Volunteer
With Us.
Help create safe, supportive spaces where young people feel connected, valued, and never alone.
About Volunteering
Make A Difference Through Connection.
Volunteers are critical for everything we do. Whether you’re supporting teen programs, assisting at community events, sharing professional expertise, or helping behind the scenes, your time and talents help create meaningful experiences for young people and families.
At the Ryan Bartel Foundation, we believe connection is one of the most powerful protective factors for mental wellness. By volunteering, you become part of a community working together to help teens build resilience, belonging, and hope.
We’ll work with you to find opportunities that align with your skills, interests, and availability so you can make a meaningful impact in a way that feels rewarding and sustainable.
Share Your Time & Talents
Ways To Get Involved.
Volunteer opportunities may include:
- Supporting facilitators and participants in youth programs
- Assisting with fundraising and community events
- Sharing professional skills and expertise
- Helping with outreach, communications, or administrative projects
- Contributing content, photography, or creative talents
Caring Adults Who Want to Help
Who We’re Looking For:
We’re looking for volunteers who:
- Are passionate about supporting young people and mental wellness
- Are 18 years or older
- Have relevant experience related to their area of interest
- Are willing to complete a background check
- Can participate in a brief volunteer orientation
- Bring reliability, compassion, and a positive attitude
High school students interested in volunteering are encouraged to explore our FORT Ambassador Program:
Why We Volunteer.
Discover why volunteers choose to share their time, talents, and energy to help young people thrive.
“I decided to get involved because the foundation’s values and commitment to supporting teens align perfectly with my own vision. The teen hangouts are particularly special to me. Seeing the teens smile, socialize, and participate in activities confirms that this organization is making a significant difference. I truly appreciate how the staff and coordinators interact with the teens with such respect. During my time volunteering, I have experienced several special moments. One that particularly stands out was observing the teenagers and participating in the yoga therapy session. Witnessing firsthand how this program positively impacts the moods and attitudes of these young people has been personally satisfying. I hope to continue volunteering with the Ryan Bartel Foundation for a long time to come.”
Norma
“I believe that the teen years should be a time for forming friendships, discovering new things about oneself and the world, and just having fun. The FORT helps this happen! I became a FORT volunteer because I support programs that help young people navigate the challenging times by providing guidance, strategies, and a safe place.”
Jennifer
“I started volunteering at the Ryan Bartel Foundation through a college class but stayed for the incredible impact. Working with teens through the Ryan Bartel Foundation has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Whether it’s getting to watch the teens interact with and offer support to each other at the Teen Hangout or seeing them get excited and involved in the FORT workshops, it is such a fulfilling and meaningful experience. It is so heartwarming to watch and contribute as they grow to become more resilient and positive-minded young adults.”
Nicole
“Volunteering with the Ryan Bartel Foundation has been one of the most meaningful parts of my week. I love watching teens walk in unsure or hesitant and, through simple conversations and shared interests, slowly become more confident, engaged, and willing to be themselves. Being part of creating a space where they feel safe, supported, and genuinely seen is incredibly rewarding. It reminds me that human connection, curiosity, and taking the time to check in with someone can have a profound impact. Seeing a teen move from isolation to a true sense of belonging is something I’ll never take for granted.”
Jason
Finding the Right Fit
What Happens Next?
We’ll start with a conversation to learn more about you, your interests, and how you’d like to contribute. Then take our one-hour, online volunteer training to help you understand our work. From there, we’ll help match you with opportunities where your skills and time can make the greatest impact.
Every volunteer helps strengthen our mission to create communities where young people feel supported, connected, and hopeful.
