Volunteer Session Support Assistant

Position Overview

Volunteer/Unpaid

As a Volunteer Session Support Assistant at Elysian, you will have the rewarding opportunity to assist our staff in delivering engaging and educational sessions that incorporate farm, learning, and animal-assisted activities for children, young people, families, and other clients. You will work closely with our dedicated staff members, providing valuable support to ensure the smooth running of sessions and enhance the overall experience for our participants.

Key Responsibilities

Session Preparation: Assist staff in preparing materials, equipment, and resources needed for sessions. This may include setting up activity stations, arranging learning materials, and ensuring that all necessary supplies are readily available.

Participant Engagement: Engage with participants, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. Foster positive interactions, encourage participation, and provide support as needed to ensure a positive experience for all participants.

Activity Assistance: Support staff in delivering farm, learning, and animal-assisted activities to participants. This may involve providing guidance, demonstrating activities, and assisting participants in completing tasks or challenges.

Safety Monitoring: Maintain a vigilant approach to participant safety during sessions. Pay close attention to participants' well-being, ensuring adherence to safety guidelines and promptly reporting any concerns to staff members.

Animal Care Support: Assist in the care and handling of animals during animal-assisted activities. Follow staff instructions for safe and appropriate animal interactions, ensuring the well-being and welfare of the animals at all times.

Documentation and Record Keeping: Help in maintaining accurate and up-to-date records related to session attendance, participant progress, and any relevant observations or incidents. Assist staff in completing required documentation promptly and accurately.

Equipment and Area Cleanliness: Support staff in maintaining a clean and organized session environment. Assist in tidying activity areas, sanitizing equipment, and ensuring that materials are properly stored after use.

Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with staff and other volunteers to create a positive and cohesive team dynamic. Contribute to a supportive and respectful working environment, promoting effective communication and cooperation.

Qualifications and Skills
- Genuine interest in working with children, young people, families, and other clients in an educational and recreational setting.
- Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and communicate effectively with participants of various ages and backgrounds.
- Reliable, punctual, and committed to fulfilling assigned responsibilities.
- Enthusiastic and approachable, with a friendly and welcoming demeanor.
- Ability to follow instructions and work collaboratively as part of a team.
- Basic knowledge of animal care and handling practices is desirable but not essential.
- Physical fitness and ability to engage in active sessions, including walking, bending, and standing for extended periods.

**Requirements**:

- Minimum age requirement: Usually 18 (some exceptions made for work placements)
- Willingness to undergo any necessary training and orientation related to session support, including safety protocols and procedures.
- Compliance with Elysian's policies and procedures, including the completion of necessary forms and agreements.
- Availability to commit to a regular schedule and maintain punctuality and reliability.
- Please note that this volunteer position may involve working outdoors in various weather conditions and may require flexibility in terms of assigned tasks and working hours.

If you are passionate about supporting meaningful and engaging sessions for children, young people, families, and other clients at Elysian, we invite you to join our team as a Volunteer Session Support Assistant. Your dedication and commitment will contribute to creating memorable experiences and fostering a positive learning environment for our participants.
- Please note Elysian does not do sponsorship visas_

**Job Types**: Full-time, Part-time, Temporary, Volunteer, Permanent

Expected hours: 8 - 40 per week

Schedule:

- Day shift
- Holidays
- Monday to Friday
- Weekend availability

Work Location: In person