Farm Support

Program Description

Cedar Glen Farm is a 1.5 acre market garden that produces ecologically-grown vegetables. It offers a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program and has a farm stand on site. In addition to vegetable production, Cedar Glen runs a farm camp for 9-12 year olds as well as manages  laying hens for eggs. We also have a satellite farm location at Downsview Park in Toronto. Farm support volunteers work in partnership with Cedar Glen staff to maintain the farm. 

Major Duties

Major Duties May Include:

• Assisting with daily routines and general upkeep of the farm such as planting, weeding, harvesting, etc.
• Assisting with the preparation and facilitation of farm programming.
• Maintaining a positive and inclusive environment.
• Assisting with farm stand and harvest share preparations.

Time Commitment

• Minimum commitment is four hours a week for four weeks in the spring, summer or fall.

Qualifications

• Minimum age 16 years old or turning 16 in the current calendar year.
• Volunteers age 18 and above will need to provide a Vulnerable Sector Screening from their local police service before their first day of volunteering and every three years on the anniversary of their first day of volunteering.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work with others in a team setting and independently.
• Positive communication skills both verbal and non-verbal.
• Responsible, reliable and committed to the role.

Benefits

• Gain farming experience.
• Learn how to grow and harvest food.
• Work in a natural setting.
• Gain experience in time-management and working in a fast-paced environment.
• Be a part of the YMCA and promote the YMCA Mission, Vision and Values.
• Gain experience in dealing with members of different cultural and racial backgrounds, including visible and non-visible dimensions of diversity.
• Farm fresh produce. 

How to apply

Complete the online volunteer application. You will need to provide the position title and location information of this position during step 3 of the application.

Looking for a Different Role?

Check out the full list of our volunteer opportunities.

Why Volunteer for the Y?

The YMCA of Greater Toronto aspires to be a great place to volunteer that is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, where different backgrounds, experiences, and identities are appreciated and celebrated. Guided by our shared values — kindness, well-being, integrity, inclusiveness, respect, and optimism — the YMCA provides thousands of volunteers with meaningful positions and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities. We recognize the contributions of our staff through innovative practices, great benefits, and growth opportunities.

Our Commitments

The YMCA of Greater Toronto values the diversity of people and communities and is committed to excellence and inclusion in our Association.

We are committed to an environment that is barrier free. If you require accommodation during the interview process, please inform us in advance to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation.

About YMCA of Greater Toronto

The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities. As outlined in our 2020–2025 strategic plan, Ignite the Light, we are focused on boosting well-being and promoting equity across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). In the future we see for our region, everyone will have opportunities to shine their brightest.

Mirroring the diversity we’re privileged to have in the GTA, our YMCA offers a variety of programs responding to the needs of our communities. For 170 years, the YMCA of Greater Toronto has provided opportunities for people to shine through a variety of programs and services including health and fitness, licensed child care, camps, employment and immigrant services, education and training, and services for youth, families, and seniors. When you donate to the YMCA of Greater Toronto, you help ensure more people get access to these vital programs that help them connect, grow, and reach their full potential.