Volunteer Roles

Contribute your time and skills to help keep KW Library of Things running smoothly. Volunteers assist with tasks like tool inspections, organizing the inventory, and helping members. It’s a great way to meet like-minded individuals and make a meaningful impact in the community.

Read the roles below if you are interested in volunteering with KW LOT!

1. Front-Facing Volunteer: Check-in & Check-out Assistant (Commitment: once every 2 weeks minimum)

Role Title: "Member Host"
Description:
As a Member Host, you’ll be the friendly face of KWLOT! We encourage people who have had barriers in the past with volunteering and employment to join us! Your primary role is to assist members, and this MAY include: providing a welcoming environment, answering questions about available tools and equipment, checking items in and out, using our easy-to-navigate computer system and supporting  transactions to run smoothly. Your awesome customer service will help members feel confident in their selections and keep our library running seamlessly.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Greet and assist members during operational hours.

  • Support check-ins and check-outs  Go through items going out with the member to make sure they have what they came for.

  • Working with the staff person, divide up the work needing to be done that shift

  • Look up items for availability on the website 

  • Field questions and answer, if able, or connect member to someone else who can. 

2. Order Builder & Shelving Volunteer (Commitment: once every 2 weeks minimum)

Role Title: "Inventory Ninja"
Description:
As an Inventory Ninja, you’ll work behind the scenes to ensure the library is stocked and organized, so it’s ready for action when the doors open. Before operational hours, you'll prepare orders, gather tools, and make sure everything is in perfect shape for the day. During operational hours, you'll be in charge of shelving returned items, making sure everything is in the right place and ready for the next member to borrow. Expect some heavy lifting, but the satisfaction of a well-organized tool haven is totally worth it!

Key Responsibilities:

  • Build and prepare tool orders before operational hours.

  • Shelve checked-in items and keep inventory organized during operational hours.

  • Ensure that items are in the correct storage locations and ready for lending.

  • Help keep the workspace clean, safe, and organized.

  • Lift and carry heavy tools (up to 50 lbs) as needed.

3. Tool & Equipment Maintenance Volunteer (Commitment: once per month/as needed)

Role Title: "Tool Technician"
Description:
In this role, you’ll be the guardian of the tools! As a Tool Technician, you'll be responsible for keeping our inventory in top shape. This involves cleaning, servicing, and performing minor repairs on the tools and equipment. Whether it's giving a saw a good scrub or fixing a wonky drill, your handiwork will ensure that every item in our library is in excellent working condition and ready to lend. You’ll be part of the team that makes sure our members always have access to high-quality tools that work like a charm.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Clean and service tools and equipment to keep them in working order.

  • Perform minor repairs (e.g., replacing batteries, tightening screws, oiling moving parts).

  • Inspect returned tools for damage and recommend repairs or replacements if needed.

  • Record maintenance and repair work to ensure accurate tracking of tool status - some routine maintenance for certain items, example saw blade replacement, spring maintenance of camping equipment, etc.

  • Ensure all tools are safe for use and ready for lending.

4. Community Catalyst Volunteer (for special events, Commitment: as needed)

Role Title: "Community Catalyst" (for Special Events)
Description: As a Community Catalyst, you'll be the spark that ignites engagement at our special events! You'll play a vital role in creating a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, helping to connect people, and bringing our DIY, sustainability, and community-building values to life. Whether it's guiding attendees through a craft, assisting with event setup, or simply chatting with members and making them feel at home, your energy and hands-on support will ensure our events are memorable and impactful. You'll be at the heart of our community initiatives, making sure everyone feels included and inspired.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Actively engage with event attendees, making them feel welcome and comfortable.

  • Assist with event setup, breakdown, and logistical support as needed.

  • Participate in or facilitate event activities, such as crafts, minor repairs, or demonstrations.

  • Represent the organization positively and enthusiastically to the public.

  • Support the overall flow and success of community events.

If you are interested in volunteering, email us at kwlot@eafwr.on.ca with a little bit about yourself, the role you’re interested in, your availability, and your experiences!