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Racing Readers: Lead Volunteer (Honorarium) | Tues or Wed

In-Person

Have fun with kids AND help them learn!

Racing Readers is a collaboration between the SFU Surrey–TD Community Engagement Centre and the Surrey School District (SD36). This after-school program seeks to improve the physical, educational and social well-being of elementary-aged students in Grades 2–5. Children participate in physical activities, reading, writing and numeracy exercises, and enjoy a healthy snack. High school, university and adult mentors (like you!) foster companionship, support, encouragement, and learning.

Opportunity Description

The SFU Surrey – TD Community Engagement Centre (SFU Surrey - TD CEC) is looking for 2 SFU students to fill the role of Lead Volunteer for the Racing Readers program on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm. 

The Lead Volunteer performs the following duties, with oversight from the Program and Volunteer Supervisor:

  • Attends the volunteer training component(s) in October; 
  • Attends ALL the Racing Readers sessions for their recruited time period; 
  • Supports the Program and Volunteer Supervisor with development of activities for each session;
  • Supports leading program activities, manages the schedule of activities under the direction of the Program and Volunteer Supervisor; 
  • Communicates any concerns to the Program and Volunteer Supervisor (or the Program Manager); 
  • Supports overseeing the program and students at the site, and ensures it runs smoothly; 
  • Meets and communicates with the Program and Volunteer Supervisor outside of Racing Readers site hours, as needed; 
  • Assists Program and Volunteer Supervisor with teaching the material when necessary;
  • Responds and takes initiative throughout session to check in on volunteers as they work in their teams;
  • Provides support and feedback to volunteers;
  • Is prepared to take on any of the responsibilities of the Program and Volunteer Supervisor at a moment's notice, if necessary;
  • Handles problems that arise independently and with initiative;
  • Writes a short one-page report after serving as Lead Volunteer (reflections on personal and professional development, how the program went, successes, challenges and any suggestions for improvement). 

Benefits:

  • Personal and professional development – build your:
    • Communications skills,
    • Leadership skills,
    • Time management,
    • Organizational skills.
  • Upon successful completion of the role after the designated time period, the Lead Volunteer will receive: 
    • Recognition for your service on SFU’s Co-Curricular Record, 
    • A $200 honorarium 

Timeframe:

The schedule for this role is as follows.

Fall 2024: 

  • September 9th – October 11th (prep and volunteer training)   
  • October 14th – December 6th (program is running)

Spring 2025:

  • January 6th - January 24th (prep and volunteer training)
  • January 27th - March 14th (program is running)
  • March 31st - April 11th (program is running)

Summer 2025:

  • April 21st - May 2nd (prep and volunteer training)
  • May 5th - June 27th (program is running)
  • June 30th - July 4th (wrap up and report writing)

Generally, we expect the incumbent to be volunteering approximately 5 hours per week. 

Locations: 

  • Tuesdays
    • Georges Vanier Elementary School (6985 142 St, Surrey)
  • Wednesdays
    • Betty Huff Elementary School (13055 Huntley Ave, Surrey)

Requirements

  • Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree at SFU, with previous experience in: working with children in a recreation or school setting; volunteer coordination; program coordination; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience;

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills; 

  • Excellent interpersonal and conflict management skills; 

  • Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills; 

  • Willingness to take initiative and problem-solve independently;

  • Clean criminal record check (this will be a condition for employment. If you are being considered as a candidate, we will provide more information on how to get this requirement completed). 

Application Process:

To apply, email Saba Fatemi, Program Manager (sfatemi@sfu.ca) your resume and answers to the following questions: 

  1. Why do you want to apply for this position?
  2. What personal and professional strengths or relevant experiences would you bring to the position?
  3. Why is it vital to engage children and youth in the City of Surrey?

Deadline: Wednesday, August 21, 2024 | 11:59 PM

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted via email with an interview invitation.

 
 
Collection Notice: The information collected as part of the application process is under the authority of the University Act (R.S.B.C. 1996, c.468). It is related directly to and needed by the University to administer the volunteer program through the SFU Surrey – TD Community Engagement Centre. The information will be used to screen volunteer applicants, refer applicants to opportunities of interest, and update applicants with information related to volunteer opportunities. If you have any questions about the collection and use of this information please contact Associate Director, Partnerships and Programs, 250-13450 102 Avenue, Surrey BC, V3T 0A3, 778-782-8082.    

Apply now!

Ready to learn about volunteering with the community as an SFU ambassador? Join the Community Engagement Volunteer Training Program.

Learn more

This opportunity is recognized on the Co-Curricular Record (CCR), an official university document that tracks your co-curricular involvement at SFU. Learn more about the Co-Curricular Record at www.sfu.ca/students/get-involved/recognition/co-curricular-record.

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