Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ

Overview

The Chicago Help Initiative is looking for volunteers who are interested in helping to provide timely content for their website, which is currently being updated. This includes various writing and photography opportunities. Other opportunities, like website design/maintenance, may be available as well.

You can read more about CHI and their work at .

Schedule

Weekly schedule and flexible time

Contact

Please contact Susan at susannetedrick2014@u.northwestern.edu

Overview

Children’s Home + Aid provides comprehensive support to children in the area, including adoption services, family counseling, and foster care. With a history of service spanning over a century, their mission is to create hope, opportunity, and bright futures by partnering with children, youth, and families whose potential is at risk.

Volunteer Schedule

Foster Friend

Build a relationship with a child in foster or residential care (ages 7-13) in need of a positive adult role model. Provide support and fun to a child who closely matches your interests, background, and personality. Mentoring can include playing games and sports, arts & crafts, helping with schoolwork, career exploration, life skills development, and cultural or entertainment events. The ultimate goal is to enhance the child’s emotional, intellectual and social growth. Foster Friends must be 21 years old, be willing to make a 9-month volunteer commitment and are asked to meet with the child once a week for a total of 4-10 hours per month. 

Fitness Friend

Lead a group of youth or be paired one-on-one to do activities in physical fitness activities including athletics, fitness training, dance, yoga or group exercise. 

Homework Helper

Assist youth to lay a foundation for academic success by providing educational support. Homework Helpers spend 1-2 hours per week with a child in Residential Treatment or our Community Schools Programs on a set day, depending on the availability of the volunteer. Homework Helpers are asked to make a minimum 5-month volunteer commitment. 

Contact Info

For more information about volunteering in the Chicago area, contact Vera Jungé, Volunteer Coordinator, at Vjunge@childrenshomeandaid.org or 312-455-5222, or visit 

Overview

Campus Kitchens is a national leader in hunger relief. They partner with high schools, colleges, and universities to share on campus kitchen space, recover food from cafeterias, and prepare food for the community.

Volunteer Schedule

We have volunteer opportunities, 7 days a week throughout the year. They can all be found on our 
Anyone can create an account and register for a shift they would like to volunteer at.

Contact Info

• Samantha Warren, MPH, CHES
• Coordinator, the Campus Kitchen at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ University
• swarren@campuskitchens.org
• 847-491-6925 (office)

Overview

TPAN works to prevent the spread of HIV, while empowering everyone living with, or at risk of HIV to live healthy, open, and productive lives. They are committed to raising awareness about sexual health and spreading wellness through education, peer support services, and much more. 

Condom kits are one of the main ways we get the word out about TPAN's free services to help folks stay healthy and happy. THANK YOU for making this possible!

This is a great way to meet new people, learn about HIV prevention and sexual health, give back to the community, pick up volunteer service hours, and just have fun.

Schedule

Starting February 2, on every first Tuesday of the month, TPAN hosts condom kit assembly parties, 5 - 7 p.m., at its main office, 5050 N Broadway, Suite 300. Light refreshments are provided.

Contact Info

Questions? Contact Julia at j.napolitano@tpan.com, or 773 989 9400 ext 272. RSVPs are helpful but not required.

Overview

Cornerstone Community Outreach provides nutritious food and essential clothing, and much needed to shelter to those need. Their support focuses in families with young children and the elderly homeless population. Since 1989, they have sheltered over 25,000 individuals.

Volunteer Schedule

Serving Meals

(The volunteer hours are available any day of the week with appointment)

• Breakfast 6:45 am - 9:00 am
• Lunch 10:30 am - 1:30 pm
• Dinner 3:30 pm - 6:30 pm
• Community Meal (open to the public) only on Saturdays from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm

Working in the Food Pantry

(available with appointment only)

• Once a week we open our food pantry doors to distribute a variety of dried, canned and fresh food items to any community member in need.
• Wednesday mornings from 9:00 am - 11:30 am

FreeStore

(available with appointment)

We have an 11,00 square foot free thrift store we run twice a week. Volunteers would act as personal shoppers, help keep the space clean and organized or restock shelves.

Thursday or Friday mornings from 9:30 am to Noon

Contact Info

• Sarah Wright volunteers@ccolife.org
• Volunteers Coordinator
• Cornerstone Community Outreach

4628 N. Clifton Ave.
Chicago, IL 60640
cell: 773-574-5506
fax: 773.303.0116

Overview

826CHI is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting students ages 6 to 18 by developing their creative and expository writing skills, as well as supporting teachers by inspiring students to write. Our services are structured around the understanding that great leaps in learning can happen with one-on-one attention, and that strong writing skills are fundamental to future success. With this in mind, we work with volunteers to provide free drop-in tutoring, after-school workshops, field trips, in-school classroom assistance to youth in the city of Chicago, as well as publish student writing and provide assistance to English language learners.

