4 Ways to Volunteer – Virtual & Ongoing Opportunities

In response to COVID-19, we’ve shifted a number of our job training and career services online. We’ve also seen an increased need for employment and support services as many people have lost jobs in recent months. This shift has created a new need for virtual volunteers and elevated the need for a number of our ongoing volunteer opportunities. This post will help you learn about these new roles and ongoing opportunities. As a volunteer, you’re helping others advance in their personal and professional journeys as they gain economic mobility and open new doors for their families. To start volunteering or for questions, contact:

Kansas City Region: Email – Aliyah McBride

St. Louis Region: Email – Volunteer & Mentor Coordinator

Professional Women’s Group Presenter or Discussion Leader: 1-2 hours 

Our Professional Women’s Group (PWG) offers women a welcoming space to network, learn and grow professionally. The group ranges from women just starting out in the professional world to women who have many years of work experience. They typically meet one Saturday a month but have moved to bi-weekly video chats since COVID-19 began impacting our community.

We’re seeking individuals who can join one or more of these gatherings to speak 15-20 minutes on personal/professional development topics or lead related Q&A discussions. Past speakers/facilitators have talked about topics like financial planning, healthy lifestyles/wellness and tips for networking. Volunteers will still be needed at monthly gatherings when we’re able to meet safely in person again.

Kansas City PWG: Video chats take place 12-1pm, Tuesdays and Fridays

Midwest PWG (St. Louis): Video chats take place 12-1pm, Mondays and Thursdays

Connect Night Volunteer: 1.5-2 hours 

On Connect Nights, program participants, their families, staff members and volunteers come together for a time of games, activities and community. We typically gather in person on Monday nights and share a meal before diving into activities, but we’ve shifted our Connect Nights online for now.

We’re seeking volunteers to join in the fun and spend time connecting with our program alumni, many of whom could use some friendly encouragement at this time.

Every other Monday from 6-7:30pm (May 11, May 25…)

Personal and Professional Development Training Speaker: 0.5-1 hour

Through our 3-week Personal and Professional Development Trainings, we generally work with job seekers who face added barriers to finding and maintaining a career. The course helps participants learn to navigate these challenges while building soft skills, identifying their strengths/interests and developing effective job search strategies.

We’re seeking volunteers who can join one or more of these trainings and present for 20-30 minutes on personal/professional development topics or lead related Q&A discussions. Topics can vary: networking tips, budgeting, home buying, stress reduction, work/life balance, etc.

Time slots are available during the day and some evening opportunities are open in May.

Mentors: 1-2 hours weekly

We’re seeking volunteers to pair up with people who have recently completed Personal and Professional Development Training with us. As a mentor, you’ll offer friendly support and encouragement as they work toward their personal and professional goals. You can help reduce isolation for others withoutleaving home through calls, emails and other connections. We’ll provide mentor training and support!