VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Volunteers are an essential part of our programs. The bonds that volunteers form with Dreamers can last a lifetime. We welcome anyone who is willing to share their skills, talents, and most importantly, their time with our Dreamers. The following are some of the ways you can help. Please reach out to the individual email contact associated with your interest or complete the form at the bottom of this page and staff from IHDF-NY will reach out to you to explore the possibilities. We are excited to hear from you!
“I Have A Dream” – NY East Harlem
@ PS 7 160 E 120th Street, Manhattan
Contact: Irene Lee, Volunteer Coordinator at ilee@ihaveadreamny.org
Opportunity: Become a Literacy/Math Tutor, Become a Test Preparation Tutor
We are looking for experienced teachers to prepare 5th-8th graders for their NYS tests, and to support Dreamers who struggle academically through one-on-one tutoring or in pairs during the after school program. Academic enrichment activities will help Dreamers master their foundational skills.
Time Commitment: At least one hour a week, to start immediately, with a commitment to one semester and ideally for the year. After school hours are from 2:30-5:30pm.
Opportunity: Become a Mentor to a Dreamer
We are seeking for mentors for our 5th-8th grade Dreamers. Our mentoring program utilizes a one-to-one, site-based model, meaning that mentors and mentees meet in a supervised environment at a set time and location and are matched one-to-one for the academic year. The focus of our program is to match youth with trained adult mentors who can guide them in developing better self-esteem and making positive life choices. An application, training and criminal background check, all facilitated by Mentoring USA (MUSA), will be required.
Time Commitment: Biweekly from 3:15pm-5:15pm at PS 7.
College Success Programming
Central Office: 322 8th Avenue, New York, NY
Contact: Karlisle Honore, Director of College Success at khonore@ihaveadreamny.org
Opportunity: Subject Tutor
We are seeking tutors who have a grasp on college-level subjects, ranging from math to psychology, to work with our first and second year college students.
Time Commitment: Flexible Days/Times; Minimum 1.5 hours per week.
Opportunity: Scholarship Search Assistant
We are in need of dedicated volunteers to assist us in researching relevant scholarship opportunities for our current and prospective college students.
Time Commitment: Flexible Days/Times; As needed.
Career Readiness and the Work Is Success Internship Program
Central Office: 322 8th Avenue, New York, NY
Contact: Sierra Spechler, Manager of Career Programs at sspechler@ihaveadreamny.org
Opportunity: Internship Placement
The Work Is Success Internship Program (WISIP) facilitates the placement of Dreamer Scholars at internship opportunities that are directly correlated with their academic pursuits and career ambitions. The goals of the program are to provide first-hand experience in the workplace, create and expand professional social networks, enhance college resumes, and to expand industry knoledge and explore interests. As part of the competitive application process for admittance to WISIP, Dreamer Scholars must submit a resume and cover letter as well as participate in a first round interview before the applicant is referred to our partner organizations and corporations. Before placement, Dreamer Scholars participate in 5 full days of professional development and after placement there is consistent communication throughout the summer to ensure an effective and productive internship experience for all parties. For more information, please visit our WISIP Portal.
Time Commitment: Host 6-8 week internship (approx 25 hours/week) during Fall, Spring, or Summer
Opportunity: Career Coach
Our revamped Career Coach initiative is focused on connecting working professionals with our Dreamer Scholar's for both informal mentorship opportunities and formal, structured events such as Career Roundtables. At a Career Roundtable, you will be able to share how you entered your field of work and grant insight into your area of expertise with Dreamer Scholar's as they navigate their career path. The possibility exists that events like these will lead to a long-term mentoring relationship.
Time Commitment: Flexible dates.
Opportunity: Host Job-Shadow Day
We are seeking companies and individuals who are willing to host a job-shadow day for Dreamer Scholars to learn more about the employment opportunities in various professional fields. During the day, Dreamer Scholars should be able to observe your individual work, be provided with an independent project, and participate in group meetings. We have found that these experiences are truly eye-opening, educational, and powerful influences as Dreamers form their academic and professional ambitions.
Time Commitment: Flexible Dates. Full 8-hour work-day.
Corporate/Groups
In addition to our valued individual volunteers, we also enjoy working with various groups on projects with the Dreamers including painting murals, gardening, field day activities, chaperoning trips, office visits, job shadow, and internship opportunities.
Want More Information?
Please use the form below to let us know how you'd like to support "I Have A Dream"-NY. We'd love to have you!