All of our programs are challenging and enjoyable, and ultimately strengthen each student's power to express ideas effectively, creatively, confidently, and in his or her individual voice. Our volunteers are at the very center of what we do at 826, allowing us the incredible opportunity to work with more than 3,500 students a year from over 355 school across Chicago. Volunteers provide invaluable support to 826, most often through participation in educational programming.

Schedule

We offer opportunities during the mornings, afternoons and evenings throughout the week and weekend, making it possible for volunteers with varying availability to easily become involved.

Contact

tracy@826chi.org

Overview

The IEEE Chicago Section is looking for volunteers for their Science Kits for Public Libraries project.
The project exists to inspire and engage children in a lifelong pursuit of scientific discovery by providing funds for the creation of a science kit collection that can be borrowed just like a book. Started in 2009, the IEEE - Chicago Section Fund provided the seed money to start the “Science Kits for Public Libraries” pilot program at the Mount Prospect Public Library in Illinois. Since that time, over 20 grants totaling more than $40,000 have been awarded to Chicago Metro suburban libraries and over $20,000 to 12 branches of the Chicago Public Library.

Volunteer opportunities include:
- Prepare content for communicating the status and happenings of the project
- Identify and contact potential corporate sponsors
- Participate in fund raising initiatives
- Prepare grant proposals
- Engage Chicago Section members

Please go to  for more information. 

Schedule

Weekly

Contact

Please contact: susannetedrick2014@u.northwestern.edu

Overview

Back on My Feet seeks to revolutionize the way our society approaches homelessness. Our unique running-based model demonstrates that if you first restore confidence, strength, and self-esteem, individuals are better equipped to tackle the road ahead and move towards jobs, homes, and new lives. You can learn more about our program by visiting our web page at Chicago.backonmyfeet.org. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Back on my Feet runs at 5:45a.m with our members at different trusted community housing locations in Chicago. 

Schedule

Monday-Friday hours are flexible 

Contact

Please contact Nina Castillo for more information at (773)697-8508 or by email nina.castillo@backonmyfeet.org. 

Overview

The mission of our organization is to develop and champion opportunities for people with serious mental illness by providing comprehensive services in housing, employment and clinical support so that each person can live as independently as possible.
Please visit our website at  to learn more about our organization, our mission and the people we serve.

We are looking for a part-time volunteer receptionist. Flexible days/hours. Responsibilities to include managing the phone, ordering supplies, sorting mail and supporting the CEO by helping schedule meetings. 

Schedule

Our business hours are 9 am - 5 pm Monday through Friday. We are flexible with the days and hours of this volunteer opportunity. 

Contact

Please email dmalikowski@impactbehavioral.org for more information.

Overview

North Shore Exchange is Glencoe's nonprofit resale boutique offering an edited collection of upscale and luxury designer women's clothing and accessories, as well as beautiful furniture and home décor. All of our profits support organizations providing human services for children and families at or below the poverty level.

Have passion for fashion and interiors as well as philanthropy? Interested in giving back to our community? Over 40 people of all ages volunteer their time, talents, and resources to assist North Shore Exchange's work. Our success is dependent upon our committed volunteers - Join us!

Positions include customer service, IT, special projects and many other opportunities. To learn more about volunteering, please visit our website at .

Schedule

Glencoe Location (372 Hazel Ave, Glencoe IL 60022)
Tuesday - Saturday: 10a-5p
Closed Sundays/Mondays

Chicago Location (900 N. Michigan, Chicago IL)
Monday - Saturday: 10a-6p
Sundays: 11a - 7p

We are flexible and will work with your schedule, 4 hour shifts preferred.

Contact

Please email jamie@northshoreexchange.org for more information.

Overview

Art Buddies is an after-school program at partner schools in Minneapolis and St. Paul. As an Art Buddy, you’ll work one-one-one with a 3rd-5th grade student (ages 8-11) alongside other volunteers and their buddies once a week for 7 to 10 weeks, depending on the school schedule. Each child works with their Art Buddy to create an imaginative costume that reflects their unique interests, strengths and dreams. With the help and guidance of their creative mentors, kids are able to explore their creativity and build something more ambitious than they ever thought possible.

Schedule

Art Buddies would be for one day of the week (approximately 2 hours) during the weeks of March 19, 26, April 9, 16, 23, 30. There are three locations and a different day of the week at each location.

