Two young women smiling and standing together in a gymnasium, wearing aprons and T-shirts with the words 'Cook Smart', with a young girl in the background preparing food on a table.

Grow with COOKSMART Leadership Team

We build not just confidence, but leadership skills too!

We value the opportunity to develop our COOKSMART Family to become their absolute best. This includes:

Campers, leaders-in-training, counsellors, program leaders, superviors and even senior managment leaders.

Join our friendly, hands-on team that teaches real-life cooking, nutrition, and garden skills to kids and teens. Whether you’re a student, or new or retired educator who wants to benefit young people in your community. Your involvement helps create safe, positive food experiences for life!

We’re hiring Spring & Summer Staff now.

Apply for Spring-Summer work
Summer Leaders-in-training
APPLY TO VOLUNTEER

NOTE: Volunteers may be required to complete Leader-in-Training program before volunteering

Graphic with text that says "Certified Instructors" with purple star icon and "Nut-Free" with yellow star icon.
Icon of a person and text "28,000+ kids taught" with a location pin icon and text "Since 2016" on a black background.

Leader-in-Training (LIT) Pathway

Want to level up your impact? The LIT Program gives motivated students ages 13+ structured coaching and real leadership experience! Supporting stations, guiding small groups, and building resume-ready skills.

Explore the LIT Program

Why Volunteer with COOKSMART

Make a Real Impact

  • Help kids and teens build kitchen confidence, nutrition awareness, and life skills.

  • Create positive food environments where every child feels safe to try, learn, and lead.

  • Support community programs.

  • See your effort pay off immediately; students take home skills they’ll use for life.

Perks for You

  • Training provided: food safety, allergy awareness, and class flow.

  • Flexible shifts: weekdays after school, some evenings/weekends, and special events.

  • Verified hours & reference letters (great for students and career builders).

  • Resume-ready experience in education, youth leadership, and community work.

  • Belong to a friendly team that values inclusion, patience, and curiosity.

A woman teaching a group of children how to cook or bake in a kitchen classroom, with bowls and utensils on the table.
Group of six children standing inside, holding handmade posters and papers, some wearing Harry Potter-themed t-shirts, smiling and posing for a photo at a camp or event.

Requirements & How To Apply

  • Who: Responsible, enthusiastic high school students (Grades 9–12) who love working with kids, cooking, and having fun. Leaders-in-Training (LIT) welcome.

  • Dates: June 29 – August 28 with a minimum 3-week commitment

  • Training: Mandatory for Volunteers; LITs learn on the job with on-site coaching

  • Leadership: Excellent opportunities for leadership and skill-building throughout the summer

  • Locations: West Oakville, Mississauga; Clarkson, and Port Credit

  • Contact: Email kathy@cooksmart.ca for details or to get started

APPLY TO VOLUNTEER