Volunteer
Gracewood needs you!
Giving back to others can be one of the most rewarding things you have ever done. We really appreciate our volunteers, who help improve the quality of life for all of our children, single mothers, and families.
Gracewood counts on friends, volunteers, donors, and other supporters to help meet the needs of children and families in care.
Background checks are required for all volunteers interacting with children.
Volunteer questions
Can I bring my children when I volunteer?
Some volunteer activities will be identified as “family friendly,” and children are welcome. Other activities may not be appropriate for children under the age of 16. When in doubt, check with the ministry’s volunteer coordinator. We do not provide child care for volunteers.
Can I work directly with the children in Gracewood’s care?
Yes, we have volunteer opportunities to work with the children living at Gracewood. However, under state law a full background check is required before a volunteer can have contact with children. Even if a background check is completed, we place the interests of the child above all else. Not every child will welcome a volunteer’s efforts, no matter how well-intentioned. Additionally, there often are privacy and confidentiality issues, which will vary from child to child. Thank you for your understanding.
How old do I need to be to volunteer?
There is no age limit, although we ask that teenagers be accompanied by an adult at all times. Opportunities for those age 12 and under are limited to activities identified as “family friendly.”
I don’t see anything that fits the hours I am available or my interests.
The opportunities to volunteer vary widely across our family of ministries, but we can’t always accommodate every person who wishes to volunteer. For instance, there aren’t going to be many opportunities for an individual who wants to read to children or play games with them. Keep in mind that our goal is to give children in our care as much of a normal childhood as possible. We don’t want them to feel like they are on display.
I have a great idea for a volunteer opportunity. Who should I contact?
If you have a special talent you want to share with any of our ministries, we welcome your ideas. Please contact our Volunteer and Recreation Coordinator at kelsey.sellers@gracewood.org or 346-440-1277.
Is volunteering limited to on-campus activities?
No, we have other options for volunteering. We welcome individuals to organize drives that help fulfill items on our needs list. These drives can be coordinated anywhere, at any time, by individuals, church groups, businesses, or organizations.
New? Get connected
Tell us a little about yourself, and our volunteer coordinator will reach out. For more information, email kelsey.sellers@gracewood.org or call 346-440-1277.