Artist (Gardener) - Spiral Garden (ON, Toronto)

Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital; Toronto; On-site; CAD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An inspiring and inclusive organization is seeking a passionate Gardener to lead engaging gardening activities for children and youth with disabilities. This role involves fostering creativity through gardening and cooking, while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. Join a collaborative team dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to families, while contributing to a meaningful program that integrates art and nature. With opportunities for professional development and a focus on quality improvement, this position offers a rewarding experience in a nurturing environment.

Benefits

Competitive Compensation

Professional Development Opportunities

Inclusive Work Environment

Qualifications

• Experience in organic gardening and working with children/youth with disabilities.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally.

Responsibilities

• Lead gardening activities and develop tailored gardening and cooking activities.
• Supervise and train volunteers in gardening tasks.

Skills

Organic Gardening Techniques

Communication Skills

Team Collaboration

Flexibility

Creativity

Education

BFA or College Diploma/Certificate in Horticulture

Experience with Children/Youth with Disabilities

Tools

Gardening Tools (Shovels, Wheelbarrows)

Job description

Join us in building a world of possibility! Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital is Canada’s largest pediatric rehabilitation hospital and a top 40 Canadian research hospital. Serving over 9,000 families annually in both inpatient and outpatient programs, Holland Bloorview is renowned for its expertise in partnering with clients and families to provide exceptional care. It is the only organization to achieve 100% in three successive quality surveys by Accreditation Canada.

Holland Bloorview’s vision is to support the most meaningful and healthy futures for all children, youth, and families. As an academic hospital affiliated with the University of Toronto, all clinical staff are expected to contribute to the academic agenda through supervising students, teaching, academic service, scholarship, and research.

We have received numerous awards including Greater Toronto's Top Employers, Canada's Top Employers for Young People, and Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures. Our work environment is inspiring, inclusive, innovative, and collaborative, offering competitive compensation, benefits, and ongoing professional development opportunities.

Program Summary

The Spiral Garden is an integrated art, garden, and play program for children and youth aged 6-18 with physical disabilities and developmental delays. Led by professional artists and musicians, participants engage in music, visual art, movement, drama, gardening, and other arts activities. CSAs support clients requiring one-to-one facilitation to ensure a safe, successful, and enjoyable experience. Nursing support provides medical care as needed.

Applications for the Gardener position will be reviewed as received. We encourage early applications!

Key Responsibilities

• Lead gardening activities during the Spiral Garden summer program 2025.
• Develop and deliver gardening and cooking activities tailored to diverse participant needs.
• Foster creativity and curiosity among participants.
• Utilize organic gardening techniques and materials.
• Apply knowledge of organic food gardens, native perennials, ornamentals, composting, and soil amendments in planning activities.
• Maintain the garden through watering, pruning, composting, etc.
• Ensure tools and materials are well-maintained.
• Supervise and train volunteers in gardening tasks.
• Participate in planning and staff meetings.
• Support safe participation of children and youth in activities.
• Supervise lunch and break times.
• Collaborate with staff, volunteers, and families.
• Work as part of a team to meet program goals, including participating in group activities.
• Contribute to quality improvement, safety, and a positive work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• BFA or college diploma/certificate in horticulture, gardening, landscaping, arts, or related field.
• Experience with organic gardening techniques and working with children/youth with disabilities is preferred.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs (22.5 kg) occasionally.
• Proven gardening experience, including use of shovels, wheelbarrows, etc.
• Minimum one year of gardening and facilitation experience.
• Food Handler Certificate is an asset.
• Ability to encourage participation and respond to individual needs.
• Flexibility and quick assessment skills.
• Additional skills in art or music are a strong asset.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff, clients, and families.
• Sound judgment and independence.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.