Profile information
Host rating
80 %
Last replied
23 Mar 2024
Feedback
15
Email verified
Badges (2)
Details
Description
We are a small, nature-loving family living by the ocean in Haida Gwaii looking childcare (one 7-year old girl) and occasional gardening help. Haida Gwaii is a remote and beautiful island off the coast of northern British Columbia known for its magical forests, wildlife, and coastline. Our home is steps from the beach or (in the other direction) trails through spruce and cedar forests. Haida Gwaii is an abundant place and we enjoy gathering wild foods, getting out onto the ocean and into the forests, and meeting travelers who come here each summer. We really enjoy eating from our garden, tending a small herd of milking goats, and hunting and fishing in our local area.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
Farmstay help
Babysitting and creative play
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Haida Gwaii is an incredible destination for anyone who enjoys nature, wildlife and the sea. It's an ideal place for hiking, kayaking, fishing, foraging, and outdoor exploration. Because our island is remote, commercial amenities are limited--we have few places to shop, dine out, etc.--but, our islands are rich with wildlife and natural beauty. Eagles nest on the trees, whales can be seen from our town on their annual migration, and it's not uncommon for summer visitors to spot black bears nearby. Locals enjoy making fires on the beach, going out for a paddle in the bay, hunting and fishing, and cooking outdoors. Our town has about 300 full time residents. You won't find bars, cafes, or movie theaters, but the beaches are long (and often empty) and the nights are filled with quiet and stars.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
We are looking for a single volunteer or couple for childcare help and occasional support with our garden and livestock chores. We will need babysitting a few hours a day, with week-to-week flexibility that would allow the volunteer to explore Haida Gwaii. Our daughter enjoys sports, arts/crafts, and exploring in nature. In the summer months we spend a lot of time growing and gathering food and welcome you to join us for fishing and foraging adventures. We also like to hike, paddle, and camp.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: Intermediate
Accommodation
The volunteer would enjoy a private bedroom (with a desk and television) and dedicated bathroom in our home. Wifi and laundry are available. We have an indoor cat. Meals would be shared. We eat as locally as possible with attention to sustainability in our food choices. Meals include as much of our own homegrown produce as possible, homebaked sourdough bread, dairy from our goats, and meats and fish we raise or hunt ourselves. We can accommodate dietary requirements, but really appreciate when visitors embrace our local foods.
What else ...
We'd love to host volunteers who have experience with kids and are eager to explore Haida Gwaii. The 20 hour/week volunteering leaves lots of time to get out and see this special place. We are happy to help you explore by lending a paddle board, bike or other gear. Having a car will help as there is no public transportation here. However, you can get around well by bike and needn't go far to enjoy some beautiful natural spots.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
Wi-fi and living space suitable for those working remotely while staying with us.
Space for parking camper vans
We have space to park a camper van, if needed.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
Hours expected
4 hours a day, 5 days a week
Feedback (9)
They're laid-back, generous, and very welcoming hosts who make sure you feel part of the family and are comfortable and happy with what you are doing.
The food was awesome - super tasty, healthy, and a great deal of it from the garden or sourced through… read more
Photos
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
They're laid-back, generous, and very welcoming hosts who make sure you feel part of the family and are comfortable and happy with what you are doing.
The food was awesome - super tasty, healthy, and a great deal of it from the garden or sourced through… read more
When we arrived we came up with a list of things that Jamie and Melissa wanted done at the… read more
Melissa and Jamie were super… read more
Thanks for the great time!
I first met everyone 2 years ago, when I stayed on Haida Gwaii as a volunteer at an hostel. They were friends of the owner and everyone spend the summer together in Sandspit. It didn't take long to call them friends myself.
The daughter, Bertie is a bright and cheerful child. And whenever I took care of her I had a great… read more
