Department of Recreation Studies Recreation Internships

Website: www.southgranvilleseniors.ca 
Address: 1420 W12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V6H 1M8

Main Contact: Trisha Ssebanakitta 
Email: programs [at] southgranvilleseniors.ca (programs[at]southgranvilleseniors[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-732-0812 

Secondary Contact: Karen Pineda 
Email: volunteer [at] southgranvilleseniors.ca (volunteer[at]southgranvilleseniors[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-732-0812 

Agency Description

South Granville Seniors Centre is a non-profit, drop-in community centre that supports the well-being of adults aged 55 and older. Serving more than 450 members and over 2,000 seniors in the community, the Centre provides a safe, welcoming and inclusive space where seniors can connect, remain active and build a sense of belonging. Its member-driven programs address seniors’ social, physical, mental, educational and informational needs through activities such as fitness, arts, health and wellness services, social events, educational workshops, day trips, lunch programs and Spanish-language programming. The Centre promotes friendship, diversity, individual worth and healthy, independent living.

Position Details

The Recreation Studies Intern will support the planning, coordination, and delivery of recreational, social, educational, and wellness programs for older adults at the South Granville Seniors Centre. Responsibilities include assisting with program facilitation, event planning, participant engagement, volunteer support, program promotion, and evaluating participant feedback. The intern will also have opportunities to contribute to inclusive programming, community outreach, and special events while gaining experience working with a diverse population of older adults in a non-profit community setting.

Additional Information

The South Granville Seniors Centre is a welcoming, non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the health, well-being, and social connection of older adults through a wide range of recreational, educational, cultural, and support programs. We are committed to providing a supportive learning environment where interns receive mentorship, meaningful responsibilities, and opportunities to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting.

Our organization has previously partnered with the Department of Recreation Studies at Langara College through the Recreation Internship Program, and we have had very positive experiences hosting students. We value this partnership and look forward to continuing to support the professional development of future recreation practitioners.

Website: www.bcrugby.com 
Address: 2015 Main Street, Vancouver, BC, V5T 0J8 

Main Contact: Noah Pryce-Baff 
Email: npryce-baff [at] bcrugby.com (npryce-baff[at]bcrugby[dot]com) 
Phone: 250-882-3039 

Secondary Contact: John Tait 
Email: jtait [at] bcrugby.com (jtait[at]bcrugby[dot]com) 
Phone: 236-508-2651 

Agency Description

British Columbia Rugby Union, commonly known as BC Rugby, is the recognized governing body for Rugby union in the province of British Columbia. We are a Not-For-Profit organization and one of 60 Provincial Sport Organizations (PSOs) accredited with the Provincial Government. We service over 8,000 individuals to the game and registered 65+ community rugby clubs across British Columbia.

Position Details

BC Rugby is seeking a motivated and detail‑oriented Events Intern to support the planning and delivery of rugby events across the province. In this role, the intern will assist with organizing tournaments, festivals, and community activations by helping manage logistics, coordinating with clubs and volunteers, preparing equipment, and contributing to on‑site event operations. The position also involves supporting registration processes, tracking event data, and contributing to post‑event reporting. The Events Intern will collaborate closely with staff, partners, and vendors to ensure smooth execution while gaining hands‑on experience in sport event management.

Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/fields-and-courts.aspx 
Address: 814 Richards Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 2B5 

Main Contact: Jacklyn Altamura 
Email: jacklyn.altamura [at] vancouver.ca (jacklyn[dot]altamura[at]vancouver[dot]ca) 
Phone: 778-955-0736 

Secondary Contact: Angela Nicholson 
Email: angela.nicholson [at] vancouver.ca (angela[dot]nicholson[at]vancouver[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-257-8493 

Agency Description

Our department oversees the permitting of all outdoor sports facilities in the City. We have recently implemented new Affiliation and Allocation policies which will allow for equitable allocation of facilities.

Position Details

Along with supporting the front-line staff with general permit inquiries, the intern will assist with reviewing new procedures associated with the implementation of the Affiliation and Allocation program. This would include receiving data and feedback from staff and user groups, analyzing the information and producing recommendations based on the information received. The intern will also be working on creating a manual with the new procedures and updated key contact information related to the new Affiliation and Allocation policies.

