The Riverdale Y is a robust, community engaging nonprofit that values its volunteers. Hundreds of community members share their talents with us, contributing thousands of hours of time.
Volunteers work alongside staff to embody our universally held values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. They strengthen our community by being determined, nurturing, genuine, hopeful, and welcoming. We are truly honored and grateful for each of our volunteers.
All Are Welcome!
No matter your age, background, or experience, everyone is welcome here. Young enthusiasts (ages 6 to 13) are invited to join with a guardian. Volunteers ages 14-17 can participate with parental consent, and those over 18 are, of course, welcome as well. Volunteers can opt for drop-in events or become committed impact makers. Whether you’re an individual or part of a group, explore personalized volunteering opportunities that make a positive impact on our community.
Volunteer Benefits
- Resume Building: Boost your resume with valuable volunteer experience.
- Making Friends: Connect and build lasting friendships with like-minded individuals.
- Learning New Skills: Grow personally and professionally by acquiring new skills.
- Proof of Community Service Hours: Get official documentation for your community service hours.
- Recognition and Awards: Clock in your hours for a chance at recognition! Awards, certificates, and acknowledgments are up for grabs based on your dedicated time. Young volunteers up to 18 might snag the prestigious Young Leadership Award, and those over 18 are considered for the Community Service Award.
On-Going Opportunities
Older Adult Dining Room Support: 10am to 1pm, dates to be discussed at Riverdale Y’s New Beginning Older Adult Center – Spend at least 6 hours a week serving lunch to our older adult community. Email anyashina@riverdaley.org for details.
Sunday Market Cooking Demo Support: We are looking for experienced cooks with a food handling certificate to do cooking demos at the Sunday Market. Email sundaymarket@riverdaley.org for more details.
Utensil Set Rolling: Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9am – 10am at Riverdale Y’s New Beginning Older Adult Center – Join our amazing volunteers to roll utensil sets for the dining room
Lunch & Learn Meal Support: 11am to 1pm, Tuesdays & Fridays at the AmPark NORC. Volunteer to serve lunch to older adults at the Amalgamated. Email ssilverman@riverdaley.org for details
Volunteer opportunities this month:
January 1 – January 19 – Winter Wear Clothing Drive – please bring new or gently used winter wear clothing, including sweaters, hats, scarves, new socks and new underwear. Items will be sorted on January 20 morning, and will be distributed the following week.
January 15 – Riverdale Y Food Pantry- 12:30PM – 3:00PM – Distribute over 5,000 lbs of food to those in need.
January 19 – Blood Drive – 9AM – 4PM – Give the gift of life or help at the blood drive by registering donors. Contact Alexandra for details.
January 20 – MLK Day of Service
Facilitation Roles: Lead MLK related discussion with various community groups during the day; partner with kids to sell muffins; give away T-shirts and assist with check ins during the day. Register with Alexandra by January 10.
Hands-On Roles: Pack meals with Rise Against Hunger or assemble hygiene kits. Registration is open until January 20, space permitting.
January 21 – Birthday Party 9:30AM – 1:30PM Set up, serve, and clean up after the celebration lunch in our older adult center.
January 22 – AmPark NORC Food Pantry – 11:00 AM – 2:PM – Distribute over 5,000 lbs of food to those in need.
January 31 – Intergenerational Discussion – 10:00AM – 11:15 AM– Please join me in welcoming Winston Prep as we begin our second of four workshops that bring generations together. Our theme this year centers on helping young adults develop key social and emotional skills by learning how to better understand and advocate for older adults. On this day, we discuss the power of the community.
Sunday Market: Every Sunday – Join us as we engage with our community, support local vendors and artists, and take care of those in need.
Contact Alexandra Nyashina at anyashina@riverdaley.org to sign up for these volunteer opportunities