VOLUNTEER POSITIONS

Position: Gardener Volunteer
Organization: Wildlife Rescue Association of BC
Location: Burnaby, Metro Vancouver BC

Purpose of Position

The vision of Wildlife Rescue Association of British Columbia is to continually improve the welfare of urban wildlife. Our mission is to provide leadership in rehabilitating wildlife and in promoting the welfare of wild animals in the urban environment.

We run a wildlife hospital located on a single site at the edge of Burnaby Lake. We treat over 6,000 wild birds and bats each year and provide public education through 30,000 calls to our Wildlife Helpline. Our Business Operations department plans, coordinates and oversees all our programs including development, communications, resources and volunteering.

Each year, 300 volunteers participate in a range of positions both on and off site. We are currently seeking volunteers to install and maintain the garden and landscape on the property of the Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C.

All volunteers must be 16 years or older and provide a Criminal Record Check, proof of up-to-date tetanus vaccination and full Covid-19 vaccination.

Qualifications

We are looking for:

• Experience and knowledge in landscaping, gardening, horticulture, or a related field - knowledge of native plants in B.C an asset
• Good communication skills
• The ability to complete tasks independently with little supervision
• Demonstrated reliability
• Someone who enjoys routine maintenance tasks
• Prepared to work outdoors
• Physically fit
• Organized
• At least 18 years of age

Deliverables

The landscape gardener is expected to ensure the highest standards of practice are achieved and maintained in accordance with the mission, vision and values of WRA, and to ensure adherence to all policies and legal requirements especially Health & Safety procedures.

• Complete maintenance of the landscape and garden within your skillset as necessary
• Assist in installing the new wildlife landscape plan, including hardscape and planting
• Practice natural pest control methods
• Remove/control invasive species
• Assist with keeping track of, and maintaining garden equipment and supplies
• Work with volunteer work parties as needed
• Recording and logging all hours on MyImpactPage

Time Commitment

All Wildlife Rescue volunteers start with a minimum commitment of 100 hours. Approximately 4-8 hours a week on a consistent weekly basis, with a minimum commitment of 6 months. Hours may vary per week depending on the season. The shifts will take place at Wildlife Rescue during operational hours, with flexibility as to the day.

Recognition & Benefits

We will discuss your specific motivations and learning objectives, and keep those in mind throughout your engagement. You will have the opportunity to:

• Make a difference for wildlife
• Learn a lot about local wildlife and the impact we humans have on local species
• Contribute to the development and efficient running of our organization and its volunteers
• Learn about the non-profit sector and the enormous value of volunteerism
• Give back to your community
• Gain experience in gardening, landscape, wildlife garden design
• Meet and work with new people
• Learn about the daily operations in a wildlife rehabilitation facility

Upon successful completion of the minimum commitment and at the volunteer’s request, the Volunteer Coordinator will provide references.

How to Apply

Please fill out an application form online and our Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch. More information can be found on our website at Wildlife Rescue Association of BC | Volunteering

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