Ready For School Volunteer
Location: Nipissing
Time Commitment: August 14 (plus optional prep day prior to event)
Reports to: Regional Program Coordinator
Role Summary: Ready For School Volunteers play an essential role in making back-to-school shopping a positive, empowering experience for children ages 4–13 from families facing financial hardship. Volunteers help create a welcoming, supportive environment during each child’s personalized shopping experience at the mall.
Key Responsibilities:
Greeting & Wayfinding: Welcome children and their caregivers as they arrive. Direct them to their assigned shopping assistant and answer basic questions.
Shopping Support: Accompany children (and/or their caregiver) during their shopping appointment. Offer encouragement, help find sizing, and support them in selecting clothing, outerwear, and school supplies that fit their needs and bring them confidence.
Logistics Support: Help organize school supplies and gift cards (if applicable). Re-stock or tidy designated areas of the shopping route. Track time and help keep families on schedule during their appointments. Warmth & Inclusion: Foster a fun, respectful atmosphere that makes children feel seen, valued, and excited for the school year.
Ideal Qualities: Friendly, patient, and compassionate. Comfortable interacting with children and diverse families. Able to stand and walk for up to 2–3 hours at a time (some roles may be seated). Reliable and punctual.
Benefits to the Volunteer: Help give a child a confident start to the school year. Connect with your community and other caring volunteers. Be part of a heartwarming and impactful initiative.
Additional Notes: Volunteers may be required to complete a brief orientation or submit a Vulnerable Sector Check depending on role. Light refreshments may be provided on-site.
