitment: One shift per week per school year (mid September to end of June) excluding elementary school holidays
- Fridays 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Position: Kids’ Clubs Snack Volunteer
Supervisor(s): Children’s Development Program Coordinator
Objective: To prepare nutritious snacks for the children in Kids Club & Youth Program.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare snacks for 20-40 children according to the menu and ingredients provided by KSM (working in a team of two on high volume days)
- Follow safe food handling practices during food preparation and service
- Set up food service area prior to children’s arrival
- Plate/serve snack to participants
- Interact positively with children
- Clean up dining area and kitchen in accordance with KSM guidelines
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Must be able to relate appropriately to children and exhibit positive role modelling
- Clear and current Vulnerable Sector Check is required
- Safe Food Handling Certification is an asset but not required
Commitment: One shift weekly for duration of school year (mid-Sept to end of June)
Kids' Club – Pickup Volunteer
Seeking pairs of volunteers to pick up our Kids Club members aged 5-10 from a local school and safely walk them to KSM. Volunteers may stay and help supervise the children’s snack time (optional). This role is suitable for volunteers 18+ who enjoy working with children. Ideally one pair of volunteers will cover the three shifts.
Requested commitment: One shift per week for school year (mid September to end of June) excluding elementary school holidays
- Mondays 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm (1 volunteer needed)
- Wednesdays 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm (1 volunteer needed)
- Fridays 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm (2 volunteers needed)
Position: Kids’ Club – Pickup Volunteer
Supervisor(s): Children’s Development Program Coordinator
Objective: To help pick up children from local Public School and safely walk them to KSM each program day.
Responsibilities
- Check in at KSM before shift start
- Meet children outside of local public school
- Walk with the children to KSM and ensure road safety
- Ensure that each child safely travels from the school to KSM
- Maintain order and safety en route
- Positively interact with and build positive relationships with children
- Help supervise children during snack period once at KSM (optional)
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Clear and current Vulnerable Sector Check is required
Commitment: One shift weekly for duration of school year (mid-Sept to end of June)
Gym Supervisor – Family Night
Monday nights are family nights at KSM! We are looking for two energetic volunteers who can work together to set-up and run activities in our gym for the children attending Family Night. Volunteers will supervise the children during this timeframe. This position is suitable for a pair of volunteers 18+ or a combination of one adult and one student volunteer (14+) who enjoy working with children and can provide a safe and fun environment for them.
- Mondays 6:15 pm – 8:00 pm (Weekly commitment requested through the school year of September to end of June – may exclude school holidays)
Position: Family Night – Gym Supervisor
Supervisor(s): Family Services Manager
Objective: To provide a safe and fun environment for the children attending the Family Night Meal, by setting up and supervising gym activities after the dinner meal.
Responsibilities:
- Check in with Front Desk upon arrival and collect the Gym Supervisor’s bucket and a walkie
talkie for Front Desk communication - Set up a sign-in table and arrange a few chairs for parents who may accompany children into the gym
- Set up gym equipment (balls, hula hoops, games, etc.) in preparation for children’s arrival
- Warmly greet families as children are signed into the gym
- Engage children in play, while staying conscious of the active play in the gym
- Resolve minor disputes between children (and escalating it to parents in the event a resolution
cannot be made) - Connect with Front Desk staff to engage parental support when necessary
- Encourage children to assist with clean up of gym equipment at 7:40 pm
- Usher families out at 7:50 pm for 8:00 pm KSM closing (the Meal Liaison will usher parents out of the dining hall to pick up children at 7:45 pm)
- Check all doors in the gym to ensure they are closed
- Turn off lights upon exiting the gym
- Return the Supervisor’s bucket and walkie talkie to the Front Desk
Requirements:
- At least one of the 2 people must be 18+
- Energetic and enthusiastic
- Ability to handle noise
- Ability to redirect children’s behaviour
- First Aid an asset
Commitment: September – June
Training: Volunteer Training Manual, KSM Orientation, Support from staff
Meal Preparation Volunteer – Prenatal Education Program
KSM is hosting prenatal education programs for expectant parents in our community. We are running three sessions, each of which is 6 weeks in duration. We are looking for a volunteer to come to KSM and prepare a nutritious lunch for each of the sessions. Recipes and ingredients will be provided by KSM. This role is suitable for volunteers who are 18+, enjoy cooking and serving, and can commit to attend weekly for one (or more) of the six week sessions.
