Lead Club Connect (Volunteer Position)
Youth & Community Programs
Lower Mainland Down Syndrome Society (LMDSS)
Location: LMDSS Centre – #108-17828-65A Ave, Surrey, BC
Schedule: Bi-weekly Saturdays, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM, plus occasional planning meetings and preparation time.
Position Type: Volunteer Leadership Role
Position Summary
The Lead Club Connect Volunteer is responsible for helping plan, coordinate, and lead LMDSS's bi-weekly Club Connect program for youth and young adults with Down syndrome and autism. The Lead Volunteer works closely with participants, families, volunteers, and LMDSS staff to create a fun, safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment that encourages friendship, social connection, recreation, and community participation.
Key Responsibilities
Program Planning & Facilitation
- Help plan and lead engaging bi-weekly social and recreational activities.
- Prepare materials and supplies for each session.
- Assist with room setup and cleanup.
- Encourage participation and foster a positive group atmosphere.
- Support participants in developing social, communication, and life skills.
Participant Support & Safety
- Promote an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment.
- Use positive behavior support strategies.
- Assist participants with varying support needs.
- Monitor participant safety during activities and outings.
- Report concerns, incidents, or emergencies to the Executive Director.
Volunteer Leadership
- Welcome and support new volunteers.
- Assist with volunteer orientation and mentoring.
- Help assign volunteer roles and responsibilities during sessions.
- Encourage teamwork and positive volunteer engagement.
Family Communication
- Greet families and participants at programs and events.
- Assist with attendance tracking.
- Communicate participant's successes and concerns to LMDSS staff.
- Help distribute program reminders and updates when required.
Community Outings
- Assist with organizing community activities and outings.
- Support participants during community-based events.
- Promote accessibility, inclusion, and participant safety.
Qualifications
Required
- Experience working with individuals with Down syndrome, autism, or developmental disabilities.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Reliable, organized, and dependable.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Clear Criminal Record Check (CRRP).
- Commitment to LMDSS values of inclusion, respect, and community participation.
Preferred Assets
- First Aid with CPR-C/AED.
- Experience in recreation, youth leadership, education, support work, or community programming.
- Knowledge of autism, Down syndrome, AAC, visual support, or sensory support.
- Behavior supports training.
- Experience supervising or mentoring volunteers.
Time Commitment
- Bi-weekly Saturday evening sessions (6:30 PM – 8:00 PM).
- Occasionally, activities may be scheduled at different times to accommodate community events or special outings.
- Approximately 4 – 6 additional hours per month for planning, researching activities, booking venues, creating programs, setup, and cleanup.
- Volunteers are responsible for ensuring all activities are safe, inclusive, and appropriate for participants.
- Safety of students is the top priority at all times.
- Attendance at occasional LMDSS events is encouraged.
Benefits of Volunteering
- Make a meaningful difference in the lives of youth and young adults with Down syndrome and autism.
- Gain leadership and community programming experience.
- Develop skills in recreation, inclusion, and volunteer management.
- Receive a volunteer reference letter after successful service.
- Become part of a supportive and passionate community.
Screening Requirements
This position requires a Criminal Record Check (CRC) and completion of the LMDSS volunteer screening process prior to participation. Volunteers must maintain confidentiality, uphold safety standards, and follow all LMDSS policies and procedures.
How to Apply
Please send a resume and brief cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the position to: [email protected]
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
