People making a difference.

At the YMCA-YWCA people offer their time and skills to Y programs because they understand that…

The Y is so much more than a gym. It’s a community.

The Y stands for better health and development for ALL, turning no one away from a membership or program because of financial hardship.

Because of volunteers, the Y can subsidize memberships and offer health and wellness programs created by the community. Because of volunteers, the Y can grow services to help those that need us tomorrow.

There are a variety of volunteer opportunities in our facilities to suit you and if you can not find a job that is listed below we will help you create a customized roll that feels right.

Steps to becoming a volunteer:

1. Find the right fit for you by reviewing the volunteer positions below.
2. Complete a Volunteer Application Form and drop it off in person at a Y Branch.
3. Come in for an interview with a volunteer coordinator.
4. Complete a current RCMP Records Check.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer Advisory Committee
The Y recognizes that our volunteers represent our community and can share unique ideas, perspectives and input on how to better improve our organization and volunteer program. Currently offered at the Kelowna Family Y.  Learn more…

Member Services & Administration
Gain great customer service experience and meet new people in your community. If you love to smile and go the extra mile, join our team as a membership desk host, a tour guide, or program assistant.

Administration | Member Services | Employment Resource Area Assistant

Fitness – Become certified through our volunteer program
The YMCA-YWCA Fitness Instructor Program will help you achieve your certification. Discover the thrill of leading fitness classes, supporting members using the conditioning equipment and providing everyone with the opportunity to stay healthy and active.

Fitness & Wellness Leader | Wellness Assistant

Aquatics
Work towards becoming a certified lifeguard/instructor and help our members develop a passion for swimming and to feel safe in the water.

Swimming Instructor Assistant | Junior Lifeguard

Child and Family Programs
Run, play, laugh and encourage our youngest YMCA-YWCA members to have fun every visit by volunteering in children’s programs. From volunteering in child minding to mentoring our teens to assisting with family events/programs – you can make a difference.

After School Care Leader | Childminding | Child Program Leader | Junior Leader | Youth Program Leader

Facility Operations & Maintenance
Help us show our best face by helping to keep the facility clean and safe.

Conditioning Room Cleaner | Maintenance Support

Silver Lake Kids Camp
Love the outdoors? Help the Y at Silver Lake Kids Camp give children and youth a great camping experience while instilling strong leadership skills and values.

We also have volunteer opportunities for youth at Silver Lake, with our Leaders In Training program – for more information contact Heather campdirector@ymca-ywca.com

Campaigner
Philanthropy is the glue that keeps the YMCA-YWCA able to build healthy communities. We are looking for volunteers to fund raise with our fund development department, supporting the Strong Kids Campaign and other initiatives. For further information contact Allie at 250 764 9621 ext 306.

Meet a Volunteer

Bernie
Maintenance Volunteer

“I love giving back what I can to a charity that keeps people active while also keeping my mind active in the process.”

Stephanie
Child & Youth Volunteer

“The Y is such a welcoming place and a chance to interact with the community.”

Travis
Member Services Volunteer

“I’m a volunteer at the Kelowna Family YMCA-YWCA two days a week but I would do it every day if I could because I really love it there. I have made a lot of great friends.”

Jill Siebert Award of Excellence

The YMCA-YWCA Okanagan annual award honoring a volunteer going above and beyond for their community through Y programs & services.

Jill’s story

“I watched the pool being built and being a non swimmer and afraid of water, I decided to come and join the Y.  I had two wonderful instructors dog paddle with me across the deep pool, complete with waist life jacket and anklets.  They gave me all the encouragement to be able to be on my own.  Not long after I decided to take the Volunteer Course and was able to help with swim classes.  I got so much satisfaction and loved watching the little faces of the children as they progressed in lessons.  My husband Stan and I have 4 sons, all learned how to swim at the Kelowna Family Y, and now our eighth grandchild is already a floater.  Time has flown for me and events that I’ve helped with bring me so many happy thoughts.  The staff over the years has changed, but I have made so many wonderful friends that make me feel so welcome.  I can’t thank you all enough for all you’ve done for me. Being a volunteer is so rewarding and having done 25 years, I still hope to keep coming to my second home.”

- Jill Siebert, Kelowna Family Y Volunteer since 1982.