- Mondays 10:00 am – 1:00 pm (weekly commitment requested for one (or more) of the following education sessions)
- Session 1: October 17, 2022 – November 21, 2022
- Session 2: January 9, 2023 – February 13, 2023
- Session 3: April 10, 2023 – May 15, 2023
Position: Prenatal Education Program – Meal Preparation
Supervisor(s): Family Services Manager
Objective: To prepare a nutritious lunch for the moms (and their pre-school children) who are participating in the program.
Responsibilities:
- To prepare the lunch according to the recipes provided, based on the Canada Food Guide and
utilizing food sourced from the KSM market. - Serving and participating in the meal, building relationships with the moms, and interacting in a positive and respectful manner.
- Cleaning up the prep station, doing the dishes and returning it to its original state.
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Must be reliable
- Must adhere to Safe Food Handling policies and practices
- A love of cooking is an asset
Commitment: Minimum 6-week commitment; Must be present and on time for the event set up
Training: Family Programs Policy & Procedure Training; Orientation; Support from staff
Meals Team Member
Would you like to be part of a small team that prepares and serves nutritious lunches to our KSM community? This role involves food prep, serving and cleanup. Suitable for volunteers 18+ who have experience cooking and who can provide excellent customer service.
Requested commitment: One shift per week for minimum 75% of the year
- Fridays on a weekly basis from 10:00 am – 1:30 pm (1 position available)
Position: Meals Team Member
Supervisor(s): KSM Kitchen Coordinator & Meals Team Leader
Objective: To prepare nutritious lunches for members of the KSM community
Responsibilities:
- Under the direction of the Meals Team leader, work alongside a small team of volunteers to prepare the assigned components of the lunchtime meal
- Serve the meal to the clients (up to 40 people)
- Greet clients warmly and provide excellent customer service
- Clean up kitchen once meal is complete, following KSM’s cleaning protocols which include disinfecting the work counters, disposing of waste/recycling and sweeping floors in the kitchen
- Follow KSM’s Safe Food Handling policies and procedures by washing hands, wearing gloves if needed and utilizing a hair covering
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Vulnerable Sector Check is required
- Cooking experience/comfort in the kitchen is a must
- Ability to take direction and work independently
- Ability to work well as part of a team
- Ability to provide excellent customer service
- Food Handling Certification is an asset
Commitment: Weekly commitment for a minimum of 3 months
Training: Volunteer Training Manual, KSM Orientation, Support from staff
Warehouse (Market Operations) Volunteer
Help us receive donations and shipments, manage our food inventory and keep our food bank shelves and fridges stocked. Suitable for volunteers 18+ who can lift 20-50 pounds.
Requested commitment: Weekly shifts.
- Mondays 9:00 am – 11:00 am
- Wednesdays 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Wednesdays 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Position: Warehouse (Market Operations) Volunteer
Supervisor(s): Food Services Manager, Warehouse & Logistics Coordinator
Objective: To ensure that the KSM Food Market and Warehouse are set up, organized, and prepared to be able to effectively support clients, community members, and other volunteers.
Responsibilities:
- Support with stocking the KSM Food Market by loading in fresh food products, and bringing
additional inventory from food storage locations. - Help to load and unload deliveries, putting items away in designated locations.
- Engage with food donors ensuring they are appreciated, weigh donations, and input the
donations into the tracking system accurately. - Shuffle inventory in storage locations as needed to maintain a steady flow of product following a
first-in-first-out process. - Organize food in refrigeration units and ensure that the unit temperatures are maintained.
