We need YOU! Volunteering is easy and accessible at the WRC
Each year, about 175 volunteer roles support Westmount Sports and Recreation to bring programmes and special events to life. Without them, many youth sports and beloved events wouldn’t be possible. Volunteering is open to all and here’s why you should get involved.
No special skills or big commitment necessary!
There are volunteer roles for everyone, no matter your skillset or how little time you have to offer. Volunteering at special events is a great low-commitment opportunity for those with little to no experience and who want to have an impact. From handing out hot chocolate at the Winter Carnival to monitoring safe play on inflatables at Family Day, many roles are simply about lending an extra set of hands while having fun. Higher involvement roles like coaching youth sports are also more accessible than you might think. Training is provided when needed, and groups of people can sign up to share responsibilities. A group of parents might sign up to coach a team together, for example, and rotate who goes on the field each week. As Andrew Maislin, Operations Manager for the Sports and Recreation Department puts it, “the kids benefit from having different coaches, different perspectives, different skills.” Everyone’s unique involvement benefits the community.
Get back more than you give.
The great secret of volunteering is how it allows you to do more with the time you give. Whether you want to develop active habits, make friends, learn a new skill or spend time outside, volunteering is a great way to achieve your personal goals while giving back. Did you know the free training provided to hockey coaches certifies you to coach anywhere in Canada? Or that students with community service requirements can get their hours in at the Westmount Recreation Centre (WRC), for example by refereeing their sibling’s soccer matches? Those who are already dropping off or picking up a young person involved in sports can make the most of that commute by getting involved with the team. It’s a great way to show encouragement for both the youth in your life and the community — and it’s already synched with your schedule! Jennifer Heaps, Administrative Officer for Westmount’s Sports and Recreation Department adds, “we see generational involvement. I remember these parents that were involved and now I see their kids. By volunteering you’re instilling community values [in your family].” The benefits for everyone truly extend beyond the time you’re able to give.
“I started here as a volunteer referee over 25 years ago, as a teen,” confesses Andrew, who couldn’t have known at the time that his involvement would lead to a fulfilling career in sports and recreation at the City. “When people enjoy getting involved and we see them grow within the Westmount community, that’s the ultimate goal,” adds Jennifer.
Sign up now to volunteer for spring activities at the WRC! Many positions still need to be filled to ensure every kid gets to play. Volunteer enrolment is open year-round, with additional need in the spring and fall during activities registration. Sign up as an individual or as a group by completing the volunteer registration form — signal your interest for a particular role in sports or for occasional help at special events. If you have questions, send an email to recreation@westmount.org or call the WRC at 514 989-5353.