2024 BRIDGES Summer Outdoor Activity Aid

Mission Statement: We support refugees in their journey to become fully participating members of the West Michigan community. We envision a thriving, multicultural West Michigan community where all have an opportunity to pursue a better future!

BRIDGES Summer Outdoor Activity Aid volunteers work closely with the K-12 Program Coordinator and other BRIDGES volunteers to support fun and engaging activities for students. Outdoor Activity Aid volunteers are responsible for welcoming students in the mornings, being involved with recess activities, games, snack and lunch times, and supporting any needs that arise for program efficiency. Field trips will occur on some but not all Thursdays, so if you choose to volunteer on Thursdays, volunteers are welcome to support with student supervision on field trips.

Training and Evaluation Meetings are required aspects of being an Outdoor Activity Aid volunteer. Training for Cohort 1 will take place on Monday, June 10th and Tuesday, June 11thfrom 9:00am-1:00pm. Training for Cohort 2 will take place on Monday, July 15th and Tuesday, July 16th from 9:00am-1:00pm. The BRIDGES Summer Program runs from Monday to Thursday, 9:00am-1:00pm. Outdoor Activity Aid volunteers must commit to at least two days a week for at least one of the four-week programs.

Requirements:

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Must be a Michigan resident or have temporary residency in Michigan

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High School or equivalent degree (or working towards)

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Enjoy being outside and playing games

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Ability to work with diverse populations

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Ability to work with children of all ages (K-12)

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Self-motivation to support students in teamwork

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Ability to work as part of a team

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Commit to volunteering on a weekly basis

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Attend required training in person

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

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Assist with small and large groups

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Providing some speaking direction to students

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Engaging students in outdoor play and any other appropriate activities

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Work with staff to identify, advocate for, and work on student’s socio-emotional needs

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Report progress and/or issues of concern to the K-12 Program Coordinator

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Demonstrate teamwork and integrity with staff, fellow volunteers, and students

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Build relationships with students on a weekly basis

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Ensure a safe and clean learning environment through assisting with after-program clean up

If interested, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Anna Bundy at: anna@refugeeeducationcenter.org

Or go to our website (refugeeeducationcenter.org) and fill out the volunteer form online.