Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering with Cougs for Kids is more than just an opportunity—it’s a chance to make a lasting impact in the lives of young people. This inspiring program connects WSU alumni with current students to mentor marginalized youth, offering guidance in leadership skills and community service. Through a unique intergenerational mentorship model, participants help break down barriers to education and introduce youth to enriching STEM and sports activities. Our all-volunteer team, part of Believe in Me, is seeking passionate individuals to fill key roles such as Summer Camp Director and Community Service Projects Director. Join us in this empowering movement and become a vital part of shaping a brighter future for our community.

Impact of Volunteering with Cougs

Volunteering with Cougs for Kids creates a ripple effect of positive change in our community. This section explores how our program empowers youth, builds leadership skills, and fosters community engagement.

Empowering Youth Through Mentorship

Mentorship is a powerful tool for youth empowerment. Through Cougs for Kids, we connect WSU alumni and current students with local youth, creating meaningful relationships that inspire growth and confidence.

Our intergenerational mentorship model provides young people with diverse perspectives and experiences. This approach helps mentees develop a broader worldview and envision new possibilities for their futures.

By offering guidance, support, and encouragement, mentors help youth overcome challenges and discover their potential. This empowerment leads to increased self-esteem, improved academic performance, and better decision-making skills.

Building Leadership Skills for Youth

Leadership development is a core focus of our program. We believe that every young person has the capacity to lead, and our goal is to nurture those abilities.

Through structured activities and real-world experiences, participants learn essential leadership skills such as:

• Effective communication

• Problem-solving

• Team collaboration

• Decision-making

• Public speaking

These skills not only prepare youth for future leadership roles but also enhance their personal and academic lives. As they practice leadership, young people gain confidence and become more engaged in their communities.

Engaging in Community Service

Community service is a cornerstone of our program, teaching youth the value of giving back and making a difference. By participating in service projects, young people develop a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement.

Our community service initiatives cover a wide range of activities, from environmental clean-ups to supporting local food banks. These experiences help youth:

• Develop empathy and compassion

• Gain new perspectives on social issues

• Build practical skills

• Create connections within their community

Through these efforts, we’re not just helping youth today – we’re cultivating the community leaders of tomorrow.

Diverse Volunteer Opportunities

Cougs for Kids offers a variety of ways for WSU alumni and students to get involved. Whether you’re passionate about summer camps, enrichment programs, or advocacy, there’s a role for you in our organization.

Lead as a Summer Camp Volunteer

Summer camps provide an immersive experience for youth to learn, grow, and have fun. As a Summer Camp Director or volunteer, you’ll play a crucial role in creating memorable experiences that shape young lives.

Your responsibilities may include planning activities, ensuring safety, and fostering a positive environment. This role allows you to directly impact youth during a formative time in their lives.

Summer camp volunteers often report personal growth and satisfaction from their experiences. It’s an opportunity to develop your own leadership skills while making a difference in the community.

Direct Enrichment and Service Projects

Enrichment and service projects form the backbone of our year-round programming. As a director in this area, you’ll have the chance to create and implement programs that expand horizons and build skills.

Your role might involve:

1. Developing STEM workshops

2. Organizing sports clinics

3. Planning community service initiatives

4. Coordinating with local organizations for collaborative projects

These projects not only benefit the youth participants but also strengthen community ties and promote a culture of lifelong learning and service.

Advocate for Marginalized Youth

Advocacy is a critical component of our mission to support marginalized youth. In this role, you’ll work to raise awareness about the challenges facing young people and push for positive change.

Your efforts might include:

• Organizing awareness campaigns

• Engaging with local policymakers

• Collaborating with other youth-serving organizations

• Developing educational materials on youth issues

By advocating for marginalized youth, you help create a more equitable and supportive community for all young people.

How to Get Involved

Ready to make a difference? This section outlines the steps you can take to join our community of dedicated volunteers and mentors.

Connect with WSU Alumni Mentorship

WSU Alumni mentorship is a key component of our program. As an alum, you bring valuable life and career experiences that can inspire and guide today’s youth.

To get started, visit the WSU Alumni Association website and explore the mentorship opportunities. You’ll find information on how to sign up, what to expect, and the impact you can make.

Remember, mentorship is a two-way street. Many alumni report that they gain as much from the experience as the youth they mentor, often rediscovering their own passion and purpose.

Join the Intergenerational Mentorship

Our intergenerational mentorship model pairs WSU alumni with current students to mentor youth. This unique approach creates a rich learning environment for all involved.

To join:

1. Review our mentorship guidelines and expectations

2. Complete our online application form

3. Attend a training session to prepare for your role

4. Get matched with a mentee based on interests and goals

This model allows for knowledge sharing across generations, creating a supportive network that benefits mentors and mentees alike.

Schedule a Meeting to Volunteer

Ready to take the next step? We’d love to meet with you to discuss how your skills and interests align with our volunteer opportunities.

During this meeting, we’ll:

• Explore our various volunteer roles

• Discuss your availability and preferences

• Answer any questions you may have

• Guide you through the onboarding process

To schedule a meeting, simply click the “Schedule a Meeting” button below. We’re excited to welcome you to the Cougs for Kids family!

Join us in creating positive change. Your time and dedication can transform lives and strengthen our community. Schedule your meeting today and start your journey with Cougs for Kids!