Youth Program Volunteer

Summary
Youth Program Volunteers provide support through the form of supervision, planning, facilitation, and/or mentorship for our middle school and high school youth participants to ensure that each experience is positive and intentional. Volunteers enable youth to experience and contribute to the youth program activities which are fun, safe, social, and educational. Additionally, individuals, groups, or businesses can volunteer to lead a program based on their interests, expertise, and passions. Examples: Run a fitness class, teach an art lesson, lead a parent workshop, teach a culinary class.

Training & Supervision

• Attend general volunteer orientation
• Ongoing ‘on the job’ training and supervision conducted by You Matter 2 Staff
• Professional development opportunities to enhance work with youth

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist You Matter 2 staff with programming at Flossmoor Community Church or South Suburban surrounding locations:
  • Middle School Cohort (Twice/Month 3-6 PM)
  • High School Cohort (Twice/Month 3-6 PM)
  • Study Break on Us Support (Twice/Month 5-7 PM)
  • Teen Night Support (Once/Month 6-11 PM)
• Communicate with youth, parents, and families through emails and phone calls
• Provide appropriate leadership and positive role-modeling at all times to program participants
• Assist staff with set up and/or takedown of activities
• Assist staff with overall supervision of youth to ensure a safe and fun environment is maintained
• Plan and lead youth programs that guide and encourage youth to build positive relationships, leadership skills, and discover their passions after seeking approval and support from the Program Staff
• Exhibit effective communication and relationship building skills in listening and talking to youth, as well as communicating with You Matter 2 staff regarding concerns with youth
• Assist in serving and preparing food and/or with kitchen tasks, such as washing dishes
• Some programs such as hikes and athletic activities have specific physical requirements.  Please inform staff of any limitations or necessary accommodations.

Requirements

• Complete a background check
• Complete Training for Mandated Reporters or submit Certificate of Completion
• Be at least 21 years of age. Junior volunteers ages 18-20 (excluding current high school students) may be considered at the discretion of the CEO.
• Knowledge and experience of working with young people 
• Possess a commitment to be a responsible, compassionate, accountable, and respectful mentor to diverse youth ages 11-18.
• Must be dependable and punctual
• Be courteous and personable when dealing with the public
• Be self-directed, willing to take initiative, and detail-oriented

Time Commitment
You Matter 2 requests that volunteers commit to at least 1, 2-4 hours shift monthly, for 6 months. Volunteers are allowed full flexibility in scheduling shifts. You Matter 2 fully recognizes that burnout is a real issue in today’s world and in this line of work. We encourage volunteers to take time off as needed for self-care.

Benefits & Recognition

• Be a part of a growing, youth, and community-serving-based organization that is making a real impact in the lives of youth, families, and communities in the Chicago Southland.
• Satisfaction of watching youth learn and grow
• Respect and friendship of program members and teen leaders.
• Respect and gratitude of parents/guardians and community
• Be a part of building young people’s confidence, self-esteem, and identity
• Give young people the opportunity to create and express themselves
• Provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for young people
• Celebrate and nurture young people’s unique strengths and abilities
• Great opportunity to build nonprofit experience 
• Opportunity for advancement and increased skill development based on interest and ability
• Valuable work experience and transferable skills in the educational and youth development fields
• You Matter 2 will provide detailed reference letters for all volunteers who successfully complete their volunteer commitment
• Reimbursement for any expenses incurred (with prior agreement)

About You Matter 2
You Matter 2 is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides youth in 6th-12th grade with a safe space to develop positive relationships, leadership skills, and discover their passions. Our mission is to provide opportunities for youth to serve and make a difference in their community. As a result of our programs, our vision is for youth to remain civically engaged, be empowered to forge their own path, and have academic and lifelong success. For more information visit: www.youmatter2.org