Volunteer Opportunities

Northwood Children’s Services offers many unique opportunities to make a difference in a child’s life. Our volunteers can contribute in a variety of ways.

All Northwood Children’s Services volunteers must meet age requirements, submit a completed application, pass a criminal background check, and participate in a volunteer orientation.

Mentor

Time commitment: 1-2 hours per week
Requirements: Must be 21 or older*, have an interest in at-risk youth, pass a complete background check, maintain appropriate boundaries with the children, commit to consistent visits, and attend volunteer orientation.
Description: Provide one-on-one mentoring sessions weekly or biweekly to a Northwood youth ages 6 – 17. Sessions may include activities such reading, taking a walk, playing games, cooking, doing craft projects, etc.

Tutor

Time commitment: 30-60 minutes per week
Requirements: Must be 21 or older*, have an interest in at-risk youth, pass a complete background check, have previous tutoring or teaching experience, maintain appropriate boundaries with the children, commit to consistent visits, attend volunteer orientation.
Description: Many of Northwood’s youth have struggled in traditional academic settings: tutors provide one-one-instruction and support. Tutors may work with students in a classroom setting or help with homework out of school hours.

*Executive approval of an individual under age 21

To inquire about becoming a mentor or tutor, please contact:

Stephen Kaarbo
Northwood Children’s Services
714 W. College Street
Duluth, MN 55812
218-728-7171
skaarbo@northwoodchildren.org

Special Events Volunteer

Time commitment: As needed, hours depend on the event and task assignment
Requirements: Must be 18 or older, pass a background check.
Description: Northwood has many special events throughout the year, ranging from fundraising events in the larger community to celebrations for youth and staff. Volunteers will assist with event logistics, such as greeting guests, set up and take down, or entertainment.

To inquire about becoming a special events volunteer, please contact:

Kathleen Wolleat
Marketing & Publicity Consultant
Northwood Children’s Services
714 W. College Street
Duluth, MN 55812
218-728-7196
kwolleat@northwoodchildren.org