Volunteer

Youth In Need was founded by community volunteers, and today, community friends remain invaluable in helping Youth In Need continue its mission and services.

Volunteers do everything from assisting children and teens in classrooms and residential facilities, to gardening and holding donation drives. Whether you can share an hour of your time or a week, we have an opportunity for you.

General Volunteer Opportunities

Thank you so very much for your interest in giving your time to Youth In Need! To learn more about our volunteer opportunities, contact Emily Birgenheier, Development Services Manager.

Practicum Opportunities

Masters-level students in the fields of social work and counseling can learn about available practicum opportunities at Youth In Need by e-mailing practicum@youthinneed.org. Practicum students gain experience with individual, family and group counseling, as well as case management, advocacy, networking and play therapy. Youth In Need requires a two-semester commitment.

Internship Opportunities

Undergraduate-level students should contact Youth In Need to learn about available internship opportunities. Interns can gain experience in a variety of fields, both administrative and client-based. Youth In Need does not include undergraduate-level students in its counseling programs.

Ongoing Volunteer Opportunities

Get your hands dirty! We have spacious grounds at various Youth In Need locations that are always in need of care and upkeep. Youth In Need has locations in six counties, so there is likely a location near you. Creative improvements to existing landscaping are welcome!

Be a friendly face at local events and community fairs.

Have a knack for helping kids learn? Enhance the learning experience of children, ages birth to 5, as a Classroom Assistant in our Early Learning Programs. Multiple locations and shifts are available to fit your schedule any day of the week.

Help us get organized! Help organize our wonderful community donations! We need helping hands on the second Tuesday and fourth Thursday of each month.

Hold a donation drive with your office, school, church or community group! Youth In Need will provide flyers and will come pick up the donations for you! Have fun by giving it a theme such as a “Tot Toothbrush Drive” or “Cozy Coats” winter coat drive.

Join us in the office! Your time is a huge gift to us! Help with everything from answering phones to filing. Available Monday through Friday.

Want to volunteer with other 20-, 30- and 40-somethings? Join our Young Professionals Group. Through networking, volunteering with our youth and organizing creative fundraising events, the Young Professionals Group is committed to making a positive change in our community. If you are interested in Youth In Need’s Young Professionals Group, please contact ypg@youthinneed.org.

Support the youth at our Emergency Shelter by providing assistance to staff in the office, in the kitchen, or just spending quality time with the kids and teens.

Share your knowledge. We are always learning at Youth In Need. Professionals and agencies dealing with topics such as physical/occupational therapy, mental health, medicine, health, nutrition, pedestrian safety and financial literacy are needed to provide services and trainings to children, teens, families and staff.

Have one day to give? Volunteer for a special event or fundraiser. Call to inquire about our next event; they are going on all year long.

Thank you so much for your interest! Whatever your schedule and comfort level, there is a place for you at Youth In Need.