Contact

Please email chelsea@artbuddies.org for more information.

Overview

Curt's enrolls at-risk youth in the Evanston community, providing job training and classroom
education to help teens gain confidence and the skillsets they need to find employment. Students
are referred by probation officers, Youth Job Centers, social services agencies, police officers,
city outreach personnel, and family and friends of graduates or current students. After their
training, Curt’s Cafe assists with job placement and helps them transition into full-time
employment. The Cafe is fully operational and open to the community. There are at least 30 new
students per cafe through the program each year.

Schedule

How to Help:
• Volunteer directly with students
• Volunteer in the restaurant
• Participate in fundraising efforts

Contact

Please contact karen@curtscafe.org for more information.

Overview

Social service agency that serves the greater Rogers Park area, providing affordable and free
education, employment, and health assistance programs to people of all ages. Website: 

Schedule

How to Help:
Howard Area Reading Program Tutor: Helps 3rd and 4th grade students improve their
reading skills and boost their confidence in the HARP after-school program
Schedule: October - May, 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Mondays and Wednesdays: 3rd and 4th graders
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 2nd grades

Contact

Please contact volunteers@howardarea.org for more information.

Overview

Book Buddies is a Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ student group that partners with local preschools to promote
literacy and tutor young people in reading.

Schedule

How to Help:
• Weekly meetings: Every Friday from 3-5pm throughout the quarter
• Continuous volunteers can sign up via weekly email
• New volunteers can sign up as they are free on a week-by-week basis

Contact

Please contact bookbuddiesnu@gmail.com for more information.

Overview

Literacy Works is an organization dedicated to strengthening adult literacy, parent education,
and workforce development programs.

Website:  

Schedule

How to Help:
Adult Tutors needed to assist with reading and writing, math, and spoken English

Contact

Please contact training@litworks.org for more information.

Overview

Family Focus promotes the well being of children from birth by supporting and strengthening
families in and with their communities through early childhood development, youth development,
and family support services.

Website: 

Schedule

How to Help:
• Read to a Child (contact fakelia.guyton@family-focus.org)
• Tutoring and Mentoring (contact lachisa.barton@family-focus.org)
• Part-Time Receptionist (contact cheryl.brown@family-focus.org)
• Help a Child Read (contact dotsongeorge@gmail.com)
• Homework Help (contact lachisa.barton@family-focus.org)

Contact

Please contact kelsey.miklos@family-focus.org for more information.

Overview

Learning Bridge Early Education Center is a daycare focused on play, enrichment, and learning.

Website: 

Schedule

How to Help:
• Occasional volunteers needed to assist in special events, work in the garden, and reshelve
libraries
• Regular volunteers needed for longer-term projects

Contact

Please contact MerdingerJ@lbeec.org for more information.

Overview

This program helps youngest learners develop a love of reading using classic picture books.

Website: 

Schedule

How to Help:
Volunteers work with 1 elementary school teacher (2nd-5th grade) and 2-4 students (oneon-one)
throughout the school year from October-May. These sessions usually last 1 hour
and all volunteers need to attend a 90 minute training session.

Contact

Please contact fluencytutors@district65.net for more information.

Overview

This program helps Evanston's youngest elementary school students gain math skills by playing fun games.

Schedule

Tutors meet with a small group of 2-4 students to play games (materials provided) once a week for 30 minutes at a time.  Tutors are paired with one teacher and see the same students each session. Program runs from October through May, during school hours (9am to 3:30pm). There is flexibility in the schedule.

Contact

Please contact fluencytutors@district65.net for more information.

Overview

Literature For All of Us uses books and writing to facilitate circles of connection, health and
growth. Programs include Activating Youth (Workshops led by teaching artists centered on
cultural identities and experiences), Juvenile Justice (Book groups and programming centered
on unpacking and contextualizing systems of oppression), Family Literacy (Which focuses on
empowering young parents and teaching how to share their developing love of reading with their
children), LGBTQ+ programming, Workforce Development, and Special Program Events.

Website: 

Schedule

How to Help:
• Volunteers to help out at special events, complete various administrative tasks
• Actively seeking volunteers who can donate special skill sets (ie. IT support, web design,
videography, photography, graphic design, etc.)

Contact

Please contact Info@literatureforallofus.org for more information.

Overview

Books & Breakfast provides a morning program, which includes a healthy meal and homework
tutoring. Books & Breakfast has three locations: Dewey Elementary School, Lincolnwood
Elementary School, and Kingsley Elementary School

Website: 

Schedule

How to Help:
• Regular volunteers (Once weekly, 8am-9am weekdays)
• Substitute tutoring

Contact

Please contact info@booksbreakfast.org for more information.

