Bus Driver Volunteers

Description:

City Kids, a dynamic faith-based nonprofit organization, is seeking dedicated Bus Driver Volunteers to help bring hope, inspiration, and life-changing opportunities to children in low-income communities across Hamilton. Bus Drivers play a vital role as the main point of navigation, transporting children, youth, and volunteers to and from the CityKidz program center, ensuring they enjoy a safe, secure, and comfortable journey to participate in inspiring, magical experiences.

CityKidz is built on values of Faith, Hope, and Love, serving more than 800 children and youth with the support of over 250 volunteers. By eliminating transportation barriers, Bus Driver Volunteers directly contribute to creating unforgettable experiences that foster resiliency, inspire dreams, and help children build brighter futures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Safely operate a CityKidz bus, ensuring compliance with all traffic laws and organizational requirements.

• Transport children, youth, and volunteers to and from their homes and the CityKidz program center.

• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure the bus is safe and roadworthy.

• Maintain passenger safety and security during trips.

• Follow designated routes and schedules consistently.

• Report any incidents, accidents, or mechanical issues promptly to staff.

• Work collaboratively with a Bus Team crew of 4–6 volunteers, who engage with children onboard and assist with logistics during pickups and drop-offs.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Minimum age 25+ (required).

• Valid Ontario Class C or B driver’s license (required).

• Clean driving record (driver’s abstract will be run by CityKidz).

• Experience driving buses or large vehicles in Hamilton or nearby areas (preferred).

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to stay calm, focused, and professional in high-energy environments.

Competencies & Attributes:

• Commitment to supporting children and youth from underserved communities.

• Dependability, patience, and compassion.

• Ability to foster a positive and joyful atmosphere during trips.

Training Provided:

• Shadowing an experienced CityKidz driver.

• Supervised test drives in safe, controlled environments.

• Ongoing volunteer training, including Child Abuse Awareness and Protection workshops.

Volunteer Benefits:

• Opportunity to directly change lives and make inspirational experiences possible for children.

• CityKidz volunteer apparel.

• Meals and snacks provided during Saturday programs.

• Participation in an Annual Volunteer Appreciation Event and Volunteer Pancake Breakfasts.

• Recognition for years of service and volunteer hours (with verification and references available).

• Advancement opportunities into senior volunteer and leadership roles.

Time Commitment:

• Minimum six-month commitment required.

• Volunteering at least once a month (biweekly preferred).

• Program sessions:

  • Seasonal: March–June, September–December (Wednesdays evenings & Saturdays).

  • Summer Camps: July–August (weekday availability).

• Example shifts:

  • Saturdays: 7:30am–11:45am or 11:00am–3:15pm.

  • Wednesdays: 5:30–7:00pm or 8:00–9:30pm.

Work Environment:

• Average route includes 25–30 household pickups with 20–40 children onboard.

• Bus Team volunteers accompany the driver to ensure smooth onboarding/offboarding and maintain a safe, fun, and engaging environment for all.

• Drivers operate CityKidz-provided buses, supported by logistics volunteers.