Thank you so much for your interest in volunteering in Root to Rise Group programs.
Why volunteer with Us?
This volunteer opportunity offers a hands-on experience to support children's development under the guidance of an experienced occupational therapist. This is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring occupational therapists and anyone interested in pediatric therapies.
Volunteer Benefits:
- Get to observe children's development of social skills, motor skills, regulation skills and more
- Real life glance at what it is like to be a pediatric therapist
- Sit in on virtual parent sessions to observe all the avenues therapists use to support skill building
- Get practical experience in an engaging outdoor environment that stimulates the senses.
- Learn about various areas of development such as social skills, motor skills, sensory processing, emotional regulation, nervous system regulation and more
- Earn community service hours applicable to academic requirements, future internships, or personal enrichment.
- Witness firsthand the unique skills and progress made in children's developmental journeys.
- Receive a letter of recommendation for academic or professional pursuits.
- Network with others who share your enthusiasm for child development and the outdoors.
- Observe how various evidence informed frameworks and interventions are implemented
- Enjoy time spent in nature while contributing meaningfully and having fun!
We’re looking for enthusiastic energetic individuals who are comfortable engaging with children and being in the forest!
Volunteers play an integral role in the success of our program, and your support is deeply valued.
Each class includes approximately 8 children, ages 5-10, along with a lead occupational therapist and 1-3 student volunteers.
Semesters run across 6 consecutive weeks throughout the year on Saturdays 9:30- 11:00am.
New volunteers will participate in one in person or virtual training session prior to their first group.
Note: Groups will run during the whole year so if you can't attend these groups but are interested in joining future groups please complete the application. I will send out updates when new groups are scheduled.
Your Responsibilities Include:
- Arriving 15 minutes early to help with environmental setup
- Warmly greeting children and guiding them on where to go
- Building connection with children to support their movement or building play when asked
- Encouraging basic common-sense safety
- Offering assistance when asked, observing interactions between kids, supporting social interactions when opportunities a rise
- Accompanying children to the washroom from the group space
- Staying 15 minutes after the session to support environmental cleanup
- Participating in a debriefing during cleanup
This form is the first step of the application process. To be accepted as a volunteer, you must be demonstrate good communication skills through responsive emails, complete intake paperwork at least two weeks before start date and attend one training session (may be in person or virtual). Submitting this application does not guarantee a volunteer position.
Questions?
If you have any questions or need additional details, please email me at allison@risepediatrics.com
Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a meaningful impact while gaining invaluable hands-on experience. We look forward to hearing from you!
For more information go to: www.risepediatrics.com