Overview

Y.O.U. Evanston partners with families, schools, and the community to provide academic, social,
and emotional support to youth and families. Its program model has three parts: out-of-school
time programs, mental health counseling, and parent Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵhip and engagement.

Website: 

Schedule

How to Help:
• One-time volunteer opportunities
• Administrative/Program Support (Long term)
• Out-Of-School Time Volunteering

Contact

Please contact efellows@youthopportunity.org for more information.

Overview

A national non-profit focused on strengthening communities and embedding ideals of social
responsibility. Programs include: School's Out, an after-school program hosted at the Foster
Reading Center, which provides homework help, academic support with a focus in literacy, and
involves volunteer reading buddies, as well as various mentorship programs.

Schedule

How to Help:
• Y Readers: Reading Buddies (30 minutes every Friday for 6 weeks)
• Y Achievers: Mentors for High School Students
• Project SOAR: One-on-one mentoring (1 year minimum commitment)
• Tutoring: 1000 Grove (one-on-one, once weekly, 18+), Foster Reading Center (one-onone,
once weekly)

Contact

Please contact Volunteers@mcgawymca.org for more information.

Overview

We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit working to help low-income students throughout Chicago gain a better education through learning to play chess. We are looking for a volunteer webmaster who can help improve our website and keep it updated. Time commitment is flexible around your schedule, maybe 1 to 3 hours per week on an ongoing basis. It's an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in children's lives and get real hands-on experience overseeing the website of a professional organization. We need someone upon whom we can rely to do high quality work. Our website, , runs on WordPress.

Schedule

Website development, improvement, updates, and maintenance mostly flexible around your schedule.

Contact

Please contact eli.rollman@chicagolandchess.org for more information.

Overview

The Young Evanston Arts Foundation provides a forum and celebration for the exhibition of visual and performing arts for all the children of Evanston in an outdoor festival that occurs in May. The 30 year old organization has recently reorganized and is looking for volunteers to support the organization with Marketing, Website Development, Community Relations and Festival Support on Saturday May 19th. For more information see our website . We would also like to discuss the integration of NU into this wonderful community event with aspiring artists at NU.

Thank you, Alex Schultheis

Schedule

3-5 volunteers ongoing till May 30, 2018 at 4 hours/week. Upwards of 10 volunteers May 19th 2018 all day to assist with the festival management.

Contact

Please contact alexschultheis@comcast.net for additional information.

Overview

St. Joseph services is dedicated to improving the lives of adults and students we serve with supplemental education. We provide ESL, citizenship, and computer literacy courses for adults and tutoring services for our after school students. Our volunteers are integral to the success of our program; they are dedicated student aides or ESL instructors themselves after our free TEFOL training. We have wide availability for K-8th tutoring and one on one ESL instruction. Our student aides are also welcome to create clubs to teach students new skills, crafts, or games.

Schedule

Our volunteer schedule varies based on chosen program. The after school program hours 2-6 pm weekdays in Austin and Humboldt Park.
Computer literacy hours are 11a-2pm weekdays in Humboldt Park
ESL courses are both in the morning 10-11:30 daily and 6-7:30p daily in Humboldt Park, Avondale and Glenview. We also have one Saturday ESL class in Avondale 10-1.
You are welcome to volunteer as much or as little as you like.

Contact

Please contact dharris@stjosephservices.org for additional information.

Overview

Needs include volunteers to make phone calls to past Illinois Lupus Walk participants and inform them on the upcoming walks. Other duties may include data entry, office reception, office management, fundraising, customer service, community outreach, taking inventory on walk supplies, folding and counting t-shirts and performing general office services.

Schedule

This is an ongoing opportunity from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. 

Contact

Please contact taurean@lupusil.org for additional information.

Overview

Variety of Illinois is looking for volunteers to join our Junior Board for Young Professionals and Students. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for children with disabilities by providing the equipment and experiences needed to reach their highest potential. We accomplish this through programs such as:

Variety at Play - offering inclusive, accessible activities for the whole family
Kids on the Go - provides mobility equipment not covered by insurance for children with disabilities
Live to Achieve - encourages participation & excellence in adaptive sports

Through a network of 44 chapters in 13 countries, Variety the Children’s Charity envisions a state where all children can actively participate in their communities and experience the joys that come with being a kid!

