Volunteer Opportunities

Y.O.U. volunteers are a vital component of our many programs. Volunteering provides a rewarding way to give something back to your community, and gives you the satisfaction of helping and guiding a child's academic and personal development. Here’s how you can help:

Serve as a mentor/tutor at a Y.O.U. Youth Center. These centers provide a friendly, structured environment where young people can work on homework individually or in small groups, as well as interact with their peers at a safe place. Volunteers provide homework help and encouragement to one or more students. Volunteers also lead activities, such as planned games and projects; community service projects; small group discussion; and informal recreation, while building positive, trusting relationship.  Our Mentor Y.O.U.th program is a unique opportunity to work with a youth at-risk of gang involvement.  We are seeking caring adults to volunteer weekly in this program.  Click here for a job description.

Saturday Breakfast Homework Club

This exciting program creates a one-on-one tutoring environment where the student and volunteer can develop a long-term, profound relationship. The Club also creates an opportunity for Y.O.U. families to engage in children’s academics. (Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, Evanston Public Library, Main Branch, 1703 Orrington Ave.)

Summer Program

Our programs don't stop at the end of the school year—we have a summer program packed with fun activities—Fourth of July float building, beach days, bike trips, and community gardening. We’ve taken field trips to Ravinia, Great America, and White Sox games.

Special Events

Help with special events. Projects may be one time only, short-term, or ongoing. They include fundraisers; outings; and community service projects, such as the wine tasting fundraiser hosted by the Junior Board and the Annual Dinner.

Administrative Support

We welcome volunteers interested in offering clerical or administrative support to management staff. Office support includes the phones, data entry, photocopying, mailings, and technical support.

Interested in Volunteering?

If you are interested in volunteering, please complete our volunteer application online. The process includes an interview, background check, and training session. For more information, contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at 847-866-1200 x 225.