
Through the Friendship Foundation volunteer program, remarkable bonds are forged between children with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their new friends.
In addition to making an impact on a child, volunteers will see changes in themselves, becoming more fulfilled, self-confident, and empowered. Our volunteer program began in 2005 with 22 members. Today, more than 1,500 dedicated individuals participate in this wonderful program.
1. Using the link below, register and complete a profile on DaySmart (formerly called Dash).
2. Give us 24 hours to review your profile
3. You will receive an email from Friendship Foundation letting you know that you can now sign up for programs.
Few bonds in life are more influential than those between a young person and a caring older adult. The Bridges Program serves to bring together senior volunteers in the community to engage with our young adults with special needs. We want seniors to share their knowledge and life experiences with our young adults. Through fun social activities like Bingo and Game Nights, we hope to bring together two generations to connect and build friendships.
If you are interested in volunteering please fill out the registration form by clicking the link below.
We love seeing our young volunteers excel which is why we created programs specially designed for volunteers that encourage growth and leadership. We provide useful tools, skills, and information about working with the special needs population so our volunteers feel confident and prepared when they show up to their first program. Our volunteers are an integral part of our model and it is with their dedication that we are able to accomplish so much.
Volunteers at our Evening of Recognition 2022
Each May, we host an awards ceremony called Evening of Recognition where volunteers are celebrated for their time spent with the Friendship Foundation. Besides the awards listed below, we also give special recognition to outstanding Friendship School Clubs and recognize the leaders of the clubs. Volunteers are a gift to our program and we are grateful for their generosity.
The SKECHERS Foundation provides college scholarships to high school seniors who have also committed a considerable amount of volunteer time to the Friendship Foundation. A recommendation letter from the Director of the Friendship Foundation is required. Click below for more information.