Bartram’s Garden Community Boathouse Volunteer Application

Physical Requirements

• A degree of physical fitness is important: Volunteers work outside in the heat and move around a lot. There is moderate to heavy lifting. Volunteers are responsible for setting up and breaking down and that usually means carrying kayaks and equipment. However, if you are unable to do heavy lifting due to injury or mobility issues, we will do our best to accommodate your ability needs. There are numerous roles that do not require heavy lifting.

• Prior kayaking or rowing experience is helpful but not required. We will teach you! Many Volunteers started out with little to no boating experience.

• Knowing how to swim is not required. We encourage Volunteers who do not know how to swim to take swimming lessons. We have funds available to get you started with adult swimming lessons!

Communication & Inclusivity Requirements

• All Volunteers need access to a computer and/or smart phone and an email address to sign up for shifts. All our shift scheduling is done online.

• Good communication skills, including an interest in working with a diverse group of people.

• A commitment to our goal: to create a welcoming, accessible, affirming, fun and safe experience for guests of all abilities and from all backgrounds. We value a culture of respect, honesty and cooperation. We place a particular focus on improving access for Philadelphians in the Southwest neighborhood, which is where the Boathouse is located.

Racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, fatphobia, and xenophobia are not welcome at the Boathouse and will not be tolerated.

• A sense of humor, flexibility and an interest in the Tidal Schuylkill River. Volunteers are encouraged to give feedback to staff at any time.