High School Volunteer Program

Program Overview

The Sport Western Summer Camps Volunteer Program provides high school students with a structured, hands-on opportunity to earn their 40 mandatory volunteer hours while supporting high-quality, active summer camp experiences. Volunteers work closely with Sport Western staff and campers in a safe, fun, and educational environment, gaining valuable transferable skills along the way.

This program is designed for students who are enthusiastic, responsible, and interested in sport, recreation, leadership, or working with children. At this time, only high school students are eligible for these volunteer positions.

Volunteer Role & Responsibilities

Volunteers will be assigned to a specific camp week and will primarily shadow a Camp Instructor. Under staff supervision, volunteers may assist with the following:

1. Instructor Support

• Shadow an assigned Camp Instructor throughout the week
• Assist with delivering daily lesson plans and activity setups
• Help demonstrate drills, games and exercises alongside staff

2. Camp Operations & Activity Support

• Assist with setting up and taking down sport and recreation equipment
• Help organize games, drills and group activities
• Support smooth transitions between activities and breaks

3. Camper Supervision & Engagement

• Actively supervise campers during activities, water breaks and transitions
• Encourage participation, teamwork and positive behaviour
• Provide guidance and support to campers as needed

4. Safety & Inclusion

• Help maintain a safe, inclusive and respectful camp environment
• Follow all Sport Western safety protocols and staff instructions
• Report any concerns to the Instructor or Group Leader immediately
• Note: Volunteers do not lead activities independently or provide discipline but support staff under direct supervision.

Time Commitment

• Volunteers commit to one full camp week (typically Monday–Friday)
• Daily hours align with camp operating times (8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)
• Total hours earned will be documented and verified by Sport Western

Volunteer Expectations

To ensure a positive experience for campers & staff, volunteers are expected to demonstrate the following:

Professional Conduct

• Arrive on time each day and be prepared to participate
• Follow Sport Western policies, procedures and instructions from staff
• Dress appropriately for physical activity and outdoor conditions

Attentiveness & Reliability

• Remain engaged and attentive during all camp activities
• Actively support campers rather than using personal devices
• Communicate absences or concerns to supervisors in advance

Maturity & Leadership

• Model positive behaviour, teamwork and respect at all times
• Use appropriate language and interactions with campers and staff
• Take initiative while understanding boundaries of the volunteer role

Safety Awareness

• Prioritize camper safety and well-being
• Follow emergency procedures and report incidents promptly

Skills & Experience Gained

By participating in the Sport Western Summer Camps Volunteer Program, students can expect to develop and strengthen valuable skills, including:

Leadership & Communication

• Supporting group activities and interacting with diverse age groups
• Giving clear instructions and positive encouragement
• Working collaboratively with peers and staff

Responsibility & Time Management

• Managing daily commitments and punctuality
• Following schedules and organized programming

Teamwork & Collaboration

• Working as part of a coaching and camp team
• Supporting shared goals in a fast-paced environment

Problem-Solving & Adaptability

• Responding to changing activities, weather or camper needs
• Learning to think quickly and remain calm in new situations

Confidence & Professionalism

• Gaining experience in a structured workplace environment
• Building confidence in leadership and public interaction
  
  

Ideal Volunteer Profile

This program is best suited for students who:

• Enjoy working with children
• Are interested in sport, recreation, education or leadership
• Are dependable, energetic, and eager to learn

Volunteer Interest Form