Volunteer Communications, Recruitment & Retention Specialist

citykidz Open · verified Sep 10, 2026

Hamilton Full-time Mid-level Communications

Mid-level Communications role at citykidz. Hamilton · full-time.

Role brief

Growth Roles summary, based on the employer's posting.

What you'll do

You'll lead volunteer recruitment campaigns and outreach across community channels
You'll create newsletters, promotional materials, and other volunteer communications
You'll run orientations and training sessions for new and current volunteers
You'll interview, place, onboard, and support volunteers through ongoing engagement
You'll track recruitment and retention results, then improve recognition and engagement efforts

What you bring

You'll bring post-secondary education in a relevant field or an equivalent mix of education and experience
You'll have at least one year of experience in volunteer recruitment, community engagement, communications, marketing, or coordination
You'll create presentations and facilitate groups with diverse participants
You'll communicate clearly and build strong relationships with stakeholders
You'll use Microsoft Office and digital platforms while analyzing data and working independently

Who this fits

This role suits someone who enjoys building relationships, supporting volunteers, and working in a Christian nonprofit. You must be comfortable in a faith-based organization, work flexible hours including Saturdays, and hold a valid G Class driver's license with reliable transportation. The full-time role is based in Hamilton and involves working with staff, volunteers, community partners, and interns.

From the employer

Volunteer Communications, Recruitment & Retention Specialist

CityKidz is looking for an enthusiastic Volunteer Communications, Recruitment & Retention Specialist to join our Volunteer Development team. If you are passionate about community building and have experience in recruitment and volunteer management, this full-time role offers the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and volunteers.

About CityKidz:

In Canada, 1 in 5 children is growing up below the poverty line. For generations, poverty has stolen dreams and destroyed futures. At CityKidz, we think it’s time to change that, and we're looking for committed people who will work with us to help kids dream big dreams and reach their full potential. CityKidz is a non-profit, Christian organization dedicated to increasing resiliency and inspiring big dreams for Canadian children living in low-income communities by providing inspirational experiences and nurturing personal relationships, one child at a time.

Position Overview:

The Volunteer Communications Recruitment & Retention Specialist, plays a crucial role in attracting, training, and supporting our volunteers. This position supports a positive volunteer experience, from recruitment and orientation to scheduling and recognition, making CityKidz a welcoming place for all volunteers.

Reporting to the Coordinator of Volunteer Development, the Volunteer Communications, Recruitment & Retention Specialist is a full-time member of the Programs Department. This role leads volunteer recruitment, communications, engagement, and retention efforts, ensuring volunteers are effectively informed, supported, and connected to the mission of CityKidz. Through targeted outreach, relationship building, volunteer communications, presentations, and engagement initiatives, the Specialist helps build and sustain a committed volunteer community that advances the organization's impact.

Functional Responsibilities: 

Volunteer Recruitment & Outreach (25%)

Develop and implement annual volunteer recruitment strategies and campaigns.
Assess volunteer recruitment needs and recommend outreach and engagement approaches.
Develop communication materials that promote volunteer opportunities through various communication channels.
Build and maintain relationships with churches, schools, businesses, and community organizations to support volunteer recruitment.
Represent CityKidz at community events, volunteer fairs, networking events, and outreach opportunities.
Monitor recruitment and engagement results and recommend improvements to increase volunteer engagement.

Volunteer Communications & Marketing (20%)

Develop communication materials that promote volunteer opportunities and initiatives.
Create and distribute volunteer newsletters and engagement communications.
Coordinate digital platforms, and other communication channels.
Maintain volunteer engagement resources and the Volunteer Centre.
Develop, organize and support promotional campaigns that increase volunteer awareness, participation, and retention.
Track communication effectiveness and provide recommendations for improvement.

Volunteer Training & Orientation (20%)

Design and deliver new volunteer information sessions to ensure volunteers understand CityKidz values, policies, and expectations.
Design and facilitate training sessions for new and existing volunteers.
Prepare presentation materials and facilitate engaging group learning experiences.

Volunteer Onboarding & Engagement (20%)

Welcome and support new volunteers during Saturday programs.
Conduct volunteer interviews and placement conversations.
Match volunteers with appropriate opportunities based on skills and interests.
Pair new volunteers with experienced volunteers during onboarding.
Maintain ongoing communications and relationships with prospective and current volunteers to encourage participation and long-term engagement.
Gather volunteer feedback and identify opportunities to improve the volunteer experience.

Volunteer Recognition & Engagement Initiatives (15%)

Collaborate with the Coordinator of Volunteer Development to implement volunteer recognition initiatives and appreciation events.
Monitor and analyze volunteer recruitment, retention, and engagement data.
Prepare reports and summaries on volunteer participation and recruitment outcomes.
Identify trends and recommend strategies to strengthen volunteer recruitment and retention.
Support internship placements by providing day-to-day leadership and guidance.
Contribute to building a positive and connected volunteer community.

Qualifications and Demonstrated Skills:  

Know the values and working culture of CityKidz. 
Post-secondary education in communications, public relations, marketing, community development, nonprofit management, volunteer management, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
1 year experience in volunteer recruitment, community engagement, communications, marketing, or volunteer coordination.
Experience developing presentations and facilitating groups of diverse participants
Proficient with Microsoft Office programs.
Strong relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to develop communications, promotional materials, and volunteer engagement initiatives.
Strong organizational, project management, and time management skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to gather and interpret recruitment and engagement data.
Ability to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, community partners, and interns.
Ability to work independently with initiative and minimal supervision.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and digital communication platforms.
Ability to learn and use advanced technological applications.
Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Comfortable working within a faith-based organization.
Ability to work flexible hours, including Saturdays.
Valid G Class driver's license and access to reliable transportation.