Volunteer at Youth Challenge

Teen pulling a piece of string as a girl in a wheelchair cuts it with scissors

Current Volunteers

Teen and girl using a bottle on a piece of paper doing crafts

New Volunteers

YC teen volunteers (ages 12–18) team up with young people who have physical disabilities to play sports, try new activities, and grow together.

Teens both sitting at a desk doing crafts

Volunteer Responsibilities and What to Expect

As a volunteer, you’ll be paired one-on-one or in a small group with a participant. During each program, you’ll build a friendship with your partner, offer encouragement, and help them adapt to activities as needed. Some participants need hands-on support while others are more independent, but everyone’s here to make friends and share plenty of laughs.

Programs are typically held after school (4:00–5:30 PM). In the summer, programs run during the day, typically from mid-morning to afternoon. You can choose from dozens of programs that fit your schedule.

Here's What We Expect of You:

Show Up On Time

Limit Distractions

Be Prepared for the Activity

Follow Instructions from YC Staff

Be A Role Model

Help Clean Up

Arrange Your Own Transportation

Stay With Your Partner Until They’re on the Van

Where We Volunteer

Youth Challenge is based in Westlake, Ohio, with programs offered across Northeast Ohio.

We host activities in schools, community centers, and local parks—often on both the East Side and in or near Lorain County. When the weather’s nice, you’ll find us outside!

A teen leaning over helping a kid with a craft at on a green table

Learn How to Volunteer with Kids with Disabilities

All first-time volunteers must attend a one-time training session led by YC staff. You’ll gain perspective on life with a disability, learn how to assist participants, understand adaptive activities, experience the YC culture, and get prepped for a safe and awesome experience.

We offer both virtual and in-person training. After completing the training, new volunteers will be placed on our mailing list to receive seasonal news and program sign-up info season after season.

New Volunteer Training

At first, I thought I was showing up to do “work” for the community, but I quickly realized that most of what I was doing didn’t feel like work at all. Rather, it was fun, rewarding, and something to look forward to. The irony is that while I came to YC hoping to give, I’ve ended up receiving far more than I could ever contribute. Whether I’m helping with my favorite physical fitness events or just participating in group activities that promote joy and wellness, I’ve grown because of YC’s example of inclusion, celebration, and empowerment.

- Parker Crowley, Volunteer