At Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington, volunteers help create safe, welcoming spaces where youth can learn, grow, and thrive. Whether you work directly with young people or support our Clubs behind the scenes, your time and talents help build confidence, belonging, and brighter futures.
Every volunteer helps youth develop the skills they need to succeed in school, build healthy relationships, and prepare for the future. Through your support, our Clubs provide life-changing opportunities in four core program areas:
Health & Wellbeing
Character & Leadership
Academic Success
Life & Workforce Readiness
Together, we help young people build skills, confidence, and great futures.
Volunteer Opportunities in Southwest Washington
Community Food Runner
Help support our Clubs by transporting donated food from the Clark County Food Bank to Club locations one to two times per week. Volunteers should have access to an SUV, truck, or other vehicle with enough cargo space to safely transport food donations. This behind-the-scenes role helps ensure our Clubs are stocked with nutritious food for meals, snacks, and family food distributions.
Club Operations Volunteer
Support the daily operations that help our Clubs run smoothly. Volunteers may assist with preparing and serving family-style meals, organizing kitchen and pantry supplies, stocking materials, setting up activities, light cleaning, and other behind-the-scenes projects. Family-style dinners are typically served one to two times per week, though volunteer opportunities are flexible based on Club needs and your availability. Depending on the assignment, volunteers may work behind the scenes or alongside staff to help create a safe, organized, and welcoming Club environment.
Youth Program Volunteer
Work alongside Club staff to create a fun, safe, and engaging environment for youth. Volunteers support daily activities such as games, homework help, arts and crafts, STEM projects, outdoor play, recess, and snack or mealtime while encouraging positive behavior, inclusion, and relationship building. This is a great opportunity for individuals who enjoy working directly with children and making a lasting difference in their lives.
Reading Mentor (School-Year Only)
Help young readers build confidence and strengthen their literacy skills through one-on-one or small-group reading support. Reading Mentors encourage a love of learning by listening, asking questions, celebrating progress, and creating a positive reading experience. No teaching experience is required—just patience, encouragement, and a passion for helping youth succeed.
Guest Speaker (School-Year Only)
Share your career journey, personal experiences, or specialized knowledge through a one-time presentation or hands-on activity. Whether you speak about your profession, hobbies, life skills, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, college, the skilled trades, or another area of expertise, your time can help youth explore new possibilities, connect learning to real-world opportunities, and build confidence in their future.
Special Events Volunteer (Occasional)
Help make Club events memorable by assisting with one-time activities such as family nights, community celebrations, fundraisers, volunteer projects, and seasonal events. Volunteers may help with event setup and cleanup, greeting guests, serving refreshments, leading activities, or providing general event support. This role is perfect for individuals, families, or groups who want to give back but may not be available for an ongoing volunteer commitment.
Volunteer Requirements
To help ensure a safe and supportive environment for all youth, volunteers must:
Be at least 18 years old to volunteer in Elementary Clubs
Be at least 21 years old to volunteer in Teen Clubs
Complete a background check
Complete reference checks
Complete required volunteer training
Attend Volunteer Orientation
Volunteer Types
One-Time Volunteers
Perfect for individuals or groups looking to make an impact without an ongoing commitment.
Guest Speaker (School-Year Only)
Special Events Volunteer (Occasional)
Ongoing Volunteers – With Youth
Build meaningful relationships with youth by volunteering on a regular basis.
Club Operations Volunteer
Youth Program Volunteer
Reading Mentor (School-Year Only)
Ongoing Volunteers – Without Youth
Make an impact behind the scenes by supporting Club operations without direct interaction with youth.
Community Food Runner
Club Operations Volunteer
Volunteer Onboarding Process
We provide a clear, safety-focused onboarding process designed to prepare every volunteer for a successful experience.
1. Apply Online
Submit your volunteer application to get started.
2. Background Check
Complete your background screening through First Advantage after receiving your invitation by email.
3. Reference Checks
We will contact the references listed on your application.
4. Volunteer Training
Complete our required online training covering child abuse prevention, mandated reporting, and grooming prevention.
5. Volunteer Orientation
Learn about our mission, programs, safety expectations, and what to expect as a volunteer.
6. Club Placement
Meet with a Club Director to schedule your first visit and get connected with your volunteer role.
Make a Difference in Southwest Washington
Every hour you volunteer helps create safe, positive spaces where Great Futures Start Here.
Whether you're mentoring youth, preparing meals, transporting food, or supporting a special event, your time makes a lasting impact on young people and our community.
360-217-0064
volunteer@mybgc.org