- Keep the KSM warehouse and work areas clean and organized according to warehouse
processes. Take out recycling and other clutter as needed. - Maintain a courteous and professional manner with staff and other volunteers
- Occasionally accompany KSM staff to go offsite and help with additional loading and receiving tasks.
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Ability to lift 40-50 pounds with ease
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Good multi-tasking skills
- Ability to take direction and complete tasks efficiently
- Good problem-solving ability
- Attention to detail
- Organized and communicative
Commitment: Minimum 3-month commitment.
Training: Volunteer Training Manual, KSM Orientation, Support from staff
Summer Student Opportunities
Are you home from university or college and looking for a way to donate your time? Are you a quick learner who is available during the day? If so, we could use your help filling open volunteer shifts from May to September.
Roles will vary from working in our market (food bank) to restocking shelves and everything in between. Shift days/times may change from week to week but your attendance is based on your availability. Suitable for students 18+.
Market (Food Bank) Volunteer
Provide customer service and assist clients through the various stages of their market (food bank) visit. Open to volunteers 18+. Weekly commitment is required.
- Thursday 9:45 am – 11:45 am
Position: Food Market Volunteer
Supervisor(s): Client Experience Coordinator
Objective: To assist clients through all stages of their market experience and to provide comfort, dignity, and a sense of safety to those using our services atKSM.
Responsibilities:
- Market Check-In:
- Manage the flow of clients entering the market and ensure safe physical distancing is being practiced.
- Ensure that clients have been screened, verify Membership cards, and log each client’s visit using our Food Bank database. Communicate the size of the client’s family and program participation to other volunteers so that the clients can receive the correct items.
- Market Assistant:
- Assist clients requiring help with their shopping baskets or with bagging, hand out produce from the fridge to ensure the proper amount is being fairly given, and help clients make informed choices based on food availability.
- Verify that client’s food selections match their allocation based on family size, kindly communicate with clients if they have chosen too many items and return to the appropriate shelf.
- Ensure appropriate physical distancing is occurring within the market space.
- Choose Fresh Assistant:
- Distribute Choose Fresh items to participating clients.
- Assist clients requiring help with their shopping baskets or with bagging and ensure appropriate physical distancing is occurring within the market space.
- Ensure clients are leaving safely through the appropriate exit.
- Market Floater:
- Promote KSM’s programs such as Choose Fresh and Community Meals.
- Help manage the flow of clients through the physically distanced line-up, communicating with other volunteers/staff by walkie talkie as needed.
- Respond to and report/deescalate any issues that are present.
- Assist clients requiring help with their shopping baskets.
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Must have a current Vulnerable Sector Check
- Ability to respond firmly, compassionately and with grace
- Understanding of compassion, valuing diversity, and awareness of issues facing this particular population
Commitment: Minimum 3-month commitment; must be present and on time for hours of food bank operation.
Training: Policy & Procedure Training; Orientation; Support from staff
March Break Program Assistant
KSM is running a March Break Camp this year! We are looking for 4-5 volunteers, aged 17+ who can commit to volunteering for the full 5 days of March Break. This role is great for volunteers who enjoy working with kids and youth. Previous experience in camp or working with minors is an asset.
- 5 day commitment required – March 14-18.
- Shifts: 8:45 am – 4:15 pm
Application Deadline is March 2, 2022.
Position: March Break Program Assistant
Supervisor(s): Kerr Street Afterschool Program Lead
Objective: To support camp leaders and provide campers with a positive and engaging experience.