We were hoping to engage Volunteers in the following ways, depending on their interests:

1. Help Plan Special Events (Events Committee) - Team up with a Senior Board member or Executive Director to come up with a concept for a fundraiser or event for the kids and work together to execute it.
2. Help Plan Social Media - Team up with a Senior Board member or Executive Director to collaborate on and design Social Media posts to increase reach.
3. Help Plan for Variety's Future - Team up with a Senior Board member or Executive Director to come up with new and exciting ways to engage donors.
4. Help Plan Variety's Strategic and Financial Well Being - Team up with a Senior Board member or Executive Director to come up with ideas for differentiating Variety, tracking donations, and budgeting for the future
5. Help Volunteer Generally - We are also looking for general volunteers who are interested in Variety's mission.

Schedule

Ongoing

Contact

Please contact Aditi Tripathi (aditi.tripathi@gmail.com) if you are interested. Thanks!

Overview

OFFERS THREE FABULOUS TUTORING PROGRAMS: EVERYBODY READS, MATH IS FUNDAMENTAL, AND KINDERGARTEN LITERACY PARTNERS. THESE PROGRAMS SUPPORT INDIVIDUALS AND SMALL GROUPS OF STUDENTS TO GIVE THEIR LEARNING A NEEDED BOOST. AS A TUTOR, YOU WILL RECEIVE TRAINING AND ALL THE MATERIALS YOU'LL NEED TO GET STARTED. THE TIME COMMITMENT IS ABOUT AN HOUR EACH WEEK WITH STUDENTS FROM ONE CLASSROOM DURING SCHOOL HOURS. IT'S AMAZING HOW BIG OF AN IMPACT A LITTLE BIT OF YOUR TIME CAN HAVE ON STUDENTS' ACADEMIC GROWTH!

Everybody Reads (a one-on-one reading fluency program, grades 2-5, 2x/week, 45-60 min.)

Math is FUNdamental (a small group Math games program, 1st grade, 1x/week, 30 min.)

Kindergarten Literacy Partners (a small group reading fluency program, kindergarten, 2x/week, 30 min.)

All new tutors must complete one training session and a back ground check. To register for a training session, email fluencytutors@district65.net. You can also .
Questions? Please contact Lincoln's Tutoring Coordinator, Lara Zalmezak, at 773-841-1006 or email lara.zalmezak@gmail.com.

Schedule

Ongoing

Contact

Please contact Lincoln's Tutoring Coordinator, Lara Zalmezak, at 773-841-1006 or email lara.zalmezak@gmail.com.

Overview 

Y.O.U. offers after-school and summer programs that serve more than 1,500 young people each year. Our programs are offered daily at 11 sites across the community: five elementary schools, five middle schools, and ETHS. Our Out-Of-School Time programs have three parts: academic enrichment, social development, and emotional support. All of our programs have individual tutoring available to help youth build their academic skills, as well as fun, experiential learning activities such as field trips, STEAM workshops, and community engagement projects.

Out-of-School Time (OST) Program Volunteers
Volunteers commit at least one day a week during the school semester to encourage youth development and knowledge on subject areas such as Math, English, and Reading Comprehension.

Homework Helpers: Guide youth in elementary (grades 3-5) or middle (grades 6-8) school through their day’s homework assignments.
Tutors: Support high school youth (grades 9-12) with one-on-one tutoring in advanced subject areas such as English, Algebra, Calculus, Biology, and Chemistry.

All Out-of-School Time Volunteers Must:

➢ Share a passion for Y.O.U.’s mission and helping youth succeed
➢ Possess open, nonjudgmental attitudes
➢ Demonstrate good communication and Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵhip skills
➢ Be at least 16 years of age
➢ Aim to commit to at least 1 hour per week for a minimum of one academic semester
➢ Have a proven record of dependability
➢ Be willing to undergo a background check and other requirements
➢ Attend at least one orientation prior to working with Y.O.U. youth for the first time

Schedule

Ongoing

Contact

Please contact volunteer@youthopportunity.org, if you have any questions.

Overview 

We are a non-profit organization serving young adults with disabilities, learning challenges, and mental health issues. We are in need of a volunteer mentor for some of our students.
We would like for the volunteer mentor to be available at least one hour per week per student assigned.
The opportunity would require one on one interaction with the student, processing daily hardships and how to work through challenges in a healthy way, working on independent living skills (transportation, appropriate dress, time management, planning, etc.) and social skills. Every one of our students is different, and they require different services and approaches.

Schedule

This is an ongoing opportunity. We are flexible but do request as much consistency as possible in your schedule, as well as a dedicated time frame of six months.

Contact

Please contact skolkey@optionsforcollegesuccess.org, if you have any questions.

