Ongoing Opportunities in...
Youth Development/Outreach
A great way to help out today's youth is to just spend time with them. Many young people today lack that connection to someone else (whether it be a mentor, relative, or close friend) to help through the difficult times of growing up. As a college student, being able to directly influence youth about something that you have recently experienced is impactful and another way to make a difference!
Teen Reach
Teen Reach is an after school and summer program that incorporates homework help, mentoring services, life skills enrichment, career exploration, volunteerism opportunities, counseling services (if needed), recreational activities, field trips and snacks. Not only that but, Teen Reach also provides transportation from school to Teen Reach and then home after. Best of all, this program is absolutely free to youth ages 9-17 in the Charleston School District. 845 18th Street Charleston, IL 61920
Volunteers are needed to help in tutoring and mentoring students from ages 9-17 years of age.
For more information:
Contact: CJ Porter
Email: cjp62@yahoo.com
Telephone: 217-549-2106
Website: No Website Available
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Being a "Big Brother" or "Big Sister" is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable things you will ever do. It's simple, too. You and your "Little" can share the kinds of activities you already like to do. This program does require a steady commitment as you are partnered with a "Little." 825 18th St., Charleston, IL.
Volunteers are needed to become a "Big" as well as assist with other programming offered through this agency.
For more information:
Contact:Toq Lawrence
Telephone: 217-348-8741
Website: www.bbbsa.org
Ashmore Mentoring Program
A place where the local kids can go to play, learn, interact with others, and learn to make great choices. Open to all kids in Ashmore and surrounding area. Adult volunteers are here to supervise and lead the future of our small communities. We have structured play and free play. Ashmore Community Center 211 Illinois St.
Ashmore, IL 61912
Volunteers are needed Friday nights from 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. to assist with set up the of gym for the activities of the night, supervisor and assist the participants. Volunteers will also play games/activities such as coloring books, board games, karaoke, basketball, hula hoops, and dodge ball to keep the kids active. Volunteers will also assist with clean up from the activities of the night.
For more information:
Contact: Billie Melton
Telephone: 217-349-8606
Email: tonyandbillie@mchsi.com
Website: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ashmore-Mentoring-Program-AMP/267027276725352
After School Program
After School Program is a volunteer opportunity coordinated through the Student Volunteer Center at Newman Catholic Center. Come help tutor/mentor local children after school two days a week.
Volunteers are needed for tutoring on Mondays - Thursdays from 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
For more information:
Contact: Doris Nordin
Telephone: 217-348-0188
Website: http://www.eiunewman.org/
Mattoon YMCA
The YMCA (Young Men's Christian Association) celebrated its 150-year anniversary in 2001. Our Mattoon YMCA opened its doors in February 1988 after being chartered in 1982. The YMCA has a rich heritage, a Christian mission, and a tradition of values.
Volunteers are needed as youth sport coaches, help coordinate teen programming, fold and label newsletters and assist with special events.
For more information:
Contact: Blake
Telephone: 217-235-YMCA (9622)
Website: www.mattoonymca.org
Charleston Parks and Recreation
Provides skills, instruction and games that allow boys and girls to participate in a team-oriented sport in order to promote sportsmanship, cooperation, self-improvement, and self esteem. Includes many different programs including but not limited to: Charleston Baseball Association, Charleston Girls’ softball Association, Kids Wrestling, and a Dog Activity Club. 520 Jackson Ave, Charleston, IL.
Volunteers are needed as youth sport coaches, help coordinate teen programming, aid in special events, and additional office tasks.
For more information:
Contact: Brian Jones, Director
Telephone: 217-345-6897
Website: http://www.charlestonillinois.org/
ERBA Headstart
ERBA is dedicated to serving the needs of at-risk, low-income individuals and families. The common goal of all programs within the agency is to foster community involvement, professional partnership, and trust between all entities. 311 Seventh St., Charleston, IL.
Volunteers are needed to file, meet individuals, sorting and other office support tasks. Volunteers are also needed for ERBA Headstart where they can teach 3, 4, and 5 year olds.
For more information:
Contact: Jodie Lender
Telephone: 217-345-6625
E-mail: erbamat@consolidated.net
Website: No website available
One Hope United
Provide case management services to children and families affected by methamphetamine use and/or substance abuse in Coles County. These services are aimed at maintaining children safely with their parents or family members. 701 Monroe Ave., Charleston, IL.
Volunteers are needed with office support tasks; they must go through background check.
For more information:
Contact: Ann Pearcy
Telephone: 217-345-6554
Website: http://www.onehopeunited.org/
Girls on the Run
Want to help change lives here in Coles County? Coaches are the heart and sole of our program, and are the amazing individuals who have the chance to impact the lives of girls here in our community! Being a Coach is AMAZING for you and the girls. Girls on the Run is a 10 week program. It starts the week of September 10th and goes through the week of November 12. If you are ready to change lives, then this is the volunteer opportunity for you!
Volunteers would need to donate roughly 5 hours a week on either Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday for 90 minutes each lesson (typically between 3p-5p). Volunteers will also need to be CPR Certified (training is provided if you are not already) as well as attend a coaches training.
For more Information:
Contact: Beth Gillespie
Phone: 217-234-9494
Email:beth.gillespie@girlsontherun.org
Website: http://mattoonymca.org/get-involved/girls-on-the-run-of-east-central-illinois
For more information, please contact Student Community Service at 217-581-3967 or volunteer@eiu.edu.




