The Importance of Volunteers

Since 1835, volunteers have been an integral part of Families First, helping us grow from a small society of “friendly neighbors,” to an organization that serves children and families in six counties across Central Indiana.

Building strong, healthy, capable families requires the support of community members, like you.  Families First’s volunteers – like the individuals, parents and children we serve – come from all backgrounds, professions, and family structures.  However, our goal is the same, to stand up for families and create a positive difference in our community.

And, making that positive difference doesn’t take a lot of time!

Become a Volunteer

 

Here are the quick and easy steps to become a Families First Volunteer


Note: Families First performs a complete background check (including driving record and criminal history), as well as a Child Protective Services check on all direct service volunteers. Background check applications are completed at Families First during a volunteer’s orientation. Please allow 3-4 weeks for processing. Please note that volunteers are required to pay $32.50 for background check processing. Volunteers are eligible for a full reimbursement following 20 hours of service, or may waive reimbursement as a donation.

Apply

To get the process started, click on the button above and complete our brief online application form.

Schedule a Volunteer Orientation

Once your application form has been received, our Volunteer Coordinator, Leah Gonzalez, will contact you to schedule an orientation This allows you the opportunity to get to know Families First and share the ways you are eager to get involved.

Find the Right Fit

Finding the best fit for our volunteers is important to us! Following receipt of your background checks, we will work with you to ensure that your time and talents are put to use in the right area. View some of our Individual Volunteer Opportunities.

Attend Additional Training, as appropriate

We want you to be at your best as a volunteer. Depending upon the program that you get involved in, Families First provides additional training opportunities for volunteers. This ensures that you are comfortable and confident in your service, and knowledgeable in your program’s best practices!

If you have questions about our application process or would like more information, please contact us: (317) 634-6341 or email Leah Gonzalez at leahg@familiesfirstindiana.org.

More Ways to Get Involved

Individuals

Schools

Workplaces

Help Women and Children Break Free from Domestic Violence Donate Cell Phones for Victims of Domestic Violence Organize Group Projects for Families in Need
Provide Fun and Educational Activities in Childcare Organize an Activity for Children during Childcare Host a Family Fun Night
Visit with Older Adults Help Families in Need through Landscape Projects, Painting, & Handyman Activities Start an Annual Toy Drive for our Holiday Toy Store
Help Plan Special Events Donate Craft Supplies Provide Healthy Snacks for Children
Share Your Talent – Organize a Workshop for Children or Families Organize a Family Fun Night Share Your Expertise with Client Groups – Financial Management, Legal Education, Healthy Living, the Arts, Employment Services, Etc.
Organize a Family Fun Night for our Client Families Donate Toys for our Holiday Toy Store