Additional Information

This position will provide the intern experience in another aspect of Recreation. They will be exposed to policies, procedures and city-wide services. They will gain understanding of how permitting works alongside programmers in community centres as well as the maintenance, special events and operations department.

Website: https://www.cypressmountain.com 
Address: 6000 Cypress Bowl Road, West Vancouver, BC, V7V 3N9 

Main Contact: Jane Coady 
Email: jcoady [at] cypressmountain.com (jcoady[at]cypressmountain[dot]com) 
Phone: 778-378-7553 

Secondary Contact: Jamie Jack 
Email: jjack [at] cypressmountain.com (jjack[at]cypressmountain[dot]com) 

Agency Description

Cypress Bowl Recreations is an outdoor recreation service provider that offers year round alpine activities, events and experiences to the greater Vancouver community. In the spring, fall and summer seasons (May - October) we offer hiking & walking trails, axe throwing, scenic chairlift rides, and mountain coaster experience supported by special events, food and beverage services, and shopping opportunities. In the winter season (December - March), we primarily offer downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, tubing, sledding and snow-shoeing, complemented by cultivated food and beverage experiences, snow-sport lessons, shopping, guided tours and special events. Downhill Snow School school operates primarily in the winter season offering alpine ski and snowboarding Lessons.

Position Details

1. Snow School Administrative Intern (x1 unpaid internship position available) - Support and shadow the Snow School Administrative Manager in oversite of the operational and workforce planning, employee experience and occupational health and safety functions of the snow school department at Cypress Mountain. Core responsibilities may include supporting hiring, onboarding and training; maintaining staff documentation and character profiles; supporting staff scheduling including performing call-ins and call-offs; sending staff communications including answering staff questions, helping team members to access benefits, creating a bi-weekly department newsletter and compiling and sending out meeting minutes from leadership team meetings; Supporting the occupational health and safety program including incident reporting, work place inspections and participating in incident reviews; Supporting employee experience events including monthly staff social events, mountain wide activations and an end of season department celebration; Support base-area operations on busy/peak days including meeting and greeting guests, youth program lunch hour and helping with set up and tear down.
2. Slope Safety/Snow Sport Instructor Internship (paid ski instructor internship positions available) - Strong ski and snowboarding abilities required - paid work opportunities are contingent on successfully completing a snow sport instructor certification (likely scheduled in mid-late December or early January). Deliver Private, single-day group, and multi-day lessons to adults and children. Teach a variety of lesson types and programs while adhering to Cypress Mountain & Boyne Resorts Snow School standards as well as those established by relevant national certifying bodies (or accepted equivalents). Meet and greet guests; determine lesson goals and set achievable objectives. Host and supervise guests as they navigate on- and off-snow amenities, including rentals, guest services, and occasional mealtimes. Supervise youth program participants during lunch periods.
Complete end-of-lesson report cards and transfer-of-care procedures, including sign-out and delivery of lesson summaries to guests and/or parents/guardians as appropriate. Assist with learning area set-up, tear-down, maintenance, and special events as required. Provide additional on-snow support during peak periods to ensure smooth program delivery. Actively uphold Duty of Care, the Alpine Responsibility Code, Emergency Response Procedures and all applicable Safe Work Procedures (SWP’s). Participate in Cypress Mountain’s Occupational Health & Safety Program, including department training, and pre-shift safety meetings. Promptly report hazards, near misses, and injuries.

Additional Information

Availability from Mid December - Mid April as opposed to January - April is preferred due to the seasonal nature of the operations at Cypress Mountain. Internship participants need to be available to attend mountain orientation and training across Saturday & Sunday in Late November or Early December. Team Member benefits include a free Seasons Pass to Cypress Mountain; Sister resort reciprocal program; Free Drop-in Lessons and Snow Sport Instructor Training Program; Food, Rental & Retail Discounts; Free transportation to and from work; Great Pro Deals all season; Best local snow & terrain.