Responsibilities:
- Assist camp leaders in the execution of daily camp programming for children aged 6-14
- Participate in sports, crafts, trips and other activities with the campers maintaining a high level
of engagement and enthusiasm - Assist with camp set up and clean up each day
- Supervise children as directed by camp leaders
- Treat all camp participants with kindness and respect
- Adhere to Kerr Street Mission policies
- Escalate issues to the camp leader and/or KSM staff member on site
Requirements:
- Must be 17+
- Ability to relate positively and enjoy spending time with children
- Must be energetic, outgoing and creative
- Must possess some athletic ability
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to lead others and provide direction in a respectful manner
- Good time management and multi-tasking skills
- Excellent problem solving ability
Commitment: 5-day commitment during March 14-18, 2022 from 8:45 am – 4:15 pm.
Training: Volunteer Training Manual, KSM Orientation, Support from staff
Farmers Market – Volunteer Driver
Use your vehicle (ideally a van, large SUV or pickup truck) to visit a Farmer’s Market in the GTA to pickup donations from participating merchants and transport them back to KSM, unloading them into our storage unit. Suited for volunteer pairs, one of whom must be 18+. Ongoing commitment for the farmers market season (May to end of October)
- Bi-weekly on Saturdays from 1:30 – 3:00 pm
Position: Farmers Market – Volunteer Driver
Supervisor(s): Manager, Food Services
Objective: To support KSM staff in the pick up of fresh food donations.
Responsibilities:
- Between May to end of October, use own vehicle to pick up donations from participating
vendors in a farmers market in the GTA - Greet donors warmly and thank them on behalf of KSM
- Load donations carefully into vehicle
- Transport donations to KSM and unload them into the outdoor refrigeration unit
- Maintain key to KSM’s unit in your possession to be returned at the end of the season
- Contact KSM if any issues arise to confirm delivery has been made
- Drive carefully, obeying speed limits and local traffic/parking bylaws
- Represent KSM in a positive way on the road and in the community
Requirements:
- This opportunity is best suited to volunteer pairs (i.e. parent and student), one volunteer must
be 18+ - Must be reliable, punctual and trustworthy
- Driver must have a valid drivers license and current auto insurance
- Large vehicle (i.e. SUV or pickup truck)
- Provision of drivers abstract may be required
- Ability to lift up to 50lbs with no issue
- Mobile phone with text capability and access to GPS/Data
- Ability to cover cost of gas/mileage
- A Vulnerable Sector Check (police check) is required for volunteers who are 18+
Commitment: Ability to commit regularly for the farmers market season (end of May to end of
October)
Training: KSM Policy & Procedure Training; Orientation; Support from staff.
Friendly Phone Caller
Make phone calls to our senior clients who would benefit from a friendly check-in. Calls are made from KSM and a bi-weekly commitment is required. Open to volunteers 18+
- Shifts are approximately 1-2 hours in length. Shift timing is flexible from Monday to Friday during business hours, but we ask that they be at a consistent time every two weeks
Position: Friendly Phone Caller
Supervisor: Family Services Manager
Objective: To provide bi-weekly check-ins to our senior clients.
Responsibilities:
- Working from KSM premises, conduct 15 minute telephone check-ins with 4 clients per week
- Initiate conversation and/or provide the client with space to lead the conversation
- Be an engaged and active listener
- Ensure the conversational topics remain appropriate
- Exercise good judgement and interact with clients in a positive and respectful manner
- Maintain healthy boundaries with the client, and ensure the call ends at the specified time
- Relay any pressing client needs or crises to the Family Services Manager as soon as possible
- Prepare meeting notes after each call, for review by the Family Services Manager
- Relay any urgent client needs, crises or concerns to the Family Services Manager right away
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Clear and current Vulnerable Sector Check
- Ability to deal with vulnerable persons appropriately, previous experience is an asset
- Must be very reliable and committed to making calls at the same times each week as clients will
count on the interactions - Must be patient and compassionate
- Great conversationalist
- Have a desire to care for people in the community in a meaningful way
- Fluency in Arabic or Russian is an asset
Commitment: Minimum 6 month commitment; Must be on time and committed to making the
calls at a specified time each week.
Training: Policy & Procedure Training; Orientation; Support from staff.
