Volunteer Opportunities

Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer at Horizons Greater Washington! We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers and the impact they have on our students, operations, and success.

Each year, Horizons seeks individuals 15 and older who are interested in volunteering with our 5-week Summer Program. Volunteers are absolutely crucial to the success of our program. Horizons relies on our volunteers to help ensure the program runs smoothly and to set the tone for our learning environment. We want all students feel seen, cared for, and included. This involves bringing enthusiasm and joy throughout the program. 

Our summer program will run from June 27 - August 1, 2025. All volunteers are asked to commit to volunteering for at least two weeks during the program.

Summer 2025 opportunities will go live during the first week of February 2025. Please check back then!

DOs for Classroom Volunteers

Greet Students Warmly

Welcome Horizons students as they get off the bus with a friendly smile.

Meal Management

Pick up and distribute breakfast.

Count extra full breakfasts and report the number to the Site Director/Program Assistant

Attendance Duties 

Request attendance sheets from the Program Assistant, distribute them, and pick them up after class.

Highlight absences and count attendance totals.

Lunch Distribution

Pick up lunch delivery and sort lunches into grades.

Deliver lunches to the classrooms.

Snack Time

Distribute snacks to students.

End-of-Day Assistance

Help younger students pack up for the day.

Support Teachers & Program Support Staff 

At recess

In the classrooms 

During STEAM and Art classes

Administrative Tasks

Organize forms and office supplies.

Assist with the literacy testing program.

Help teachers with projects, setting up, and cleaning up.

Flexibility

Attend to various tasks and responsibilities as assigned by the program office or other Horizons staff.

Eight GREAT ways to be a SUPERSTAR volunteer

1. Stay engaged with the students

Don’t use your phone or other electronic devices while supervising students or performing duties.

2. Respect Boundaries

Don’t engage in personal conversations with students outside of the volunteer activities.

Maintain professional boundaries at all times.

3. Be Punctual

Don’t arrive late or leave early without informing the site director.

4. Stay Alert

Don’t ignore safety protocols or instructions given by the Horizons staff.

5. Respect Confidentiality

Don’t share personal information about students or staff.

6. Communicate 

Please let the Site Director know as soon as you know if you will be absent.

7. Ask for Clarity

Ask a staff member for clarification if you are unsure about a task.

8. Stay Positive

Your enthusiasm and positive attitude make a big difference.