Overview 

ITA is seeking a total of 30 volunteer companions for our Musical Bridges to Memory program, an interactive music research program for family members and individuals experiencing cognitive decline as a result of aging. We would love to welcome you to our team!
Our program could not run without the help of our amazing team of volunteers. Each week you would be paired with a resident to guide them through the program and fill in when their family member is not able to attend.
The program includes a 30-minute family debrief and inquiry group followed by an interactive 45-minute music performance by a quartet of professional musicians, where family members and caregivers practice connecting with their loved ones using music, instruments, and movement. After the performance, members participate in a 30-minute break-out social group. In collaboration with Dr. Borna Bonakdarpour, the program will begin research at Silverado’s memory care unit at the Highland Park campus in January of 2019.
Volunteer companions will:
* help set up/restore the space for the performance and breakout groups,
* interact with their assigned resident during the performance
* act as a "stand-in" for family members not present, and
* attend a training workshop on working with individuals with dementia and music engagement strategies on January 13th as well as commit to the entire 16 week program.

Schedule

The research program will run from 1:30PM - 4:30PM on Saturdays from January through April, 2019.

Contact

For more information please contact Amanda Ziemba at (847)448-8332 or aziemba@itachicago.org

Overview 

After School Program for Refugee Youth

Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ: The Youth and Family Services team conducts After School Program (ASP) twice a week in West Ridge and Rodgers Park. Volunteers will work 1-1 with youth ages 5-12 on their basic homework assignments alongside Heartland staff. The goal of this program is to create a safe space for youth to focus on homework and language acquisition. Group activities usually take place in the second half of programming.

Good match for: Those who are patient, kind, and passionate about empowering youth. Must be comfortable with working with English language learners.

Where: West Ridge and Rodgers Park on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4pm-6pm

Schedule

Time commitment and requirements:
• Pass an online criminal history background check. The cost is $18.00 and must be covered by the volunteer.
• Completed online DCFS Mandated Reporter training.
• Volunteer for at least 2 hours a week.

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact: alwilson@heartlandalliance.org. 

Overview 

We are a non for profit organization dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities live a full and more independent life. We created sustainable solutions through community living options, personal networks, support and yearly activities to keep our participants connected to each other and community. We welcome all NU volunteers throughout the year to help with our activities, fundraisers, and support of our individuals. We could not continue to grow and thrive as an organization without our volunteers. Thank you.

Schedule

Ongoing

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact: jannenberg@independentfutures.com

Overview 

North Shore Village is in need of friendly visitors to visit and spend time with older adults. Our friendly visiting program is a great way to make a difference in someone’s life on a regular basis. You can share in conversation or if you’d like, do something together you both find of interest.
also

North Shore Village needs volunteer drivers to provide transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, social/educational events or other errands. Volunteer drivers pick up, drive them to their destination, and return them to their homes. Drivers are needed for regularly scheduled trips and periodic trips. When appropriate, the volunteer driver will assist the member to and from the door of his or her house or apartment, and help them carry packages.

Schedule - Ongoing

We are so appreciative of our volunteers and we understand scheduling can be tricky sometimes. To that end, we work around your schedule. Also keep in mind, you only have to accept the driving opportunities which work with your schedule. You can commit to a regular driving commitment or choose to pick-up opportunities as they come up. Friendly visits can be scheduled flexibly based on availability. We work to match visitors and 'villagers' with shared interests, and availability.

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact: mmcculloch@northshore-village.org

Overview 

Suncrest Hospice is recruiting volunteers for the special opportunity to become a hospice companion. You will be paired with an individual receiving our services and establish a friendly visiting schedule that works for you.

We ask for 1-hour visits per week, during which time you may engage in conversation and activities such as playing cards, reading, looking through old photographs, painting nails, and whatever else you and your match come to enjoy!

We have many patients seeking a visitor in the Chicagoland area. We provide in-depth training for new volunteers as well as guidance and support throughout your time as a volunteer.

We hope you will consider joining our team of compassionate caregivers to make a difference in the lives of those facing end-of-life.

Schedule 

Ongoing 

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact: ikutechko@suncrestcare.com

Overview 

Do you have an interest in science? Do you enjoy sharing knowledge with others?

If yes, then consider becoming a Discovery Squad volunteer. This program is designed to enhance visitors experiences through object-based learning using artifacts or specimens from The Museum's collection. Volunteers will engage visitors in a fun and entertaining way while teaching them what scientists can learn from these objects and their importance to The Field Museumﾒs vast collections.

Discovery Squad volunteers spend a minimum of 3 hours a day standing, they should be outgoing and energetic. They must possess the skills and desire to interact and communicate with people of all ages and backgrounds. Theater and/or teaching experience is preferred. Bilingual volunteers are a plus.