Community Meal – Client Liaison
We are re-introducing on-site meals at Kerr Street Mission, following all of the COVID-19 protocols. We are looking for volunteers to lead our lunch-time Community Meal activities. Suitable for volunteers 18+. Two positions available (one volunteer for each day).
- Tuesdays 11:45 am – 1:15pm
- Fridays 11:45 am – 1:15pm
Position: Community Meal – Client Liaison
Supervisor: Family Services Manager
Objective: To build relationships with clients during community meals.
Responsibilities:
- Attend meal time events organized by KSM staff
- On behalf of KSM, welcome service providers/presenters who have been scheduled to attend
- Lead client activities that have been designed by the KSM staff
- Socialize, engage and interact with clients in a positive and respectful manner
- Build appropriate relationships with clients, helping them feel valued and cared for
- Over time, develop an understanding of client needs and relay to the Family Services Manager
- Share ideas and feedback with the Family Services Manager
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Clear and current Vulnerable Sector Check
- Ability to relate appropriately to vulnerable persons (previous experience is an asset)
- Must be reliable and committed as staff and clients will count on your attendance
- Must be patient and compassionate
- Excellent conversational skills
- Leadership ability
- Have a desire to care for clients in the community in creative and meaningful ways
Commitment: Minimum 6 month commitment; Must be present and on time for the events.
Training: KSM Policy & Procedure Training; Orientation; Support from staff.
Community Meal – Group Liaison
On behalf of KSM, greet our volunteer meal groups and meal patrons. Provide guidance and support as groups prepare and serve our community meals and ensure everything is set up and ready for our meal recipients. Open to volunteers 18+. Ongoing bi-weekly commitment required.
- Saturday 8:00 am – 10:00 am (bi-weekly)
Position: Community Meal – Group Liaison
Supervisor: Family Services Manager
Objective: To provide guidance to volunteer groups that prepare community meals, ensuring they have a positive experience while delivering a meal that is prepared in accordance with KSM’s food handling practices.
Responsibilities:
- Warmly greet volunteer groups upon your arrival
- Ensure that required supplies are available
- Ensure tables and chairs are set up, and tables are set with cutlery and napkins in advance of meal time
- Prepare coffee and tea and set up the beverage station
- Assist with client check-in as needed
- Ensure groups are following safe food handling practices (use of hairnets, gloves) and adhering to KSM’s Meal guidelines
- Provide oversight to teams throughout the community meal process to ensure teams stay on track, delegating tasks to meal group members if necessary to help them along
- Be available for questions from the meal group and troubleshoot issues, providing assistance as needed
- Identify and try to resolve client and/or logistical issues and escalate to the onsite KSM staff member as needed
- Supervise the cleanup process ensuring the items on the KSM Kitchen Checklist are completed,
and ensuring the kitchen and dining hall are left in a clean state - Discuss suitability of leftover food with KSM staff and package or discard, as required
- Ensure kitchen waste bins are emptied and cleared to the appropriate compost, trash or recycling bin located outside of the building
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Previous kitchen experience is an asset
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to delegate, lead others and provide direction in a respectful manner
- Good time management and multi-tasking skills
- Excellent problem solving ability
- Food Handling Certification or willingness to obtain Food Handling Certification is an asset
Commitment: Minimum 3 month commitment
Training: Volunteer Training Manual, KSM Orientation, Food Handling Overview, Support from staff
Kerr Street After School Program Snack Volunteer
Working independently in the KSM kitchen, prepare and serve a healthy and nutritious snack for 15-30 elementary aged students, followed by cleanup. Open to volunteers 18+ and great for volunteers who wish to take summers off. Please review role description for immunization & TB test requirements.
