Volunteer Driver
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Volunteer Types: Emergency Services, Human rights, Transportation of people, Transportation of goods, Others
Organization types: Community and Social Services, Women, Special Interests, Human Rights and Civil Liberties, LGBTQIA2+, Children, Youth and Family
Long term (6 months to a year)
Application Deadline: March 3, 2025
Posted on:
Description

Access to moving and storage services are significant barriers to fleeing abuse. Drivers are an integral part of why we are able to support our clients in overcoming these barriers. Shelter Movers Ottawa provides moving and storage services at no cost to individuals fleeing abuse and/or violence. We provide this service within Ottawa as well as Lanark County. We are the only organization of our kind in Canada, and our volunteers are no less exceptional. You DO NOT NEED your own vehicle just need to be 21yrs+ and have a Full G license. Our selfless volunteer drivers are the ‘helping hands’ and ’boots on the ground’ devoting time and energy to help those who’ve found the courage to leave. We’d love to have you on our team!

Responsibilities
Please note, the main distinction between a mover and a driver is that in addition to typical move day tasks such as packing boxes, loading our moving trucks/vehicles, and unloading trucks/vehicles, drivers also responsible for driving the vehicle they signed up to drive. Vehicles used range from passenger car, minivan, cargo van up to a cube truck.
-Meet the volunteer team (including other Movers and Drivers) at an arranged time and place
-Transport belongings, client(s) and/or team to a predetermined location
-Maintain communication with Lead Mover and team
-Uphold Shelter Movers’ protocols and procedure sand respect client confidentiality
-Complete typical move day tasks such as driving assigned vehicle, packing boxes, loading our moving trucks/vehicles, and un-loading trucks/vehicles with team
-Be aware of trauma-informed care when interacting with clients (training will be provided)
-Work with private security and law enforcement when necessary
-Children may accompany clients on a move, but volunteers do not provide child care and have limited interaction with children. Child care and supervision is provided by clients or our agency partners.

Time Commitment
Flexible commitment, volunteer movers can sign up for moves based on their own availability as their schedules permits. Most moves average around 4 hours, depending on distance and complexity duration may vary. A minimum of 1-2 moves a month is encouraged.

Requirements
– Must be 21 years or older and have full G license to be a driver (18yrs or older to be a mover)
– Complete a brief phone interview
-Must be living in Canada for 6 months or more to be able to complete a Canadian Criminal Record Check
-Attend Trauma-Informed Orientation, sign Volunteer Code of Conduct and Confidentiality Agreement
– No previous experience or education is required but must have ability to remain calm in potentially stressful situations situation
– Maturity, good judgment, ability to adapt to changes while working as a team
– Have reliable access to e-mail and phone
– Required to maintain confidentiality and attend ongoing training sessions as needed

How to apply:
To express your interest in this role, please email [email protected], and quote “Volunteer Driver” in the subject line. We will provide you with instructions for next steps!

How will this opportunity benefit the volunteer?
Volunteers will gain hands-on experience on the front lines of our organization, providing moving and storage services for our clients in rural communities. You’ll receive trauma-informed training in preparation for your role, and have access to ongoing training opportunities(i.e mover/driver training sessions facilitated by professionals). You’ll work with a great team of passionate volunteers and supporters. Movers who complete 3 moves within the previous 3 months can receive a confirmation of volunteering.
How will the organization benefit?
Shelter Movers Ottawa is a volunteer powered organization founded in response to Gender Based Violence in our communities. We are able to provide a much needed service because of our compassionate and selfless volunteers. Expanding our team of Volunteer Movers allows us to complete a greater number of moves. Increase in the number of volunteers translates into us being able to help even more families and individuals as they transition to a new beginning and a safe home. Come join our fantastic team!

Contact

Shelter Movers Ottawa
@Shelter Movers
Time it will take to contact applicants:
​1-6-days

Details

This position would be great for: Young Adults (19-24), Groups, Adults
Number of Positions Available: 10
Good for people interested in: Emergency Services, Human rights, Transportation of people, Transportation of goods, Others
You will be helping with: Youth (19-24 years), Youth (16-18 years), Youth (11-15 years), Children (0-10 years), Persons new to Canada, Women, Men, Visible minorities or racialized persons, Persons with disabilities or medical conditions, LGBTQI2+, Homeless, Disadvantaged, First Nations, Métis, Inuit, Indigenous persons, Seniors

Volunteer Considerations

  • Police record check required
  • Suitable for community service hours
  • Public transportation available
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