Purpose 

The Pokémon Club Volunteer supports AutismBC in creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for connection through a shared love of Pokémon. This volunteer-led role supports the facilitation of a monthly in-person social program for autistic children and teens, where members gather with their parents to take part in an activity, play time, and Pokémon trading card fun. Your role is to help foster a warm, low-pressure environment where participants can engage in ways that feel supported, safe, and authentic. 

Location 

In-person at PAFN Richmond (specific venue details provided upon onboarding) 

Key Responsibilities 

Before the session 

• Setting up tables, chairs, and the Pokémon trading card station 

• Laying out craft or cooking activity materials 

• Preparing food and snacks 

• Setting up the name tag and registration table 

• Receiving a brief debrief from the program coordinator on the day’s activity and how to best support participants 

During the session 

• Helping facilitate the featured activity (craft, cooking, or play, which varies each month) 

• Supporting participants in a warm, inclusive way alongside the program coordinator and parents 

After the session 

• Helping with takedown and pack-up 

Term 

Ongoing, starting September 2026 (11 months of the year). Recurring monthly commitment is ideal, but one-time support is also very welcome. 

Time Commitment 

Sessions run the first Saturday of each month, with a few ways to get involved depending on how much time you have: 

• Anchor Volunteer — 2:00–5:30 PM (3.5 hours): Our go-to person for the day, floating across setup, the program, and takedown as needed. Best suited to someone flexible and comfortable stepping into whatever role is needed. 

• Activity Attendant — 3:00–5:00 PM (2 hours): Present throughout the program, supporting participants at activities and offering a welcoming, engaged presence on the floor. This is the heart of the volunteer experience. 

• Setup — 2:00–3:00 PM (1 hour): Helping get the space ready before participants arrive. A great option if you have an hour to spare but can’t stay for the full session. 

• Takedown — 5:00–5:30 PM (30 minutes): Helping pack up and return the space to its original condition. A small but meaningful commitment. 

We’re ideally looking for 2 to 4 volunteers each month. 

Qualifications 

Core Qualifications 

• Comfort and enthusiasm working with autistic children and teens 

• A friendly, patient, and flexible approach 

• Reliability — when you’re available, we can count on you 

• Willingness to follow the lead of the program facilitator 

Essential Values & Approaches 

• Neuroaffirmative mindset: recognizes autism as a valid and valuable neurotype, not something to be fixed or cured 

• Trauma-informed approach: understands the impact of trauma and prioritizes emotional safety, choice, trust, and empowerment, with a willingness to complete a Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check 

• Willingness to learn and grow: open to feedback and reflection on inclusive practices, accessibility, and community care 

You do not need to be a Pokémon expert — just someone who enjoys being part of a fun, community-focused program. 

Support 

Volunteers receive: 

• A pre-session debrief from the program facilitator ahead of each session 

• Clear guidance on your role and how to support participants 

• Ongoing support from the program facilitator 

• A welcoming community of fellow volunteers, families, and AutismBC staff 

How to Apply 

Interested in joining our volunteer pool? Please contact us at [email protected] subject: Pokémon Club Volunteer to learn more. 

Note: A vulnerable sectors criminal record check is required to volunteer within our programs. 

Have questions about the role? Ask us anytime through Ask AutismBC!