Make An Impact

‍

What Volunteers Do:
​Volunteers spend one day a week (2.5 hours) working with our students over the course of a program semester (Fall, Spring, or Summer). With guidance from their Site Coordinator, volunteers:

‍

• Help students with reading & homework
• Support educational games & activities
• Offer students one-on-one mentorship

‍What Volunteers Gain:

‍Our volunteers directly support students experiencing homelessness, making a tremendous impact in the community while also gaining:

‍

• Service-learning course credit
• Training on trauma-informed care
• Knowledge of social emotional learning
• Leadership skills and experience

‍

Volunteer recruitment has closed for Spring 2026, but be on the lookout for opportunities in the 2026-27 school year! If you have any questions, contact our volunteer team:

‍

AmeriCorps is a government funded program focused on strengthening communities through direct and indirect service. As a State & National Corps Member with HOPES, you'll have the opportunity to engage in direct service at one of our sites!

‍

Corps Members are part of a designated team where they directly support students in our academic after-school programs. Benefits for these positions include a stipend and transportation allowance as well as eligibility for SNAP, healthcare and childcare benefits.

‍

We are no longer recruiting for Spring 2026, but you can keep an eye out for our Summer 2026 full-time application. In the meantime, if you have questions on AmeriCorps service, reach out to our Volunteer Manager:

‍

We proudly partner with universities and schools of social work across the city to provide enriching internship placements for BSW and MSW students.‍

‍

What We Offer:

‍

• Supervision by LCSW-trained staff who provide weekly and group supervision (aligned with CSWE standards)
• Hands-on experience working with children and families experiencing homelessness
• An opportunity to engage in program development, trauma-informed care, and community outreach
• A supportive, mission-driven environment where interns are valued as part of the team

‍

Whether you're focused on school social work or macro-level advocacy, we can offer a chance to engage in practical learning and hands-on, direct service. Contact Jen Harden-Finn for more information (jen@chicagohopesforkids.org):

‍

‍

Get involved and make a difference!Chicago HOPES for Kids is always welcoming volunteers who want to support children experiencing homelessness. Your time and dedication can have a lasting impact on their educational journey. For corporations looking to give back, we offer opportunities to organize one-day volunteer events that provide hands-on support. These events are a great way to engage your team while making a meaningful contribution to the community. We encourage corporate groups to collaborate with our trusted partners:

‍

The HOPES Associate Board is a team of young professionals who support Chicago HOPES for Kids by planning fundraising events and public awareness campaigns throughout the year. We are now accepting applicants:

‍