Volunteer

Interested in Volunteering at the market?

We are always looking for friendly and enthusiastic individuals (aged 16+) to help with a variety of tasks at the market. Volunteer efforts are recognized with fresh produce donations from vendors, collected at the end of each market and shared between volunteers.

Available volunteer opportunities:

1. Market Info Booth Volunteers:

Approximate weekly time commitment:
Saturday Market Volunteers: 4-5 hours, early morning start (at least 1/2 hour before market opens)
Wednesday Market Volunteers: 3-4 hours, optional early morning or late morning start

Example Tasks:

– Help set up and take down the info booth
– Provide information and hand out brochures on the market and other local attractions
– Sell tote bags and other items
– Promote upcoming special events
– Direct complaints or queries about the market through the appropriate channels
– Learn about the BCAFM Nutrition Coupon program and assist program participants or answer questions about the program
– Help the managers with miscellaneous tasks, including (but not limited to): customer counts, surveys, sign-making, collecting coupons or sales data from vendors

2. Special Events Volunteers

Approximate time commitment:
As needed. Depends on the event timing and location; up to one market per month and up to 8 hours/market.

Example Tasks:

– Set up and take down events area and tents
– Lift, carry or use the dolly to move tents, tables, chairs and supplies
– Make signage and/or place signage throughout the market
– Provide information on the event to customers; answer questions
– Sell tickets or food
– Wash dishes, wipe down tables; follow health and safety procedures including safe food-handling
– Work with kids to complete hands-on, fun tasks!
– Occasionally approach customers with information to promote the event

Some qualifications/skills of successful market volunteers:

1. Friendly, patient and personable
2. Knowledgeable about Kamloops events and attractions or willing to learn (newcomers to Kamloops are welcome to volunteer too – it’s a great place to meet people and learn more about your community!)
3. Experienced with basic cash-handling and cash-counting
4. Good with all ages, including children and seniors
5. An interest in local food and food production, organic food, agriculture, gardening, or cooking
6. Relatively physically fit – Example: able to stand for 10-15 minutes at a time, walk up and down the market several times, lift tables/chairs/boxes of brochures, push a heavy dolly, put up and take down tents. Note, however: Accommodations will happily be made for people with limitations in any of these areas. Please let the managers know when you fill out your application.