On-going Volunteer Opportunities:

• Office/administrative: We have needs for data entry, helping prepare fundraising materials, newsletter writing and preparation. We have some administrative volunteers who are here every week and other who come in to help on an as needed basis.
   
• Job Shadowing Opportunities: In the spring, we will be placing each of our trainees in job shadowing opportunities. 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” is then fills out a one-page evaluation on the trainee’s performance.
   
• Internships: In April and May, we would like to place our trainees who have already received their GED or High School diploma into 3-4 week internships. YBLC pays the student’s stipend during the internship. The trainee would work Monday – Thursday at their internship. Friday they would come back to Youthbuild to check in and discuss their experiences.

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 through guest speakers. Examples of speaking topics include anger management, conflict resolution, negotiation skills, relationships, parenting, communication skills, managing money, etc.
   
• Leadership and Citizenship Speakers: Our trainees are exploring the worlds of leadership and citizenship often for the first time. We have many local politicians come to speak and would 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 try to set up 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 and any site visit/hands-on opportunities would be welcome. Topics include: safety, quality, architectural concepts, blue print reading, plumbing, wiring, electrical application, masonry, rehabilitation and commercial building practices.