Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunities at Ädelbrook
Ädelbrook is blessed to benefit from the dedication of many volunteers who give of their time and talent to help us better serve our communities. There are a number of opportunities for volunteers to get involved, whether by working directly with our youth or by working in areas which support our staff as they provide services to our young people and their families. The Volunteers from the community give them opportunities to interact in positive ways with individuals and diverse groups allowing them to practice the new skills they are developing. All volunteers go through orientation when they begin working with Ädelbrook. Additionally, they receive applicable training relevant to their volunteer work and ongoing supervision.
The Buddy Program
The Buddy Program was created in 1989 to bring mentors to the residents of Ädelbrook, including the group homes. Volunteers are matched as mentors with our youth to become supportive role models and friend as the youth work through their treatment. Mentoring with the Buddy Program allow Volunteers to develop a relationship with the youth through shared quality time and interests. Mentors are asked to commit to visiting with their “buddy” one hour per week for the duration of the young person’s stay with Ädelbrook. Currently, residents stay with us for an average of 9 months. Volunteers are welcome to visit more often and for longer periods of time (as long as visiting doesn’t interfere with their therapeutic appointments), however, this is the minimum commitment we require. Buddy Program Volunteers must be 21 years of age or older.
Tutoring
Tutors are needed to help our residents and students of The Ädelbrook Academy. Tutoring is a great way to connect with the youth in our programs and help them succeed in their academics. We ask our tutors to come in once a week and meet with students for an hour. Though we need tutors for all subjects, our most common needs are in math and language arts.
Activities
Activities volunteers work with our Volunteer Coordinator and Therapeutic Recreation staff to help with games and special activities for the youth in our programs. These activities are designed to promote good sportsmanship, cooperation and improving social skills for our young people. Activities volunteers can help sponsor an activity night of board games or perhaps a basketball game in our gymnasium. If an individual has a hobby or interest such as knitting, model building, sewing, yoga, or any other activity, we welcome them to come and teach a lesson (or several) to the youth here. Other larger scale ideas might include an ice cream social or a night of Bingo complete with prizes. Be creative! Themed socials are limited only by your imagination!
Events
Volunteers are needed to help with our fundraising events, such as the upcoming Golf for Kids Tournament and Ädelbrook's 125th Anniversary Gala. Event volunteers help secure donations and sponsors, help with booklet ads, secure participants, put up flyers and signage, and help at the event. Learn more about our signature Ädelbrook events or create your own fundraising event!
Office Help
Office volunteers are needed to help with filing, record keeping, assembling mailings and other office related tasks. Office help is needed in all of our programs and in our Administrative offices.
Interested in Volunteering?
For more information about any of these volunteer opportunities, contact the Director of Admission and Program Development, Carol Buikus at (860) 635-6010 x5825 or fill out the form below.
