Volunteering isn’t just about lending a hand—it’s about transforming lives. At AcademySTAY, every hour you contribute helps foster youth gain the skills, confidence, and support they need to transition successfully into independent adulthood. Whether you’re mentoring a student, organizing a community event, or offering administrative support, your unique talents can spark lasting change.
Meet Rachel Foley
Rachel Foley is one of the inspiring leaders behind AcademySTAY’s volunteer initiatives. With years of experience in community engagement, Rachel works directly with volunteers, guiding them to become a vital part of the support system for transitional-aged foster youth. In her own words, she believes that every volunteer brings a “unique strength that not only enriches the lives of the youth but also transforms the community.” Her insights underscore the genuine connection between community involvement and the success of our programs.
“Our volunteers do more than offer support—they build bridges of hope and opportunity that empower young people to envision a brighter future.” --Jenny Davidson, Founder and CEO of AcademySTAY
Volunteer Opportunities & Roles
At AcademySTAY, there’s a wide variety of roles designed to fit every interest and skill set:
Mentoring & Tutoring: Guide students through academic challenges, offer career advice, or simply be a supportive presence.
Event Support: Volunteer to drive students to and from school events, help set up or take down for our resource fair in May or sponsor a game night by planning activities and providing snacks.
Life Skills & Workshops: Lead classes in cooking, knitting, painting, or other hobbies that help students build practical skills.
Health & Safety & Relationship Classes: Assist in facilitating sessions that educate youth on making healthy choices.
Administrative Assistance: Help organize our clothing and food closets, assist Rachel with stamping envelopes, and manage other key office tasks.
Drop-Off & Donation Coordination: Even if you’re not available for ongoing work, dropping off essential items can make a big difference.
Every role is an opportunity to directly impact the lives of foster youth, cultivating not only academic success but also personal growth and community connection.
The Impact of Giving Time
The true value of volunteering with AcademySTAY is measured in the transformative outcomes for our foster youth. Your commitment can lead to:
Improved Academic Performance: Personalized tutoring and mentoring help students overcome academic challenges.
Increased Confidence: Volunteers empower students to believe in their potential and take on new challenges.
Stronger Community Bonds: Every interaction contributes to a network of support that uplifts both students and volunteers.
Skill Development: Youth gain practical life skills—from cooking to communication—that prepare them for the future.
By sharing your time and expertise, you are directly investing in the next generation’s success and helping to build a more inclusive and supportive community.
Conclusion: You Can Make a Difference
At AcademySTAY, volunteers are the cornerstone of our mission. Your dedication and unique skills are the catalyst for empowering transitional-aged foster youth to achieve their dreams. Remember, even a few hours of your time can ignite a wave of positive change.
Ready to be part of something impactful? Apply now to become a volunteer.
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