School Event Coordinator

"Canada’s National School Food Program is just getting started. Help make plant-based the default."

Jason Fonger Education Services

Volunteer Opportunity: School Event Coordinator

Jason Fonger Education Services is developing a new plant-forward school food program: connecting engaging food literacy education and student taste tests with practical efforts to make plant-based protein foods more accessible in schools. The goal is to use staff engagement, student assemblies and taste testing, procurement support, and follow-up to help schools make plant-based protein foods part of their ongoing food offerings.

The aim is to build a repeatable model, starting strategically across Ontario regions and eventually reaching schools elsewhere in Canada. Jason has already succeeded in offering half-day certification workshops for Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) students and full-day, hands-on food experiences across more than 20 school boards.

Canada’s National School Food Program is just getting started, and the menus, habits, and procurement norms set now will last. Join as a volunteer to help make plant-based foods a core part of the program from the beginning.

We’re seeking an organized, dependable person to help coordinate school events that introduce students and educators to appealing plant-based foods. This role could suit an emerging event professional, a college or university student, or a motivated Grade 11 or 12 student. Responsibilities will be matched to your experience, availability, and learning goals, with guidance from program founder Jason Fonger.

What you’ll do

• Help coordinate dates, schedules, and event details with participating schools.
• Prepare event checklists, timelines, supply lists, and volunteer assignments.
• Coordinate sample deliveries and setup needs with our procurement and industry partnerships volunteer.
• Help organize materials for student taste tests and teacher sessions.
• Support event setup, volunteer briefings, and on-the-day coordination.
• Organize student feedback and complete practical follow-up tasks after events.

You’ll receive guidance on school procedures, food handling arrangements, and student privacy. Student volunteers will work under adult supervision, with the scope adjusted appropriately.

Who would thrive in this role

• You are organized, responsive, comfortable asking questions, and willing to follow through on details. You enjoy working with people and care about food, education, health, or sustainability.
• Previous event experience is helpful but not required. Experience organizing school activities, clubs, community events, or team projects is also valuable.

We have a strong preference for Canadians or individuals familiar with the Canadian school food landscape.

Time and location

Approximately 4–8 hours per week during active planning periods, with additional availability on agreed event days. Hours will vary with the event schedule. Ideally, you can commit for a period of at least three months.

Planning can largely happen remotely. In-person participation at Ontario school events is valuable, and weekday availability is especially helpful. Event commitments will be agreed in advance.

What you’ll gain

• Hands-on experience in event planning, school communications, partner coordination, and project delivery, with mentorship and opportunities to build a portfolio of completed work.
• The opportunity to shape what Canadian kids eat for decades to come, and bring more plant-based options into school meals from day one.

Volunteer status and future opportunities

This is initially an unpaid volunteer role. Paid contract work may become available as funding and program needs develop, but is not guaranteed.

Interested?

Complete this Google Form by Sunday, October 25, 11:59 PM ET.

Job details