- Friday 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm (starting January)
Position: Snack Volunteer
Supervisor: After School Program Lead
Objective: To prepare nutritious snacks for the children in the Kerr Street After School Program.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare snack for 15-30 children according to the menu and ingredients provided by KSM
- Follow safe food handling practices during food preparation and service
- Set up food service area prior to children’s arrival
- Plate/serve snack to participants
- Interact positively with children, following COVID-19 protocols
- Clean up dining area and kitchen in accordance with KSM guidelines
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Must be able to relate appropriately to children and exhibit positive role modeling
- Record of up to date immunizations (Diptheria/Tetanus/Poliomyelitis/Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Disclosure/record of COVID-19 vaccination status, and willingness to perform a rapid COVID test on site once per week (before shift)
- Results of a 1-step TB skin test done within last 6 months
- Clear and current Vulnerable Sector Check is required
- Safe Food Handling Certification is an asset but not required
Commitment: One school year from September to June following the Halton District School Board’s
holiday calendar.
Training: KSM Policy and Procedure Manual, Orientation, Support from After School Program Lead
Kerr Street After School Program Snack Support
Support the Kerr Street Afterschool Program by tidying up, clearing/washing dishes and cleaning kitchen surfaces after our afterschool snack. This role requires an ongoing weekly commitment until the end of June. Suitable for volunteers 14+ who are diligent and can work with minimal supervision.
- Thursdays 3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
KSM Front Desk Coverage
Help us welcome visitors, answer phones and direct queries by volunteering for our front desk. Weekly commitment required. Open to volunteers 18+
- Mondays 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm (for July)
- Tuesdays 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm (May to September)
- Wednesdays 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm (July)
- Thursdays 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm (ongoing)
- Fridays 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm (May to July)
Position: Front Desk Coverage
Supervisor: Front Office Supervisor
Objective: To receive and direct all personnel who come in contact via phone or in person with KSM.
Responsibilities:
- Warmly greet guests and clients; ensure all visitors, volunteers, and service personnel sign in
- Answer and direct calls, take messages and respond to inquiries
- Provide registration information for all new or prospective clients
- Receive payments and donations, complete receipt paperwork forms
- Briefly assess visitor needs in person and over the phone, determine if/ how KSM can help
- Familiarize yourself with Halton Region and Oakville community and social services, referring clients, community members, or donors to other organizations when applicable
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Strong communication skills, professionalism, organizational abilities
- Compassionate, empathetic, and respectful demeanour
- Ability to think calmly under pressure and respond graciously in stressful or emotional situations
- Compliance with mission and vision of Kerr Street Community Services
Commitment: Minimum 3 month commitment; must be present and on time for hours of relief coverage.
Training: KSM Annual Policy & Procedure Training; Orientation; Support from staff.
Toy Sanitizing Volunteer
Support KSM by cleaning and disinfecting the toys used by the children in the afterschool program. This role requires an ongoing weekly commitment until the end of June. Suitable for volunteers 16+ who are diligent and can work independently.
- Fridays 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Position: Toy Sanitizing Volunteer
Supervisor: After School Program Lead
Objective: To uphold a high standard of cleanliness for the toys and equipment used by the children in our After School Program.
Responsibilities:
- Sanitizing program toys and materials by running them through the KSM dishwasher/sanitizer unit
- Wiping down and sanitizing wooden and specialty toys/structures that cannot go through the sanitizer by hand
- Ensuring toys are properly dried and returned to designated bins/shelves
Performing light laundry duties (e.g. puppets) using the on-site washer & dryer - Maintaining records of toy sanitization and signing off on items in the After School Program log book
Requirements:
- Must be 16+
- Diligence and attention to detail
- Vulnerable Sector Screening required if 18 or older
Commitment: Weekly commitment for the duration of the school year (September to June)
Training: KSM Policy and Procedure Manual, Orientation, Support from After School Team Lead
KSM General Volunteer Application - Future Opportunity
Interested in a volunteer opportunity that is not listed? Please fill out an application to express your interest in future opportunities. We will place your name on our waitlist for a period of 3-6 months and will reach out if a role opens up in your area of interest and availability.
Kerr Street After School Program Support
Provide support to our KSM staff in our licensed after school program, geared to children aged 4-11. This role is open to volunteers 14+. Please review the job description for more details on responsibilities and requirements.
