Volunteer

Making a Difference, One Act of Kindess at a Time

YMCA Volunteers are a force for good in local communities and beyond. They positively impact lives in significant and lasting ways and are essential to fulfilling the Y’s purpose to strengthen communities. Through our integrated areas of focus—Healthy Living, Youth Development, and Social Impact—volunteers contribute to a holistic approach that promotes physical health, nurtures young minds, and addresses systemic barriers. Our vision is a community where everyone has a transformative Y experience, fostered by the dedication of volunteers who meet immediate needs and drive long-term social change. With a focus on being people-centered and community-oriented, volunteering at the YMCA is a pathway to personal growth and civic engagement, empowering both individuals and communities to thrive together by welcoming people of all backgrounds and dimensions of diversity.

Close up of group of happy community service volunteers stacking hands together outdoors in street

Ways You Can Volunteer

Frequently Asked Questions

The YMCA of East Valley is responsible for protecting the communities we serve. For this reason, every volunteer candidate is required to fill out an application, present a legal form of photo identification, and undergo a comprehensive background check that includes fingerprinting. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.

The YMCA of East Valley is responsible for protecting the communities we serve. For this reason, every volunteer candidate is required to fill out an application, present a legal form of photo identification, and undergo a comprehensive background check that includes fingerprinting. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.

The YMCA of East Valley is responsible for protecting the communities we serve. For this reason, every volunteer candidate is required to fill out an application, present a legal form of photo identification, and undergo a comprehensive background check that includes fingerprinting. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.

We offer a variety of opportunities for different skillsets, but some positions may call for annual education requirements. We’ll help you find an opportunity that fits your skills and interests and, if needed, we can help provide access to training.

If you can no longer volunteer with us, please let your supervisor know as soon as possible. If you’re not enjoying what you’re currently doing, please talk with your supervisor about other available roles.

Clothing should be as tidy and clean as possible, and shoes should be closed-toe. Volunteer shirts will be distributed by your supervisor, but some events may require you to wear additional apparel such as parking vests. You can dress up for special events but extremely inappropriate and/or graphic clothing is prohibited.

Our organization follows a standard procedure to ensure the safety and security of our volunteers. Here's an overview of the process:

 

  1. Applicants submit a volunteer application, providing their personal information and department preference.
  2. The HR department contacts applicants via phone to confirm their interest, discuss availability, and schedule a fingerprinting appointment.
  3. Applicants attend the scheduled appointment to provide their fingerprints for background checks.
  4. HR conducts background checks, including criminal record and reference checks.
  5. Once clearance is received, HR contacts the manager of the preferred department.
  6. The manager reviews the applicant's details and determines their suitability for the team.
  7. If approved, the manager contacts the volunteer to discuss their role and next steps for onboarding.

 

By following this process, we ensure that volunteers are thoroughly screened and placed in suitable departments, maintaining the safety and effectiveness of our volunteer program.

No, you do not need to be a member to volunteer at a family center.

No, the YMCA of East Valley doesn’t offer any volunteer opportunities for those looking to complete community service hours as part of a sentence or legal requirement.

Yes, you can! We offer several single day events throughout the year, including the Home Tour and Highland Y Run. When filling out your volunteer application, please make sure to indicate your interest in participating in single day events.

Change Someone's Tomorrow...Today

The YMCA of the East Valley relies on you!