Website: www.prda.ca 
Address: 1088 208 St, Langley, BC, V2Z 1T4 

Main Contact: Margo Klassen 
Email: mklassen [at] prda.ca (mklassen[at]prda[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-530-8717 (ext. 103) 

Secondary Contact: Heather Vilvang 
Email: hvilvang [at] prda.ca (hvilvang[at]prda[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-530-8717 (ext. 102) 

Agency Description

Through equestrian activities and with the involvement of the community, we enhance the quality of life for individuals with a wide range of abilities.
We are an adaptive horse riding program in South Langley. We teach children and adults of all abilities how to ride, and through the motion and companionship of our horses, we are changing lives one hoofbeat at a time.

Position Details

This is an opportunity to work with child and adult participants in a recreational sporting program. Horse experience is not necessary because we will train students through our volunteer training program. We have 130 participants every week with diagnoses ranging from Down's Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy to Autism and Learning Challenges. Up to 80 volunteers to support us and our herd each week as well.
Students will be sidewalking along with participants and horses, leading horses in lessons, grooming and tacking horses for lessons and shadowing instructors to give input into lesson design later in the term. There is also administrative components and the opportunity to design a fundraiser for us, to be completed before the end of term. Much of the work is outdoors or in our barn. We have 17 horses and two office cats. No two days are alike at PRDA. This is a position that teaches adaptability and presence every day!

Additional Information

We are located in south Langley and there is no transit available. Students must dress for the elements and be aware of many allergens. We are flexible with scheduling as we operate Monday to Saturday, 9:00 to 6:00 (most days).

Website: www.burnabynh.ca 
Address: 100-4460 Beresford Street, Burnaby, BC, V5H 0B8 

Main Contact: Sara Shaw
Email: saras [at] burnabynh.ca (saras[at]burnabynh[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-431-0400 

Secondary Contact: Kimberly Barwich 
Email: kimberlyb [at] burnabynh.ca (kimberlyb[at]burnabynh[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-299-5778 

Agency Description

BNH is a charitable non-profit organization. We are a volunteer-driven community funded agency with a unique focus on Neighbours supporting Neighbours. BNH is the umbrella organization for Burnaby Community Services Society, Burnaby Meals on Wheels, and Burnaby Seniors Outreach Society. Together, we created an integrated model where we can share resources, strengthen programs and services to better serve the needs in the growing community.

Position Details

We have programs for all ages and tailor the internship to each students desired learning goals.

Website: https://squashbc.com 
Address: 4867 Ontario Street, Vancouver, BC, V5V 3H4 

Main Contact: Kim Dennis 
Email: executivedirector [at] squashbc.com (executivedirector[at]squashbc[dot]com) 
Phone: 604-737-3084 

Agency Description

Squash BC is the provincial governing body for squash in British Columbia, dedicated to growing, promoting, and supporting the sport across the province. Our vision is that squash is a thriving, accessible, and inclusive sport for all British Columbians.
We lead province‑wide initiatives that grow participation, strengthen competitive pathways, and support facilities, coaches, officials, and volunteers. The organization delivers programs for juniors, adults, women, post‑secondary athletes, and new players—including Squash Starters, Junior Pathway, Women in Squash, Squash in Schools, and community outreach—while overseeing sanctioned tournaments, leagues, rankings, and Provincial Championships. Through technical and Safe Sport support, event administration, advocacy, partnerships, and strategic investment in infrastructure, Squash BC works to protect and expand court access across the province.

Position Details

Position Details — Sport Operations Intern
The Sport Operations Intern supports Squash BC’s seasonal delivery of programs and events, working closely with the Executive Director and Sport Operations Coordinator to ensure smooth, consistent execution across key operational areas. The role assists with championship event coordination, participation‑focused community events, data and systems management, and annual report preparation. Responsibilities include helping organize event logistics, supporting communication with clubs and partners, maintaining accurate competition and participation data, and contributing to the development of Squash BC’s annual operational reporting. This position provides hands‑on experience in sport administration, event delivery, and provincial sport system operations.