- Monday 3:30* – 6:00pm
- Tuesday 3:30* – 6:00pm
- Wednesday 3:30* – 6:00pm
- Thursday 3:30* – 6:00pm
*Start time is flexible
Position: Kerr Street After School Program (KSAP) Support
Supervisor: After School Program Lead
Objective: To assist with COVID-19 protocols, actively participate in all aspects of the program and to build meaningful relationships with KSAP children. .
Responsibilities:
- Assist program staff in screening guardians who are picking up their children. (Asking COVID-19
screening questions and taking temperature) - Assist program staff in following COVID-19 cleaning/sanitizing protocols
- Assist program staff in any other area of the Kerr Street After School Program, whether it is
set-up, take-down, helping with snack, cleaning, or playing games - Interact with the children and any activity they are participating in (reading, building, board
games, crafts, etc.) - Provide children with individual, one-on-one attention and time
Requirements:
- Must be 14+
- Must enjoy being around children and interacting with them
- Must be reliable and able to relate well to children
- Record of up to date immunizations (Diptheria/Tetanus/Poliomyelitis/Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Disclosure/record of COVID-19 vaccination status, and willingness to perform a rapid COVID test on site once per week (before shift)
- Results of a 1-step TB skin test done within last 6 months
- For volunteers 18+ a clear and current Vulnerable Sector Check is required
Commitment: September to June (throughout the school year).
Training: Children’s Program Policy & Procedure Training; Orientation; Support from staff.
Market Greeter & Screener
Greet incoming clients and perform health screening to maintain a safe environment at KSM. Open to volunteers 18+.
- Monday 12:45 pm – 2:30 pm
- Thursday 9:45 am – 11:30 am
Position: Market Greeter & Screener
Time: Various
Supervisor(s): Food Services Team
Objective: To greet and screen clients coming to KSM to utilize our market services.
Responsibilities:
- Greet clients as they enter KSM
- Wearing a mandatory mask and face-shield (gloves optional), go through the COVID questionnaire with each client
- Take each clients temperature using an infrared thermometer
- Record each client’s name and temperature information in the binder provided
- Advise clients that do not pass the COVID screening that they may not enter the premises, and provide alternatives for acquiring their weekly allotment of food
- Direct clients who pass the COVID screening to the appropriate location
- Help manage the flow of clients through the physically distanced line-up, communicating with other volunteers/staff by walkie talkie as needed
- Escalate any issues to KSM staff
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Ability to wear a mask and optional gloves/face shield for the duration of time at KSM
- Ability to work independently
- Ability to be firm and consistent in approach to screening
- Friendly disposition
Commitment: Minimum 3 month commitment, one 2 hour shift per week
Training: Volunteer Training Manual, KSM Orientation, Support from staff
Warehouse Volunteer
Help to organize our food inventory and replenish our shelves on a weekly basis. Heavy lifting is required. Open to ages 18+.
- Thursday 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Position: Warehouse Volunteer
Supervisor(s): Warehouse Supervisor
Objective: To ensure food is received, sorted, packaged and ready for distribution to clients.
Responsibilities:
- Receive food deliveries
- Greet food donors, weigh and record food donations
- Sort food based on category and store in the appropriate location
- Assist with the first in, first out flow of food. Shuffle crates and boxes of food in the warehouse as needed
- Organize food in refrigeration units
- Replenish food in the market as required
- Keep warehouse and sorting area clean and organized
- Maintain a courteous and professional manner with staff and other volunteers
- Occasionally accompany KSM staff to go offsite and pick up donations
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Ability to lift 40-50 pounds with ease
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Good multi-tasking skills
- Ability to take direction
- Good problem solving ability
- Attention to detail
Commitment: Minimum 3 month commitment
Training: Volunteer Training Manual, KSM Orientation, Support from staff
Bread Bagging Volunteer
Help us package and display fresh, donated bread for pick-up by our clients. Open to volunteers aged 18+.
