Gardener Volunteer

Volunteer Gardeners assist in caring for and maintaining the garden areas surrounding Rideaucrest Home. Under the supervision of the Supervisor of Resident Programs and Services, and the Head Volunteer Gardener, you will help plan, plant, water, and maintain garden spaces.

Volunteers can choose to work in communal garden spaces or individual garden plots. This seasonal role runs from May to October. Volunteer Gardeners should have a passion for gardening and enjoy creating beautiful spaces that enhance the environment for residents and their families.

Key duties and responsibilities

• Physical gardening and maintenance tasks  (approx. 60% of time)
  • Weeding, watering, shovelling, and general garden upkeep
  • Maintaining cleanliness and organization of garden areas
• Seasonal planting of new plants and removal (approx. 15% of time)
  • Planting new plants in the spring and removing plants in the fall
• Interacting with residents, staff, families, and caregivers in garden areas (approx. 15% of time)
  • Engaging with the community while working in the garden
  • Offering opportunities for residents to participate in garden activities when appropriate
• Planning and acquiring plants (approx. 10% of time)
  • Assisting with the selection and placement of plants in the garden
  • Helping acquire necessary plants and gardening supplies
• Maintaining garden tools and equipment (approx. 5% of time)
  • Cleaning and caring for gardening tools, hoses and implements
  • Reporting any damaged or broken equipment
• Other duties as assigned (approx. 5% of time)

Qualifications

Required:

• Enrolled in, or graduate of secondary school 
• Excellent communication skills and ability to engage with diverse groups
• Good physical condition for gardening tasks

Preferred:

• Knowledge and strong interest in gardening
• Experience with general garden tools and equipment
• Understanding of ergonomics and safe gardening techniques
• Experience working with diverse populations
• Certifications in:
  • First aid and CPR
  • Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) 

Other requirements

• Comfort working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to bend, lift, crouch, and engage in repetitive movements such as pruning, raking, shovelling, and watering
• Ability to stand or kneel for extended periods while gardening
• Completion of health requirements, including:
  • Negative 2-Step Tuberculosis Testing
  • Seasonal influenza vaccination
• Adaptability to changes in assignments due to disease outbreaks or resident and facility needs
• Promptly report hazards, accidents, or personal injuries to supervisors or registered staff
• Vulnerable Sector Check. Learn more about how to get your Criminal Record Check.