Cycle Toronto is growing quickly, and we are looking for more passionate people to join our Ward Advocacy Program to effect change across the city. By becoming a Ward Advocate you can connect with others, share skills and resources, and join the movements to transform Toronto into a more bicycle-friendly city!
How do I know if I’m a Ward Advocate?
Do you love riding a bike in Toronto? Do you love to spark conversations with people about cycling and related advocacy issues? Do you dream of a more bicycle-friendly city? Do you want to get involved with increasing Cycle Toronto's impact?
Besides wanting to share your love of cycling with others, you are dedicated, diligent, and ready to help out in a variety of ways. You are excited about creating a welcoming and fun atmosphere and working with Torontonians of all backgrounds.
So, what exactly does a Ward Advocate do?
As a ward advocate, you’re a key part of our outreach activities. There are many to getting involved, including:
- Run and attend regular meetings in your neighbourhood to advance the goals and projects of your ward group.
- Organize local events (e.g. socials and rides) to build community and spread awareness of how great riding a bike can be.
- Engage with other groups in your community, such as bike shops, Business Improvement Areas (BIA), Residents' Associations (RA), and other community groups.
- Build a relationship with your local councillor and other representatives from the City.
- Support the broader campaigns led by Cycle Toronto.
You’ll receive dedicated training at one of our volunteer orientation sessions, then you'll get access to events, and a one-of-a-kind t-shirt.
What have Ward Groups done?
Ward Advocacy Groups were instrumental in the creation of the Shaw Street bikeway, starting a dialogue about bike lanes on Yonge, demonstrating the need to save and expand Bike Share Toronto, and generating momentum for protected lanes on Eglinton.
Follow a Ward Group
Cycle Toronto's Ward Advocacy Program organizes by municipal ward accross Toronto. You can join one or more Ward Advocacy Group by adding yourself to their 'Google Group' on their ward page, as well as on Facebook and/or Twitter.
Use our handy map to search by address, and then follow the instructions to connect with your ward group.
Become a Ward Advocate!
Check out events page for upcoming volunteer orientation sessions to learn about how Cycle Toronto works, and where upcoming opportunities lie for you to plug in and make a difference. If Ward Advocacy sounds like the right fit and you’re eager get involved, please send a half page statement of interest telling us about yourself and why you’re interested in joining to Kevin Cooper, Campaigns and Engagement Manager, at kevin [at] cycleto [dot] ca. Please write “Ward Advocacy" in the subject line.
It’s important that all of our volunteers be members of Cycle Toronto. Not a member? Join now or ask about our barter-for-membership program.