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Join Our Flock. ❤️
Join Our Flock. ❤️
Volunteer with Little Larks™ and help us nurture the next generation of Ottawa's children — from behind the scenes and alongside our licensed providers.
You don't need to be an ECE to make a big difference. We have a spot for you.
Why Volunteer With Little Larks
Why Volunteer With Little Larks
Why flutter our way?
Let's face it — not everyone can run a home daycare. But everyone can help one thrive.
At Little Larks, we believe that a strong community lifts every child. Whether you have two hours a week or a burning passion for organizing, there is a place for you in our flock.
A meaningful role
You are not just "filling time." You are helping licensed providers focus on what they do best — caring for kids.
Flexible hours
Evenings? Weekends? One day a month? We work around your life.
A safe environment
You will never be alone with children (it is the law, and we take it seriously).
Reference letters
Build your resume for social work, education, or non-profit careers.
What Volunteers Actually Do (Roles & Responsibilities)
What Volunteers Actually Do (Roles & Responsibilities)
Not all heroes wear capes. Some sort donations.
Your role will never include unsupervised care of children — that is both our policy and the law under Ontario Regulation 137/15 . Instead, you will be the behind-the-scenes magic that keeps our agency running smoothly.
Social Media Storyteller
Capture the heart of Little Larks. Take photos (with consent) and help us share our mission online.
Event Support
Lend a hand at agency events — provider appreciation nights, family picnics, or training sessions.
Administrative Wingman
Assist with filing, data entry, provider application tracking, and other office tasks.
Provider Support Pal
Run errands, pick up supplies, or help a busy provider with non-childcare tasks.
We are always open to your ideas. If you have a skill we haven't listed, tell us about it.
We are always open to your ideas. If you have a skill we haven't listed, tell us about it.
The Legal Stuff (But Made Friendly)
The Legal Stuff (But Made Friendly)
A few flock rules (important for everyone's safety).
Because we work with children — one of the most vulnerable groups in our community — we follow strict rules set by Ontario's Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA) and the Ottawa Police Service.
Here is what we require from every volunteer:
1. A Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)
This is non-negotiable for anyone volunteering in a position of trust with children. The Ottawa Police Service requires a Level 3: Vulnerable Sector Check for daycare volunteers.
Cost: Free for volunteers (just indicate "volunteer purposes" when applying).
How to apply: We will provide you with a letter authorizing your check. You then apply online through the Ottawa Police Service portal.
Wait time too long? If you have applied but not yet received your VSC, the law allows you to begin volunteering under strict conditions: (a) we have proof you applied, and (b) we put additional safety measures in place to protect children until your check arrives. We will walk you through this.
2. Confidentiality Agreement
You will see family information, provider details, and internal agency matters. You will sign a simple agreement promising to keep this information private.
3. Orientation & Training
Before you begin, you will complete a short orientation covering:
Our policies (including supervision rules — you will never be alone with a child )
Prohibited practices (what is never allowed — like corporal punishment or harsh language)
Emergency procedures
Your specific role and responsibilities
4. Two References
We will ask for two references (professional or personal) who can speak to your reliability and character.
5. Signed Volunteer Agreement
You will sign a formal agreement outlining your role, our expectations, and the terms of your volunteer assignment. This protects both you and the families we serve.
⚠️ Important note for parents: If you are a parent of a child in a Little Larks home, you are welcome to volunteer for agency-level activities. However, parents volunteering in the home where their own child is enrolled must still complete all screening requirements, as you will be interacting with other children as well.
Who We Are Looking For (The Ideal Volunteer)
Who We Are Looking For (The Ideal Volunteer)
You do not need a degree. You just need a good heart.
Our ideal volunteer is someone who:
Cares deeply about children and families
Is reliable and shows up when they say they will
Respects confidentiality and boundaries
Is comfortable following clear policies and procedures
Wants to contribute to their Ottawa community
Particularly encouraged to apply:
Students in ECE, social work, psychology, or education programs (great for building your resume)
Retirees with time and talent to share
Parents whose children have grown (remember how hard those early years were? Pay it forward.)
Anyone looking to transition into the early childhood field
1. Apply
Fill out our simple online volunteer application form (linked below).
2. Chat
A quick 15-20-minute phone or video call to learn more about you.
3. Screening
We send you a letter. You apply for your Vulnerable Sector Check through the Ottawa Police
4. References
We will call your two references.
5. Orientation
You complete our 1-hour orientation and sign your Volunteer Agreement
6. Start
You are matched with a role and begin!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will I be left alone with children?
No. Under Ontario Regulation 137/15, every volunteer must be supervised by an employee or licensed home provider at all times and is not permitted to be alone with any child . This is for your protection and the children's safety.
Q: Do I need to pay for my police check?
No. The Ottawa Police Service provides Vulnerable Sector Checks free of charge for volunteers when you indicate that it is for volunteer purposes only.
Q: I am a student. Can this count toward my volunteer hours?
Yes! We are happy to complete any forms your school requires to document your hours.
Q: I can only volunteer once a month. Is that okay?
Absolutely. Every bit helps. Just let us know your availability when you apply.
Q: I don't live in Ottawa. Can I volunteer remotely?
Some administrative and social media roles may be possible remotely. Contact us to discuss.
Q: How old do I have to be?
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Vulnerable Sector Check
Ready to join the flock?
Ready to join the flock?
We are looking for volunteers across all Ottawa neighbourhoods — Kanata, Barrhaven, Orleans, Nepean, downtown, and everywhere in between.
We are looking for volunteers across all Ottawa neighbourhoods — Kanata, Barrhaven, Orleans, Nepean, downtown, and everywhere in between.
Send your CV to: care@littlelarks.ca
Send your CV to: care@littlelarks.ca
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