- Fridays 8:30am – 10:00am
- Tuesdays 8:30am – 10:00am
Position: Cobs Bread Delivery Volunteers (Volunteer Pairs required, students welcome)
Supervisor(s): Cobs Volunteer Coordinator
Objective: To transport bread from Cobs Bread (Lakeshore) to Kerr Street Mission in a
timely fashion.
Responsibilities:
- Two people are required at a time to perform this task
- Using your vehicle, arrive at Cobs Bread Lakeshore Road location when the store closes and package up all of the unsold product which Cobs donates to Kerr Street Mission
- Use gloves and bags provided by Cobs to ensure sanitary packaging of the bread products
- Load up your vehicle and deliver the packaged bread to the volunteers/staff at the Kerr Street Mission
Requirements:
- One person in the volunteer pair must be 18+ with a valid drivers’ license and access to a vehicle
- Punctuality
- Ability to lift approximately 20 pounds of bread product
- Diligence to complete the job in a thorough and timely manner
- Good problem solving ability
Commitment: One hour per week, or as many days of the week you would like to volunteer.
Training: Procedures and on-site training
Christmas Wonders Toy Coordinator
Become a member of our Christmas Wonders team by leading and managing the toy component of the program. Open to volunteers aged 18+.
- August to December, with volunteer hours increasing in December
Position: Christmas Wonders Toy Coordinator
Supervisor(s): Christmas Wonders Lead
Objective: To provide families with the opportunity to select toys for their children and brighten their holiday season.
Responsibilities:
- Attend Christmas Wonders planning meetings and provide input and feedback as to how this years’ program will be run
- Using past data as a guideline, estimate the number of children that will be participating in the Christmas Wonders program
- Co-ordinate toy donations and deliveries with the Oakville Fire and Police Departments to ensure KSM’s needs are met
- Work with KSM staff to arrange toy storage and organization leading up to the toy distribution dates.
- With KSM staff, create a plan for leftover toys (donations or storage)
- Estimate the number of volunteers that will be required leading up to and including the distribution dates and provide this info to KSM’s volunteer coordinator
- Lead a group of volunteers in the set up of the toy distribution area
- Participate and lead groups of volunteers during the toy distribution sessions
- Lead a group of volunteers in the teardown, boxing and storage of leftover toys
Recommended Skills & Abilities:
- Sense of ownership and ability to work with autonomy to achieve the objectives defined by KSM
- Strong organizational and management skills
- Well developed multi-tasking capability
- Ability to lead and work well with people, providing direction in a kind and respectful manner
- Strong problem-solving ability
- A humble heart
- Desire to provide a dignified and positive experience to families in need
Requirements:
- Suitable for volunteers 18+
- Current Vulnerable Sector Check
- Flexible schedule. The number of volunteer hours increases significantly in December
- Relevant work or volunteer experience
Group Volunteer Opportunities
Community Meals
Seeking groups of 5-10 volunteers (aged 14+, under 18’s need adult supervision) who are available to purchase, prepare and:
Package 50 takeout evening meals for our clients on Tuesdays until the end of August. The kitchen is available from 3:45 – 6:30 pm. We provide take out containers but ask for a $50 donation towards the cost of these.
Serve 32 dine-in meals, and prepare and package 40 takeout evening meals, on Wednesdays and Mondays (September onwards). The kitchen is available from 3:45 – 8:00 pm.
Serve 32 dine-in breakfasts, and prepare and package 40 take out breakfasts, on Saturday mornings. The kitchen is available from 7:30am.
General meal guidelines are available and we have meal plans available for all days. From July 1st we will be able to pre-order ingredients for Weds and Monday (72 portion) meal plans (prices to be confirmed).
Volunteers need to be 14+ to work in the kitchen and any under 18’s will need adult supervision.
Please contact Linda at meals@kerrstreet.com for further information and available dates.
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