Become an SOS Illinois Volunteer
Volunteers* play a vital role in the development of our children. By sharing your time and talent, you
can help change a child’s life. We offer flexible volunteer schedules and work closely with you to
provide assistance and education. Are you ready to make an impact?
To learn more about becoming a volunteer at SOS Children’s Villages Illinois, please complete the following Volunteer Application and send an email to kkeene@sosillinois.org with “Volunteer Inquiry” in the subject line or submit an inquiry form through our website here. Please be aware, tutoring is scheduled to resume again in the fall.
*Our volunteers undergo extensive background checks, screenings, and comprehensive training to ensure the well being of our
children. Please know that these processes may delay volunteer start dates.
In the United States more than 450,000
children are in foster care.
Three in four children are separated from their siblings. Most will live in six or more
foster homes. And once the children are out of foster care:
40%
Live on public assistance
46%
Never finish high school
84%
Have a child within 18 months
25%
Are homeless at some time
We are building a better solution,
and need your help.
Volunteer Opportunities
In-Person and Virtual Tutors
Children in foster care are typically at a distinct academic disadvantage resulting from frequent disruptions and placement changes. Tutors play a critical role in providing targeted one-on-one tutoring, giving children the instruction, support, and attention they need to improve academically. All SOS Illinois Tutors must undergo a background check, express sensitivity to the cultural and socioeconomic characteristics of clients and staff, as well as other qualifications. In-Person Tutors must also take a TB test and show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Virtual Tutors are reserved for middle school and high school students only. Virtual Tutors with SOS Illinois must have access to a platform of virtual communication (Zoom, Skype, FaceTime). Note: In-person tutors are more commonly requested by families. Need for virtual tutors is subject to change due to demand.
Please be aware, tutoring is scheduled to resume again in the fall.
As a Tutor, you will agree to:
- Offer one hour a week of tutoring for the duration of the academic year.
- Work to understand each child’s learning style, in order to best assist with homework.
- Build healthy, positive relationships with children.
- Develop and implement new programs or lessons to support the needs of children on their educational path.
- Engage children solely in an educational setting.
- Prepare for each tutoring session prior, in order to maintain a smooth, meaningful interaction.
- Maintain an open relationship with Foster Parents, ensuring that everyone is on the same page in regards to a child’s education.
- Use praise when needed, as well as positive correction.
- Expected to be patient, kind, flexible, and creative.
Holiday Giving Fundraising Volunteer
Help the children at SOS Illinois have a happy holiday. We currently need more volunteers to create teams and fundraise so that our Foster Parents can purchase holiday gifts. In a time where family and friends are separated from each other, this is a wonderful way to come together and make a difference. Learn more here: https://holidaygiving.sosillinois.org/.
Guest Speakers?
Is your company or community organization looking for a guest speaker? Perhaps your group has a community service initiative, or is looking for a project to get people involved in helping those in your community?
If so, we would be happy to schedule a SOS Illinois guest speaker for your next event or meeting. Our presenters are dynamic, warm and passionate about their work and include SOS Illinois staff, volunteers, and members of SOS Children’s Villages Illinois’ Board of Directors.
Help us spread the word about SOS Children’s Villages Illinois as we help SOS Illinois children grow into self-reliant, productive adults. Our speakers are bound to leave an impact on your group. To schedule an SOS Illinois Village Voice Speaker, please Contact Us.