Frequently Asked Questions!

Q: I want to volunteer, but I don’t know where to start.

A: The most important thing to do before volunteering is to consider yourself. Two important questions you should ask yourself are “what are your interests” and “do you have any skills”. Answering these questions can help identify the type of nonprofit agency you would be happiest working for and supporting. For example if you are a musician and have an interest in working with children, Heartsong Inc, a nonprofit that provides free music lessons for children would be a perfect match for you. Finding the best role for yourself requires a bit of creativity and introspection. If you need help, you can always call (914) 948-4452 for one-on-one help!

 

Q: I found a nonprofit that works with people my age! Now what?

A: If you found a nonprofit through the Youth Volunteer Guidebook that you want to work with, follow the link in the description to see what active opportunities that nonprofit has listed on Volunteer New York!’s website (volunteernewyork.org). The next step is to express interest in one of their active opportunities or to reach out to them to let them know you are interested in volunteering with them.

 

Q: I want to volunteer but I’m too young.

A: Most nonprofit agencies are willing to accept volunteers who are chaperoned by an adult. If you are under an agency’s age requirements see if you can pair up with an adult or parent to serve.

 

Q: I want to volunteer but I cannot make it to an agency when they are open or I cannot find a way to travel to the agency.

A: Virtual volunteerism is one way a volunteer can get around a challenge with timing or travel. This refers to when a volunteer adopts a project that can be done from home. Virtual projects include conducting research, helping with social media campaigns or desktop publishing. This type of volunteerism requires a lot of trust but if done properly you can make a huge impact in your community without leaving your home. If there’s a nonprofit you really want to work with, don’t be afraid to ask if there’s any type of research or support you can do from home!

 

Q: I’m having problems with your website or app.

A: Technical problems can be directed to our staff at volunteer@volunteernewyork.org or call us at (914) 948-4452.

 

Q: The nonprofit I want to volunteer with never called me.

A: Many volunteer coordinators are responsible for multiple programs on top of overseeing the volunteers at their agency. Not being called back is not a sign of disinterest. Sometimes you need to be persistent in order to start a dialogue. You also might be reaching out to a staff member who is no longer with that agency. If you don’t get a call back, try calling the agency’s general number and asking for their volunteer coordinator. 

 

Q: The nonprofit organization that I want to work for does not have an open volunteer job. Can I still call them? 

A: Yes you can. Some nonprofit agencies are willing to develop a role around your skills and interests. However, before you reach out directly to the agency make sure you know your goals and why you chose that agency in particular. 

 

Q: I want to volunteer during the holidays but all of the agencies I have called are full. What can I do? 

A: The holidays (especially near Thanksgiving) can be a very difficult time to find volunteer opportunities. Many nonprofit agencies are closed during the holidays and those that have projects running usually have their programs filled with volunteers way in advance. If you can lend a few hours you should consider organizing a material or food drive in your community. In early November you can also check volunteernewyork.org/holiday to find local holiday opportunities and plan ahead!

 

Q: How can I have my program added to the guidebook?

A: The Youth Volunteer Guidebook is open to all of our member agencies that work in the counties we serve and who are willing to work with volunteers under 18 years old. All programs must be a registered nonprofit agency.  Please contact us at 914-227-9301.