Volunteers must be able to sign up for at least 4 shifts (10am-1pm or 12pm-3pm) per month, or 2 full days from 10am-3pm (includes a 45min lunch break).

Field Museum volunteers receive wonderful benefits including free parking, free admission to The Field Museum for volunteers and their family, and access to weekly scientific seminars and lectures.

Schedule - Ongoing

Volunteers must be able to sign up for at least 4 shifts (10am-1pm or 12pm-3pm) per month, or 2 full days from 10am-3pm (includes a 45min lunch break).

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact:mbradley@fieldmuseum.org.

Overview 

John Middleton Elementary School is located at 8300 N. St. Louis Street in Skokie. We are working to establish a large butterfly garden with native plants and are maintaining a seasonal organic vegetable garden. We are in need of volunteers to help weed, water, plant, and harvest.

Schedule - Ongoing

We work together primarily April through October. The schedule will vary and be based on the best fit for individuals and small groups.

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact egregg@sd735.org

Overview

Our school is a nearby therapeutic public day school that exclusively educates students with multiple disabilities. Our Transition program, consisting of young adults ages 17-22, is looking for opportunities to integrate into the community in a fun and inclusive way! We seek friends to socialize with over coffee, lunch, ice cream, walks along the lake, games/books at Evanston Library, or even in the Norris Center game room!

We are seeking individuals or a group who may be interested in spending time with us out in the community during the school hours of 9-3, while accompanied by certified staff. If you are passionate about the inclusion of people with disabilities, interested in experiencing fulfilling interactions, and/or developing meaningful friendships, please consider being a friend to someone with a disability.

Schedule - Ongoing

We are seeking about one hour one time a month.

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact oharak@district65.net.

Overview

North Shore Exchange () is a nonprofit luxury resale organization with three retail locations (Glencoe, Chicago and Skokie/Westfield Old Orchard) as well as an online store. To date we have donated nearly $2 million to Chicagoland charities serving children and families in need with a particular focus on charities that address the issues of abuse, disabilities, hunger, homelessness, the elderly, social justice, and more.

We need help within our marketing department product photographers. Shifts are available on the weekends and we are reaching out to find out if you might have any students studying photography who might be interested. We are especially in need of volunteers for our Skokie/Old Orchard location.

Our product photography volunteers use their Iphones to shoot and take pictures of our products for our website. We would also welcome more creative shots for use on social media.

Here is a brief description of the role:

If you can take a decent picture and have a passion for our mission, please consider joining our amazing volunteer team as a photographer. Our volunteer photographers are responsible for taking pictures of our merchandise, from clothing and handbags to jewelry, shoes and home decor items. These pictures are used to sell merchandise on our online store and also in our marketing efforts including email marketing and social media.

Our photography volunteers follow a provided, predetermined format for our product photography that allows us to present a consistent look to the products we feature online. Training is provided. Photos are shot square/no larger than 1000 x 1000, and uploaded no longer than 24 hours after the volunteer session to our shared Dropbox folder.

The product photography volunteer is a vital one for North Shore Exchange and we appreciate your interest and support of our mission. The time you share will help make a difference in the lives of the Chicagoland children and families we serve.

Schedule - Ongoing

We ask for a three hour/week commitment. We are in particular looking for volunteers Friday, Saturday or Sunday during store hours (10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Fri/Sat, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Sundays).

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact sheilah@northshoreexchange.org

Overview

The Marillac Food Pantry serves individuals and families on the West Side of Chicago by providing access to food, nutrition and health education, and connection to other needed resources. We serve 200-225 households throughout the week on our distribution days (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday), with the donated food that we sort and store (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our pantry is Client Choice, meaning that clients are able to select food that best fits their families’ needs, rather than receiving a pre-packed bag of groceries. Client Choice empowers clients to make nutrition and health-related decisions that best suits themselves and their families.
Depending on the day of the week, volunteers assist with processing orders and donations, or help with distribution including setup, restocking, shopping with clients, and cleanup. This is a wonderful opportunity to join a crew of lively and dedicated volunteers! Volunteers are able to take part in an important and often overlooked link in the food cycle, through meaningful service.

Schedule - Ongoing

Monday: 9:30am – 1:45pm (Distribution)
Tuesday: 11:30am – 2:30pm (Sorting/putting away food)
Wednesday: 11:30am – 6:15pm or 11:30am – 2:00pm, 2:00pm – 6:15pm (Sorting/putting away food from 11:30am – 2:00pm)
(Distribution from 3:00pm– 6:00pm)
Thursday: 11:30am – 2:30pm (Sorting/putting away food)
Friday: 9:00am – 12:45pm (Distribution)

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact Madeline.Kay@MarillacStVincent.org

Overview

Evanston Swims! is a community partnership program between the McGaw YMCA, the YWCA Evanston/North Shore, Goldfish Swim School and District 65 with the mission of teaching as many children as possible the importance of learning to swim and being safe in and around the water. It provides second grade children in Evanston public schools with free swim lessons and classroom water safety instruction.