Additional Information

This internship provides meaningful hands‑on experience within a provincial sport organization, offering students exposure to event delivery, sport administration, and community engagement. The intern will receive structured guidance, mentorship, and opportunities to apply classroom learning in real operational contexts. The role supports both championship‑level events and grassroots participation initiatives, giving students insight into the full sport development pathway. Interns will also gain experience with data systems, reporting processes, and cross‑department collaboration, contributing to Squash BC’s seasonal operations and annual planning cycle. This position is well‑suited for students interested in sport management, recreation programming, event coordination, or non‑profit operations.

Website: www.bcrpa.bc.ca 
Address: 409 Granville Street, Suite 1351, Vancouver, BC, V6C 1T2 

Main Contact: Noelle Virtue 
Email: nvirtue [at] bcrpa.bc.ca (nvirtue[at]bcrpa[dot]bc[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-260-3161 

Secondary Contact: Kirkland Halliday 
Email: khalliday [at] bcrpa.bc.ca (khalliday[at]bcrpa[dot]bc[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-337-4947 

Agency Description

BC Recreation & Parks Association (BCRPA) convenes, educates, and empowers professionals who transform lives. Our 5,700 recreation and parks members and 2,800 registered fitness professionals support more than 95% of BC’s population. Through their essential work, communities across the province grow stronger, healthier, and more connected.
Our work is in the solution space. We bring people, knowledge, and resources together. We champion policy, empower and educate leaders, train fitness professionals, and deliver programs that create safe, active, and inclusive communities where everyone belongs.
Vision:
We empower recreation and parks professionals to cultivate vibrant, active, and inclusive communities where everyone thrives.
Purpose:
To connect and inspire professionals to build healthy and resilient communities through the power of recreation and parks.

Position Details

The intern would be responsible for supporting BCRPA programs and events.

Choose to Move and ActivAge programs. Two free programs run over a 3-month period that empower older adults across BC to become more active, socially connected, and confident in their health. This would entail administrative support for the programs under the supervision of the Senior Program Manager. Connecting with Recreation Coordinators across the program to secure program dates and registration numbers, liaising with Activity Coaches and Fitness Leaders, etc.

Pathways to Belonging is a training program designed for professionals at all stages of their IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility) journey. It includes a six-module, self-paced program paired with facilitated practical sessions. This certification program deepens reflection, builds confidence, and reinforces IDEA-aligned practices across the recreation, parks and physical activity sector. The intern would support facilitator coordination for in-person and online training opportunities as well as potentially a Trainer-the-Trainer event for new facilitators.

Parks Professional Pathways is BCRPA’s annual conference designed for parks professionals. This event is for everyone who designs, plans, manages and cares for our park spaces to explore the latest in wise practices, technology, and trends. The intern would support with administrative duties related to the two-day conference including: engagement with speakers, registration and catering support, and event support at the event in Langley.

BCRPA's Symposium is BCRPA’s flagship conference unites recreation and parks professionals from all corners of the province. Together we tackle key sector issues, explore innovations and build connections that shape healthier communities across BC. The intern would support with administrative duties related to the 3-day conference taking place in Penticton in May 2027. Duties would include contract support, learning about the registration system Pheedloop, social event research and support, etc.

Additional Information

BCRPA is the provincial membership body for local government recreation and parks professionals and provides a great overview of provincial initiatives, programs and events. It provides interns with the opportunity to connect and engage with many leaders in the field for future career prospects. Several of our interns over the years have also received extended work opportunities with BCRPA after the internship.

Website: www.jccgv.bc.ca 
Address: 950 West 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 2N7 

Main Contact: Kyle Berger 
Email: kyle [at] jccgv.bc.ca (kyle[at]jccgv[dot]bc[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-638-7286 

Secondary Contact: Ben Horev 
Email: ben [at] jccgv.bc.ca (ben[at]jccgv[dot]bc[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-638-7282 

Agency Description

The Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver is a member-based, though open to the public, full-service community centre. Featuring a full rec centre, including a pool, fitness facility, gymnasium, etc. The JCC is a hub of community programming that is open and inclusive to all. It is a cultural (but not religious) facility that strives to uniquely build community in everything we do, including large-scale fundraising events, sports leagues, a day camp, after-school programming, inclusion services, adult programming, and more.

