Assistant Playworker Applications

Before submitting an application to be an Assistant Playworker, we ask that you complete the volunteer application and volunteer for a minimum of one popup event. 

Roles and Responsibilities at a Popup

These roles are subject to change.

• Unloading and Playscaping Loose Parts

  Arrive early to a popup event and help unload the loose parts from the trailer and arrange them in an inviting and appealing way.

• Sign-up Table

  Make sure everyone who arrives at the popup gets signed in using the QR code provided.

• Data Collection

  Help collect data from participants for grant compliance.

• Documentation

  Observe participants at the popup and document what the children are saying and doing. This requires you to wear a “cloak of invisibility.” Try to be as unobtrusive as possible. Some children behave differently when they know they are being watched. 

• Small Loose Parts Table

  Monitor the small loose parts table. Watch for safety hazards, particularly choking hazards. 

• Loading and Clean Up

  Collect loose parts at the conclusion of a popup event and help load them onto the trailer.

Code of Conduct

The purpose of the Code of Conduct for Volunteers is to set out standards of behavior expected from volunteers of Rooted in Play. All volunteers should ensure that they have read and comply with this Code of Conduct. 

Volunteers should maintain the highest standards of behavior in the performance of their duties by:

• Fulfilling their role as outlined in their written volunteer role description to a satisfactory standard;
  Performing their volunteer role to the best of their ability in a safe, efficient, and competent way;

• Following the charity’s policies and procedures as well as any instructions or directions were reasonably given to them;
  Acting honestly, responsibly, and with integrity;

• Treating others with fairness, equality, dignity, and respect;

• Raising concerns about possible wrongdoing witnessed by the volunteer in the course of the volunteer’s role with Rooted in Play with Maggie or Ashli;

• Meeting time and task commitments and providing sufficient notice when they will not be available so that alternative arrangements can be made;

• Acting in a way that is in line with the purpose and values of the charity and that enhances the work of the charity;

• Communicating respectfully and honestly at all times;

• Observing safety procedures, including any obligations concerning the safety, health, and welfare of other people in line with the training provided to volunteers;

• Reporting any health and safety concerns;

• Directing any questions regarding Rooted in Play’s policies, procedures, support, or supervision to the volunteer’s supervisor

• Seeking authorization before communicating externally on behalf of Rooted in Play;

• Disclosing the fact that they have been charged with, or convicted of a criminal offense by prosecuting authorities (or given the benefit of the Probation of Offenders Act 1907 as amended) and completing a Level II Background Screening before volunteering for Rooted in Play.

Dress Code

Wear comfortable, breathable clothing that you will not mind getting wet or dirty. For safety reasons, we recommend that volunteers wear closed-toed shoes. Do not forget about climate protection, dependent on weather conditions.  You will be given a volunteer ID badge to wear while volunteering with Rooted in Play.

Work-Related Injury

Notify the Volunteer Coordinator if anyone is injured on site.  A first aid kit will be available.  Volunteers are asked to sign a liability waiver before beginning their volunteer service.

Photos

Photos will be taken throughout the popup for use on Rooted in Play’s social media and marketing material.  Volunteers will sign a photo release form confirming their understanding of photo release policies. Volunteers are not permitted to take any photos of children or families at popup events.

Confidentiality

Respect for the confidentiality of children, families, and staff information is paramount.  Volunteers will sign a confidentiality agreement form confirming their compliance with confidentiality policies.

Speaking on Behalf of Rooted in Play

No volunteer may act as an official spokesperson for Rooted in Play without designation by the Board of Directors or Chief Executive Officer. Volunteers are encouraged to promote Rooted in Play’s work in formal and informal settings which do not include media interviews. If volunteers are asked to speak about their work with Rooted in Play at a formal event, they shall inform a staff member and seek information on current client trends, any upcoming promotional events, or current fund-raising goals.

Termination

You must understand and accept that the relationship between Rooted in Play and its volunteers is an “At Will” arrangement and may be terminated at any time without cause by either the volunteer or Rooted in Play.

Background Screening

A Level II background check is required for all volunteer positions after April 15th 2023. Rooted in Play will cover the cost of this screening.