Youth Guitar Program Volunteer

Join the Y Volunteer Team!

Be the Spark! Join our passionate team and be the spark that ignites the potential in others. YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is one of the largest not-for-profit providers of licensed child care in Canada, offers settlement services to newcomers to Canada, operates 2 overnight camps and 15 Health & Fitness branches across Southwestern Ontario, and we have been making a positive difference in the communities we serve for over 50 years!

Position: Youth Guitar Program Volunteer

Location: Centre Branch YMCA

As Part of Being a Volunteer

·       Receive a complimentary YMCA personal membership to our Health & Fitness facilities

·       Be part of a caring and supportive network of people helping each other succeed

·       Contribute to a meaningful impact in the lives of children and youth

·       Develop leadership, communication, and mentorship skills

·       Gain experience supporting music and arts-based programming

Program Description

The Youth Guitar Program Volunteer supports youth in delivering a fun, safe, and inclusive guitar learning experience. Lessons are one-on-one and 30-minute sessions biweekly. Volunteers help participants build confidence, develop basic musical skills, and foster a positive sense of belonging while reflecting the YMCA's mission and core values.

Core Responsibilities

·       Setting up and preparing lesson materials and equipment

·       Welcome participants and help create a positive, inclusive environment

·       Support Youth during guitar lessons and activities

·       Provide encouragement and basic guidance while participants practice skills

·       Assist with attendance, program transitions, and end-of-program clean-up

·       Help maintain a safe and organized program space

·       Address behaviours inconsistent with YMCA core values and promptly report concerns to staff

·       Maintain regular communication with the Program Supervisor or Child & Youth Manager

·       Complete all required YMCA volunteer onboarding, training, and online learning modules

·       Act as an ambassador for the YMCA and model positive behaviour

Qualifications

·       Minimum age: Volunteers may begin as early as the summer before entering Grade 9. 

·       Interest in music, guitar, and working with youth

·       Basic guitar knowledge/ ability to teach guitar

·       Original Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening (required for volunteers 18 years and older)

·       First Aid and CPR certification is an asset

·       Friendly, enthusiastic, and dependable

·       Positive role model with strong interpersonal skills

·       Ability to work as part of a team

·       Genuinely interested in supporting YMCA programs and youth development

·       Minimum commitment of 4 months, 3 hours per week