Volunteer at the SDCC...Today!

The San Diego Center for Children, established in 1887, is the region's oldest children's nonprofit organization, dedicated to providing comprehensive mental and behavioral health services to children, teens, and their families. Serving over 1,000 individuals daily across multiple locations, the Center offers a continuum of care that includes therapeutic programs, specialized education, and critical life skills development.

Volunteer Opportunities for Youth Aged 15 and Older

The Center welcomes volunteers aged 15 and above to participate in various programs that support children and teens with special needs. These opportunities allow young volunteers to make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience in the field of child development and mental health.

• JoyMakers Program:

  • Role: JoyMakers engage in activities that bring joy and support to the children, teens, and families served by the Center. This includes organizing and participating in events, assisting with campus beautification projects, and supporting various initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of the youth.

  • Activities:

    • Holiday Heroes: Collecting gifts and raising funds to provide toys, games, necessities, and joyful experiences for children and teens during the holiday season.

    • Food Baskets for Families: Assembling baskets of non-perishable food items and grocery store gift cards to alleviate daily stressors for families in need.

    • Campus Beautification Projects: Participating in group projects such as light painting or landscaping to create a welcoming environment for the youth.

Application Process

To become a volunteer, individuals aged 15 and older are encouraged to follow these steps:

1. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator:

   • Warren Johnson, Development Manager

   • Phone: (858) 634-8346

   • Email: [email protected]

2. Complete the Volunteer Application:

   • Express interest in specific programs or activities and provide necessary personal information.

3. Attend Orientation and Training:

   • Participate in an orientation session to learn about the Center's mission, programs, and volunteer expectations.

   • Undergo any required training pertinent to the chosen volunteer role.

4. Background Checks and Clearances:

   • Complete necessary background checks and clearances as mandated by the Center to ensure the safety and well-being of the children served.

Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering at the San Diego Center for Children offers numerous benefits, including:

• Skill Development: Gain experience in child development, mental health, and nonprofit operations.

• Community Engagement: Contribute positively to the local community by supporting vulnerable children and families.

• Personal Growth: Develop empathy, leadership, and communication skills through direct interaction with diverse populations.

Conclusion

The San Diego Center for Children provides a supportive environment for volunteers aged 15 and older to engage in meaningful activities that enhance the lives of children with special needs. By participating in programs like JoyMakers, young volunteers can make a significant impact while gaining valuable experience and personal growth. For more information, click here! To begin the application process, contact Warren Johnson at (858) 634-8346 or [email protected].