Volunteer

We are always looking for volunteers. Anyone interested in being a part of the fun should call 847-473-3483.  We will set up a tour, give you a chance to meet our trainees and discuss how your areas of expertise would align with our opportunities.

2010 Volunteer of the Year

Kathy Eber (left) has been working with YBLC since 2008. She has written our last two annual reports and is a member of our PR and Marketing Committee.

On-going Volunteer Opportunities:

• Office/administrative: We have needs for data entry, fundraising material preparation, and newsletter writing and production. Some of our administrative volunteers are here every week. Others come in to help as we need them.
• Job Shadowing Opportunities: In the spring, we place each of our trainees in a job shadowing opportunity. This involves a trainee coming to your location and working side by side with you for a day. The trainee’s “boss for the day” then fills out a one-page evaluation of the trainee’s performance.
• Internships: In April and May, we like to place trainees who have received their GED or High School diploma into 3-4 week internships. YBLC pays the student stipend during the internship. Trainees work Monday – Thursday at their internship. Friday they return to YBLC to check in and discuss their experiences.
• Tutors: Because trainees are at different education levels when they enter the program, it is difficult for teachers to tailor lessons that work for all students.  Tutors will work one-on-one or with small groups of trainees on a variety of subjects including: Math, Reading, Writing, Social Studies and Science.  Tutors work with trainees Monday – Thursday 9am-2pm.  A basic understanding of high school level education is the only requirement.

Speaking and Other Opportunities

• Life Skills Guest Speakers: Our trainees are learning how to manage their lives more effectively through weekly life skills group sessions and a series of guest speakers. Speaking topics include anger management, conflict resolution, negotiation skills, relationships, parenting, communication skills, managing money, etc.
• Leadership and Citizenship Speakers: Our trainees are often exploring the worlds of leadership and citizenship for the first time. Many local politicians personally share valuable insights with our trainees.  We welcome other speakers on leadership and citizenship.
• Job Readiness Guest Speakers: Help our trainees learn how to get a job and how to keep it. Sample topics include: dress for success, communications skills, how to impress your boss, job research techniques, overcoming gaps on your resume, resume writing, interviewing skills and mock interviewing.
• Career Speakers: Trainees are interested in exploring different career options. We provide Career Days once a quarter where they can learn about different careers. Key interest areas: medical, administrative, construction and maintenance.
• Construction Theory and Practice: Our trainees are learning carpentry skills from our construction team while building affordable homes in North Chicago. Speakers help augment our construction training.  Any site visit/hands-on opportunities you can provide are welcome. Topics include: safety, quality, architectural concepts, blue print reading, plumbing, wiring, electrical application, masonry, rehabilitation and commercial building practices.