Volunteers are a welcome and important part of AFTER SCHOOL programs.  They may be college students fulfilling a class requirement, individuals with a special skill to share such as wood working or ethnic dancing or other people interested in finding out more about working with school age youth.  Volunteers may be placed in any of the 24 AFTER SCHOOL sites in the Dane Region or the 15 sites in the Waukesha Region.  Volunteering in AFTER SCHOOL's summer camps is also an option.  All volunteers fill out an application, attend a two-hour orientation and receive a criminal background records check.  Most volunteers are assigned to one program or day camp site and go there once a week for a college semester.  Others may come three times to one site to share a special skill.  The only requirement for volunteering at AFTER SCHOOL is an interest in spending time with children and the ability to be friendly and respectful towards children. 

What can our programs offer to volunteers?

• Valuable job experience
• An opportunity to explore the field of youth work
• The rewards of working with school age children
• A chance to use your creativity to plan activities
• Mentorship
• Training Opportunities

For more information about being an AFTER SCHOOL volunteer in Dane County programs contact Volunteer Coordinator Peter Bittner, 608-276-9782, voicemail at ext. 58. For information about volunteering in the Waukesha region contact CindySue Nielsen, Program Director, 262-547-8770, ext. 13. 

Want to volunteer at the Wisconsin Youth and Family Center?  We also have volunteer opportunities with middle and high school youth at the Wisconsin Youth & Family Center on Madison's west side.  Please contact, Ellie Maier, 608-276-9782, ext. 14 for more information.  Teen programs run from 3 to 8 p.m. weekdays.  Click here for a volunteer application. 

Want to volunteer with Celebrating Youth!?  It is Wisconsin Youth Company's annual event to showcase positive youth development through performance and art.  Thousands of attendees come to Monona Terrace in Madison to enjoy four stages of performances, an art exhibit, hands-on activities and exhibitors with resources for youth and families.  We need volunteers that weekend to help set up and break down, help with activities and more.  Please see www.celebratingyouth.org for more about the event, and contact the coordinator if you are interested in volunteering during this fabulous day of fun for the whole family.