Volunteers are needed to help in the water during swim lessons, as swim instructors, as classroom water safety instructors, or as chaperones.

Essential Functions:

• Enjoy working with elementary school students
• Complete a training session and clear District 65 background checks
• Able to commit to one afternoon a month during the school year

Schedule - Ongoing

Program volunteer shifts are usually once a month on Wednesday afternoons between 12–3:30 pm throughout the school year.

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact evanstonswims@ywca-ens.org.

Interested in volunteering with Evanston/Skokie School District 65 or Evanston Township High School District 202?  Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ University has 2 full time staff members who are SESP staff members, serving as Partnership Coordinators with the districts. Please contact them for more information about any engagement with the Evanston school districts!

Kristen Perkins, District 202, kristen-perkins@northwestern.edu

Jen Lewin, District 65, jenlewin@northwestern.edu

Overview

Support families and motivate students, by serving as a "Check-In Coach" with Lesson Check-In. Volunteers lend helping hands to parents and guardians, who may be overwhelmed by the hurdles of distance learning. They encourage students to stay focused and on track, despite the unique challenges of this time. A "Check-In Coach" is an undergraduate or graduate student, who is responsible for contacting a middle or high school student weekly to support the student’s academic and social progress. Coaches may assist students with assignment tracking, character development, classroom advocacy, and homework, as needed.

Lesson Check-In is an initiative to connect middle and high school students with undergraduate and graduate volunteers, who can motivate students to keep up with their distance learning tasks and achieve their personal goals. The organization was founded by young, Black professionals, who strive to uplift students and give back to the communities that raised them. They worried that distance learning would leave many students behind, and they wanted to do something about it. They need your help!

Sign up at 

Schedule - Ongoing

Flexible; Once a week communication for 30-60 minutes.

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact info@lessoncheckin.org.

Overview

We are looking for volunteer tutors who want to commit to tutoring newly arrived refugee students in Math and/or Reading for an hour every day from September through December. We are looking for dedicated and kind people who are enthusiastic about working with children! We have students from K-12 and we will pair each volunteer with a student for an individual tutoring session. We have online tutoring tools and experienced tutors who will guide volunteers through the process. All of our volunteers will need to undergo a background check. What these kids need more than anything is someone who believes in them and wants to invest time in them!

For more information and to apply, check out our website: 

Schedule - Ongoing

1 hour every week day between 4-9pm CDT from September through December.

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact marias@refugeefora.org.

Overview

ENGin is looking for volunteers aged 19-22 to serve as speaking buddies for international students. This is a super-flexible and unique opportunity to make a difference without leaving your room. Plus, you'll get to know peers across the world!

Here's how it works: we will pair you up with a Ukrainian student to video chat each week at times that are convenient for you. We match students and volunteers based on age, gender preference, interests, and schedules. All of our students have studied English, so you don't have to worry about reviewing grammar rules - just chat about school, the latest news stories, favorite books and movies, holiday plans, or anything else that's on your mind. We also provide tons of resources, activities, and ideas for you to use. Your speaking sessions can be 30-60 minutes long.

To join our team, please fill out this short form: . The form will help us understand your background and match you with a student. Once we receive your form, we will reach out to schedule a 15-20 minute video call to provide more details about volunteering with ENGin and answer any questions.

You can learn more about ENGin at . If you have any questions before signing up, please contact us at info@enginprogram.org.

Schedule - Ongoing

The commitment is 1-2 hours a week, and you choose your own schedule!

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact info@enginprogram.org.

Overview

Conversations to Remember is a 501C3 nonprofit. We match college students with cognitively declining residents who are in long term care communities for virtual visits. Our organization provides virtual training and ongoing support for the volunteers. The virtual visits are weekly, have 2-3 students on the video call with one long term care resident. Our senior citizens are from all around the USA as are our volunteers.

To volunteer for our program, a student should submit an interest form through our website: 

Schedule - Ongoing

We have new residents sign up for our program on a regular basis. When the facility that the resident resides in lets us know what day of the week and time the resident is available for a virtual visit. We send out the opportunities to our volunteers and they choose a day/time that they are able to commit to.

Contact

If you need additional information, please contact info@conversationstoremember.org