Position Details

Our interns have the opportunities to engage in a wide-range of programming and events, depending on their interests. Our focal point for the internship this year would be our camp program, which runs sessions throughout the year, including pro-d day camps, spring break camp, and more. However, we also have opportunities to engage in fundraising events, seniors programs, children's programming, and more.

Additional Information

We love what we do here and would love an intern to bring that same energy and enthusiasm.

Website: https://recreation.ubc.ca/aquatics 
Address: 6080 Student Union Blvd, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z1 

Main Contact: Adrian Greszata 
Email: adrian.greszata [at] ubc.ca (adrian[dot]greszata[at]ubc[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-822-2033 

Secondary Contact: Adam Peterson 
Email: adam.peterson [at] ubc.ca (adam[dot]peterson[at]ubc[dot]ca) 

Agency Description

The UBC Aquatic Centre is a state-of-the-art facility that serves athletic training, competition, and neighbourhood leisure needs. The facility services campus, community, and competition. The UBC Aquatic Centre is home to the UBC Thunderbirds and High Performance Centre of Vancouver. It services community needs through swim lessons for children to adults, daycamps, aquafitness, certification courses, community and recreational swims.

Position Details

• Support the Senior Manager, Program Manager and Operations Coordinator in designing, implementing and marketing swim lessons, aquafitness and certification courses
• Develop customer service and public relations skills including front desk operations
• Learn about facility programming/scheduling, staff scheduling, and facility maintenance
• Develop event management skills through assisting in community events, promotions, time trials and larger swim competitions
• Provide support to the administrative team including: Responding to email inquiries, providing registration support, checking in guests for programs and utilizing a new registration software
• Liasing with other departmental colleagues, and learning to network through UBC Recreation
• Develop budgeting, forecasting and planning skills.
• Other duties as assigned

Website: https://www.surrey.ca/parks-recreation 
Address: #100 – 16555 Fraser Highway, Surrey, BC, V4N 0E9 

Main Contact: Jennifer Farrell 
Email: jafarrell [at] surrey.ca (jafarrell[at]surrey[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-502-6229 

Secondary Contact: Sheri Masaro 
Email: SLMasaro [at] surrey.ca (SLMasaro[at]surrey[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-598-5889 

Agency Description

The Recreation Services (RS) Division is responsible for the operation of a variety of community and recreation facilities, as well as the delivery of programs and services to support lifelong health, well-being and engagement. Through recreation centres, pools, arenas, childcare services, and community-based programs, the division promotes active living, social connection, and healthy communities by providing recreation opportunities for residents of all ages.

Position Details

Surrey Sport and Leisure Complex – Children, Youth & Events

Position Summary
The Recreation Intern will support the delivery of recreation programs and community events for children, youth, and families in the Fleetwood Town Centre. The position provides hands-on experience in program delivery, event coordination, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities
Assist with recreation programs and activities.
Support the planning and delivery of community events, including Family Day and Family Easter celebrations.
Assist with event setup, logistics, and participant support.
Provide support for aquatic programs, including lesson assistance, equipment setup, and administrative tasks.
Promote positive participant experiences and community involvement. (Aquatics experience is welcome but not required)

Additional Information

This placement provides hands-on experience in municipal recreation, including program delivery, event coordination, community engagement, and facility operations. The intern will work alongside experienced staff and gain exposure to a variety of recreation services and program areas.

Website: www.burnaby.ca 
Address: (various facilities) 

Main Contact: Teri Keller 
Email: teri.keller [at] burnaby.ca (teri[dot]keller[at]burnaby[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-294-7044 

Agency Description

The City of Burnaby Recreation Division's vision is "Making Life Better" We strive to enhance the quality of life for everyone in Burnaby by balancing the levels of service many residents enjoy today with the long-term viability of infrastructure and programs. We currently have 9 recreation facilities (2 with arenas, 3 with pools), 4 seniors centres and 4 youth centres. Some unique features in our facilities include : state of the art music studios, yoga studio, cycle/fitness circuit studios, youth and senior dedicated spaces, an outdoor pool that runs all year long. We are growing quickly with 3 large facilities under construction. Our community services team partners with the local schools to offer programs and events. Our access services area is growing to meet the needs of the community.

