Volunteer Program

Help bring nature programs to life at Downsview Park. Volunteers support education staff by welcoming participants, preparing activities, and helping community members connect with nature through programs such as Nature Connection and Jr. Forest Explorers.

What you'll do

• Help set up and clean up activities and program spaces.
• Welcome and assist participants during programs.
• Support education staff with program delivery.
• Prepare materials and supplies for activities.
• Help create a positive and welcoming environment for visitors.
• Share feedback and observations with staff.

What you'll gain

• Experience working with community and nature-based programs.
• Opportunities to meet new people and build connections.
• Knowledge of local nature, ecology, and environmental education.
• Leadership, communication, and facilitation skills.
• A chance to give back to your community and support meaningful experiences in the park.

We're looking for people who are

• Friendly, reliable, and eager to learn.
• Comfortable interacting with visitors of all ages.
• Interested in nature, education, or community engagement.
• Able to spend extended periods outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.

REQUIREMENTS 

• Clear criminal background check.
• Comfort with being outdoors for prolonged periods in all weather conditions.
• Work in compliance with the provisions of the applicable provincial Health and Safety legislation(s), regulations, and internal policies and procedures.
• Wear all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Park issued uniform when required. 
• Appropriate outdoor attire to protect against weather (i.e., hat, sunscreen, long pants, closed-toe shoes).

Assets

• Experience with outdoor programs, camps, or education activities.
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• Ability to speak more than one language.

Help care for and restore Downsview Park's natural areas. Park Stewards work alongside staff and other volunteers to improve habitat, support biodiversity, and help keep the park healthy, welcoming, and enjoyable for everyone.

What you'll do

• Plant native trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses.
• Help remove invasive plant species.
• Participate in ecological monitoring and stewardship projects.
• Collect and save native seeds for future restoration efforts.
• Support stewardship activities that improve habitat and biodiversity.
• Share observations about the park's ecological health and visitor use with staff.
• Engage with community members and help create a welcoming and inclusive park environment.

What you'll gain

• Hands-on experience in ecological restoration and environmental stewardship.
• Opportunities to connect with nature and spend time outdoors.
• Knowledge of local plants, wildlife, and ecosystems.
• Experience working alongside park staff and fellow volunteers.
• Volunteer hours for OSSD, where applicable.
• The satisfaction of making a meaningful contribution to the health of Downsview Park.

We're looking for people who are

• Friendly, respectful, and eager to learn.
• Interested in nature, conservation, and community stewardship.
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
• Willing to engage with visitors from diverse backgrounds.
• Comfortable spending extended periods outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.

Requirements

• A clear criminal background check.
• Ability to represent Downsview Park in a friendly and professional manner.
• Ability to volunteer at agreed-upon times on a consistent basis.
• Willingness to work in compliance with applicable health and safety legislation, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Willingness to wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and park-issued uniforms when required.
• Appropriate outdoor attire for varying weather conditions (for example, a hat, sunscreen, long pants, and closed-toe shoes).

Additional Information

• Stewardship activities may involve physical tasks such as digging, planting, kneeling, crouching, and lifting. Accommodations or modifications may be possible and can be discussed in advance.

Help create a welcoming and vibrant experience for everyone who visits Downsview Park. Park Ambassadors connect with visitors, share information about park programs and amenities, and help foster a safe, inclusive, and engaging community.

What you'll do

• Welcome visitors and help answer questions about the park.
• Share information about programs, events, volunteer opportunities, and amenities.
• Provide directions and assist visitors as needed.
• Promote park activities and initiatives.
• Help create a positive, safe, and inclusive environment for all visitors.
• Share observations and feedback about park use and visitor experiences with staff.
• Build connections with community members and support community engagement.

What you'll gain

• Experience engaging with diverse communities and the public.
• Opportunities to build communication and customer service skills.
• Knowledge of Downsview Park's programs, events, and natural spaces.
• Experience working alongside park staff and fellow volunteers.
• A chance to help people discover and enjoy the park.
• Meaningful volunteer experience that supports your community.

We're looking for people who are

• Friendly, approachable, and enthusiastic.
• Comfortable speaking with new people and answering questions.
• Interested in community engagement and creating positive visitor experiences.
• Reliable and able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Comfortable spending extended periods outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.

Requirements

• A clear criminal background check.
• Ability to represent Downsview Park in a friendly and professional manner.
• Ability to volunteer at agreed-upon times
• Willingness to work in compliance with applicable health and safety legislation, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Willingness to wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and park-issued uniforms when required.
• Appropriate outdoor attire for varying weather conditions (for example, a hat, sunscreen, long pants, and closed-toe shoes).

Additional Information

• Volunteers should be comfortable spending extended periods walking or standing outdoors.
• We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and encourage participation from people who reflect the diversity of our community.