Volunteer with YOTO

Youth On Their Own (YOTO) truly values the time, expertise, and talents of our volunteers. Opportunities vary in scope, frequency, and time commitment. The two main categories for volunteer opportunities at YOTO are Individual Volunteer Opportunities and Group Volunteer Opportunities. Current opportunities are listed below!

Individual Volunteer Opportunities

If you would like to be considered for an Individual Volunteer position, please fill out the Volunteer Application. If a position is open, we will be in touch to schedule an interview with you.

Please note:

  • Submitting an application does not guarantee that a volunteer position is currently available at Youth On Their Own.
  • Individual Volunteers must commit to at least four hours each week.
  • All volunteers must provide proof of COVID vaccination.
  • A background check is required for all Individual Volunteers.
  • YOTO does not offer mentorship or tutoring opportunities with youth. If you are interested in working directly with youth, we suggest you reach out to organizations in town that specialize in mentorship such as Big Brothers, Big Sisters.

Volunteers are responsible for greeting donors and visitors to Youth On Their Own,  receiving donations, addressing and preparing mailings, and other basic administrative duties. This position requires a high level of professionalism and a positive, friendly attitude. A commitment of at least four hours per week is required. Front Desk Volunteers must also pass a required background check.

Our Mini Mall provides students with basic needs such as food, hygiene items, cleaning supplies, and clothing. Mini Mall volunteers* assist with sorting and weighing donations, stocking shelves, ensuring students’ compliance with Mini Mall rules, and documenting inventory changes. A commitment of at least four hours per week is required. Mini Mall Volunteers must also pass a required background check.

Volunteers are assigned routes to local high schools where they deliver basic needs items to school liaisons for YOTO students. This opportunity is every Wednesday morning beginning September 7, 2022 until the end of the 2022-2023 school year. A commitment to the entire year is required along with a valid drivers license, proof of auto insurance, and background check.

Group Volunteer Opportunities

If you are interested in doing a group volunteer activity, please email Carissa McGrath, Volunteer & Events Coordinator, at [email protected].

YOTO youth need inspiration. With each academic stipend check they receive, YOTO includes a few handwritten notes of encouragement made by individuals in our community. Help motivate YOTO youth to succeed by creating some of these notes for youth! Precut notecards can be picked up at at the YOTO office (1660 N Alvernon Way). This is a great activity to do in groups, too!

Help YOTO’s Mini Mall remotely by repackaging bulk items such as tampons, pads, pencils, laundry pods and more into smaller bundles. This activity also works great in conjunction with a donation drive!