Volunteer FAQ
Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I become a volunteer?
The first step is to check out the various volunteer opportunities that we offer (see here). Once you’ve identified the program that you’d like to join, either follow program specific instructions or drop the appropriate program coordinator an email expressing your interest in volunteering. You can also just show up to our drop-in garden volunteer sessions – check out the times and locations here.
What sort of volunteer opportunities does EYA offer?
EYA offers a range of volunteer opportunities to suite a range of skills and interests. Our four main current volunteer opportunities are: garden volunteers, outreach volunteers, Growing Kids volunteer interns, and volunteering as an EYA board member.
Is there a minimum age for volunteers?
Volunteers of all ages are welcome at the volunteer garden sessions and outreach events. If you’re under the age of 19, you should have a parent/guardian sign this parental consent form.
Growing Kids volunteer interns must be at least 18 years of age.
Do I have to be a youth to volunteer?
No, we welcome volunteers of all ages! While the majority of our volunteers fall into the 14-30 age range, people of all ages attend our sessions including seniors and young families.
Why do people volunteer with EYA?
Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds with a wide variety of interests and motivations for volunteering. Saying that, commonly reported reasons for volunteering include: a desire to gain experience of gardening/growing food, looking to make friends and connect with the community, wanting to gain experience in the environmental sector, or looking to complete community service hours.
Can I volunteer if I’m learning English?
Yes! We frequently have volunteers join our garden sessions that are currently learning English. Volunteering can be a great way to meet others and improve your language skills.
Can I bring my group/organization to volunteer with EYA?
We’d be happy to schedule a volunteer session / garden visit for your group. To learn more about the opportunities we offer please read the Volunteer Group Guidelines. The group volunteer application form is available here.
Can I earn my community service hours with EYA?
Yes. We are happy to sign your forms after you have you have completed your shift. We can also provide reference letters upon request detailing tasks and hours completed, so make sure that you sign in at each session so that we can log your hours.
Can you provide me with a letter of reference after volunteering with EYA?
Yes, we are happy to provide a letter of reference after 20 hours of volunteer service. Make sure that you sign in at each shift!
Do I need a police reference check?
A police reference check is not required for volunteering at the garden sessions or at outreach events. However, a police reference check is mandatory for participation in the Growing Kids volunteer intern program.
What sort of training will I receive?
For our garden volunteer sessions and outreach events, most of the training takes place on-the-job. We’ll provide an orientation to the site, a description of the planned activities and all necessary instructions for the tasks required.
Growing Kids volunteers will receive a short, introductory training session that will introduce volunteers to community and youth engagement, environmental education, plant propagation, and garden maintenance. On-going mentorship will also be provided by the Growing Kids coordinators.
What kind of commitment is required?
Required commitment varies between programs. For those joining our garden volunteer sessions, we appreciate a solid weekly commitment of at least 2 hours, but understand that busy schedules and life in general can make this difficult sometimes. For Growing Kids volunteers, click HERE for more info.
What does EYA expect of its volunteers?
We ask that volunteers be helpful. cooperative, and act as positive EYA ambassadors. We appreciate punctuality and ask that you notify us in the event that you’re unable to attend a volunteer session you’ve signed up for. You will be expected to uphold our commitment to respect and welcome people of diverse backgrounds and identities.
What can I expect of EYA as a volunteer?
In return for lending your service to EYA, you can expect to be granted learning opportunities, with training and support offered by staff and volunteers. You can also expect to be provided with a safe, welcoming working environment. We will extend invitations to several volunteer appreciation events throughout the year and keep you up-to-date with EYA’s activities through our once-monthly e-newsletter “The Buzz”.
Help, I have a question that isn’t on this list!
Not to worry – drop our Volunteer Coordinator an email at volunteer@eya.ca!
