Volunteer

We rely on our community to help us to extend our reach and make a positive impact on the lives of children and young people.

Friends of Children offers many ways to support children in and aging out of the child welfare system. From shorter-term opportunities that support basic needs to longer-term involvement in advocacy and mentoring, we welcome volunteers with a range of skills and availability. In all cases, we are immensely grateful for volunteers who bring their heart and expertise to these vital efforts to support our work.

Please complete a volunteer inquiry so we can assess the best fit based on our needs and your capacity.

Ready to help?

Complete a Volunteer Inquiry Form so we can begin the process of finding the right opportunity for you.

Inquire Here

Are you looking for ways to make a significant impact by investing your time and skills in the lives of children?

The children we work for need you by their side! Our advocacy programs depend on the efforts of compassionate and skilled communicators to help ensure kids in our foster system get the support they need and deserve, whether that be in court or in the State House. These volunteer positions typically require a firm commitment for a defined period of time and participation in specialized training.

CASA_logo_

CASA volunteers are trained to advocate for children in the court system. People with the right skills and energy can make a major change in the lives of vulnerable children and youth.

Child walking on lawn

CASA volunteers must be 21 years of age or older, pass a background check and have their own transporation.

If you're not familiar with CASA of Franklin-Hampshire County, you can read more about the program here.

Apply to Volunteer
FOC-Logo-Print-12in_FOCUS

Are you in search of an opportunity to offer your time and expertise to a young person navigating adulthood?

Older person helping youth with homework

Our FOCUS mentors are integral to the success of young adults aging out of the foster system. Whether you are capable of providing general support or special expertise, FOCUS can provide an effective way for these young people to benefit from your generosity and commitment. You can read more about the program here.

FOCUS volunteers must be 25 years of age or older and pass a background check.

Apply to Volunteer
Foster Children Advocacy

"My career in children’s services at DCF and at nonprofits inspired me to give voice to the challenges faced by children in the child welfare system. As an advocacy volunteer with The Children’s Union, I have connected with legislative policy-makers, media, academics, child advocates and the community to bring about change.

Through creating more awareness, our team of knowledgeable and passionate volunteers ensure that the public is not kept in the dark. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the cause!"

– Denise K. Maguire