Becoming a Volunteer
Please click HERE to join the VLA now!
The Vancouver Lifeguard Association will be organizing the water safety of events and races in 2023. Volunteers are at the core building the VLA to serve our community and allow on-water events to happen in a safe environment for all participants.
Volunteer Positions and Requirements
Lifeguard
VLA Lifeguards provide safety and supervision both on and off the water during events. Whether you like being on a paddleboard, onshore or in the rescue boat, you can put your skills and knowledge to work! ALL lifeguards must be 16 years of age, hold a current National Lifeguard Waterfront or Pool Option and Standard First Aid with CPR/AED.
First Aid Attendant
Not a lifeguard? That’s OK!
First Aid Volunteers provides onshore event safety, medical and first aid coverage. All First Aid Attendants must be 16 years of age and hold a current Standard First Aid CPR/AED certificate.
Event Leader
Looking for more leadership experience? This volunteer position is perfect for you! VLA Event Leaders are responsible for the safety, organization, and supervision of volunteers at our events. If you are interested in this role please note it on your volunteer information form and or email volunteers@vancouverlifeguards.com.
Junior Program Leader
VLA runs Junior Lifeguard Clubs at Vancouver pools year-round and summer camps at Kitsilano Beach. Junior Leaders provide assistance to VLA Coaches. This volunteer position is a fun and exciting opportunity and gateway to gaining work experience in aquatics!
Want to do something else?
Want to volunteer to do something other than lifeguarding or first aid such as marketing, blogging or writing newsletters. Let us know! We welcome all ideas and support! Email at info@vancouverlifeguards.com.
The Vancouver Lifeguard Association (VLA) is a non-profit organization of volunteers who bring Lifeguards together to work and play. Join our team of more than 150 volunteers today, and improve your skills, while having fun participating in your community.
When YOU become a MEMBER of the VLA you will have the opportunity to volunteer at our different events throughout the year. Some of our volunteer events have included the Vancouver Open Water Swim Association Swim Races, Celebration of Light Fireworks, Vancouver Triathlons, Masters Swims, public school outreach and more! We volunteer with people from many different backgrounds to network and learn new skills, from paramedics, first aid instructors, national lifeguard instructors, nurses and lifeguard supervisors!
At any VLA volunteer event, you can expect good quality, industry-leading equipment, comfortable uniforms and an experience to remember.
Volunteer Perks
Volunteers who come out to multiple events are thanked with honorariums and VLA merchandise. You can build your resume by having volunteer experience and having committed and being part of an association. We offer verbal and letter references for things like future jobs, school applications and volunteering opportunities. All volunteers who attended at least one event are invited to the end of the year volunteer thank-you party in August.
Event Sign up
If you are already a VLA member and want to participate in events please click on the link below.
Want to become a VLA Members!
Anyone who wants to volunteer with the Vancouver Lifeguard Association must be a VLA member and have paid their membership dues. Not a member yet? Sign up HERE
Volunteer Information Form HERE
Submit forms to volunteers@vancouverlifeguards.com or
Hillcrest Aquatic Centre #10 – 4575 Clancy Loranger Way, Vancouver BC V5Y 2M4.