Volunteer

“Satisfaction comes when you know you have made an impact on the kids. These children are our futre and if we can in some small way teach them to accept and celebrate the differences in one another, it is worth while. It is a very rewarding experience for all of the puppeteers.”

Sally Townend
Kids on the Block
Volunteer Puppeteer

Learn more about Mary and what it’s like to volunteer with Kids on the Block in our Spotlight on our Volunteers.

Volunteer

Get Involved!

Volunteer Puppeteer

Volunteers are the heart and spirit of Kids on the Block!

Our volunteers (over 70 currently) come from all walks of life - parents, seniors, professionals and students.  All are welcome! 

The greatest need is for puppeteers, but we have volunteer opportunities for just about anyone with a desire to help kids.  Check out how you can use your talents to brighten a child's life.  If you don't find your niche here, contact us with any ideas!

You can make a big difference in many lives!

Become a Puppeteer!

Becoming a Kids on the Block puppeteer is such a great way to help kids. It’s also a lot of fun!

Puppeteers make an invaluable contribution to the community, and can have a powerful influence on children’s lives.

Kids on the Block provides all the training, encouragement, equipment and materials you’ll need to get started.

Rewards include working with a terrific family of dedicated volunteers, developing puppeteering skills and confidence, and, most importantly, the joy of seeing the impact you have on children.

Learn more about becoming a puppeteer, or complete an application form and send it in. We’ll call you to schedule an interview. Download an application here or contact us to find out more.

Help Out in the Office

We would love some help with mailings, filing, data entry and other general office tasks.  A few hours a week makes a big difference in so many ways.  It’s a great way to get to know Kids on the Block’s wonderful volunteers and staff while benefiting your community!

Assist with Events

Like parties and events?  Help plan, host, carry out, or publicize Kids on the Block fundraising events.  There are always many fun opportunities to get involved in Kids on the Block’s largest annual event, Yoshida’s Sand in the City. 

 New this year, friends of Kids on the Block will be hosting house parties to build awareness about the organization and to attract new supporters.  Want to be one of the first to attend or throw a house party for a great cause?  Kids on the Block will provide the how-to's and a speaker to briefly introduce our work.  You provide the location, guests and food (maybe you can find a local restaurant, caterer, or grocery store to donate the refreshments).  The party can be as simple as tea and dessert for a dozen friends or a larger, sit-down dinner - it’s up to you.  Contact us if you’re curious!

Assist with Grant Research and Leads

If you come across a foundation, corporation, or other funder that would be a good match for Kids on the Block’s work, let us know.  Perhaps you have contacts at some of these organizations.  Feel free to introduce us or to send us a quick email about your idea. 

Intern with Us

Looking for a way to earn college credit while gaining new professional skills?  An internship with Kids on the Block may be the perfect way for you to get involved!  We could use your help researching new educational topics, developing teaching materials, planning and carrying out events, and keeping the office running smoothly – or let us know what other interests you have that may be compatible with Kids on the Block’s needs.  Please contact us with questions and ideas.

NEW!  Speaker Series and Other Ways to Spread the Word

Kids on the Block is about to launch a speaker series, with brown bag lunches or after-hours lectures and discussions, on issues our supporters care most about, like healthy eating, preventing abuse, and understanding disabilities.  Are you interested in being a speaker or hosting a session, or do you have a good topic idea?  We’d love to hear your thoughts!  Please contact us now or check back soon for more details. 

Another easy way to help is to tell your friends, neighbors, and colleagues about Kids on the Block’s important work and ask them to become supporters too, or invite them to come with you to a brown bag lecture, house party or other fundraising event!