"I always feel good about coming here, and I feel good when I leave. It's heartwarming to see a really sick baby come in and watch how they just get better and better with the proper attention and medical care."

- Betsy Sugarman, volunteer since 1992

Direct Care Volunteers

Individuals who work directly with children and families in our programs.

Opportunities Include:

• Residential Center: Assisting in the care and nurturing medically complex children in our 10-bed Residential Center.
• Early Learning Center: Assisting our teachers and helping children in one of our specialized classrooms at the Early Learning Center.
• Parent Support Groups: Providing childcare for children while their parents participate in support groups.

Direct Care Volunteer Requirements:

• 18 years of age or older.
• Attend a two-hour volunteer orientation and complete a detailed application process, including background check and drug screening.
• Commitment of six months from the start-date of volunteering. The Residential Center and Early Learning Center require weekly attendance. Parent support groups offer monthly opportunities.

Service Volunteers

Individuals who volunteer on a one-time basis, or who can't make an ongoing time commitment.

Opportunities Include:

• Special Events: Helping with set-up, event logistics, tear-down or one of the other many activities that help our fundraising events run smoothly. Events include the annual spring Gala, fall AIDS Run and Walk and others.
• Administrative Support: Assisting staff with appeal mailings, data entry, filing, etc.
• Gardening/Clean-Up Projects: Put that green thumb to use and help us plant flowers in the spring or prepare our grounds for Chicago's winter months.

Service Volunteer Requirements:

• 16 years of age or older.

How to Apply

The next step in applying for Direct Care or Service opportunities is to fill out our online application.

You will then begin receiving our monthly Volunteer E-Newsletter which lists the most current service opportunities and details. Those interested specifically in Direct Care opportunities will be contacted by a member of our staff with more information on the application process.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with The Children's Place Association. Please contact us for more information or questions about the process.