Position Details

We have the ability to place students in the facility or service area (youth, seniors, children/preschool, community, access, arts, aquatics, fitness and arenas) that best meets their interests. We can provide opportunities to experience multiple service areas in one large facility. There is also the opportunity to go to more than one facility to complete module work. Students will also connect with various City Departments (People & Culture, Communications, Printshop, Facility Maintenance, Management, etc). You will get the full experience of the "days in the life" of a recreation professional. Interact with patrons, staff and volunteers. We have had many placements over the years and our supervisors are experienced with offering meaningful internships. We are able to provide up to 3 placements within our organization in 2027. Many of the students in Burnaby have gained employment in the City after the completion of their internship.

Website: https://ymcabc.ca 
Address: 282 W 49th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5X 4M4 

Main Contact: Diego Corrales 
Email: diego.corrales [at] ymcabc.ca (diego[dot]corrales[at]ymcabc[dot]ca) 
Phone: 778-814-8330 / 604-324-9622 

Secondary Contact: Giovanni Lam 
Email: giovanni.lam [at] ymcabc.ca (giovanni[dot]lam[at]ymcabc[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-631-5511 

Agency Description

By igniting belonging and championing health equity, YMCA BC strengthens the foundations of community. With over 3,000 employees and volunteers, YMCA BC serves 150,000 individuals of all ages, backgrounds and abilities across hundreds of service locations, from the Sunshine Coast to Fort St. John.

As a charity, YMCA BC promotes equitable access to healthier outcomes by providing vital programs and services to help address many of our communities' most pressing social issues, including health and wellness, affordable child care and camps, mental health, employment services and community health.

We believe there is potential inside all of us and envision vibrant, healthy and inclusive communities for all.

YMCA BC is firmly committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDIB). By taking an intersectional approach to our programs and services, the YMCA is committed to creating spaces and experiences where everyone feels safe, welcome, and like they belong. Learn more at ymcabc.ca.

Position Details

YMCA Langara Program & Member Experience Intern
Program Support Staff: Working with our Children, Youth, and Family programs to support the set-up/take-down of equipment, safety and supervision of children and youth in program spaces, planning and programming children's activities, facilitating activities for children and youth

Fitness Floor Attendant: Oversee the daily operations on the fitness floor, support the check in process for group fitness classes, maintaining a neat and organized fitness floor, provide excellent customer service to all current and prospective members, providing member orientation to the fitness floor and equipment

Membership Experience Support: Promoting YMCA memberships and programs while providing customer service, conducting facility tours and member orientations, engaging with members to support retention, and responding to member questions and concerns in accordance with YMCA BC standards.

Additional Information

Qualifications - you bring:
Current Standard First Aid and CPR-C & AED certificate
Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and CRM systems experience
Access to reliable transit or a vehicle
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with customer service orientation
Successful candidates will be required to provide a current and satisfactory Criminal Reference Check/Vulnerable Sector Search issued no later than six (6) months preceding your start date.
Successful candidates will be required to provide 3 satisfactory references.

Website: https://www.sd35.bc.ca 
Address: 26850 29th Ave, Aldergrove, BC, V4W 3C1 

Main Contact: Stephanie Eby 
Email: seby [at] sd35.bc.ca (seby[at]sd35[dot]bc[dot]ca) 
Phone: 604-349-0068 

Agency Description

Community Schools focus on out of school programs, family resources, and community support.

Position Details

Assisting with planning and facilitating programs. This position would assist the Community School Coordinator in Aldergrove where we support a family of schools (2 elementary, 1 middle, and 1 high school). There are programs at all four schools. Planning for spring break would be involved in this role. Depending on intern's interest responsibilities could include designing newsletters and parent communication, fundraising events, facilitating programs, system optimization, program feedback collection, and more.