DC127 Communities for Families Volunteer- Virtual

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The Opportunity: DC127 meets families where they are. Volunteers come alongside parents, walking with them through a much-needed time of support. It is a unique opportunity to form an intentional relationship with a family to provide much-needed social and emotional encouragement to parents who are isolated and overwhelmed. Volunteering for DC127 is a 6-9-month commitment where you meet 1-2 times weekly. In these meetings you are checking in, encouraging them to reach their goals and being present with them through their trials. Volunteering with DC127 is moving beyond transactional encounters towards genuine relationships. Your role is relational in nature. On average our parent volunteer relationships are sustained for more than 5 years.

There is limitless creativity you can bring to this position. Make a lasting impact in your life and in the District today!

Primary Responsibilities:

• Provide emotional and social support to a parent during a 6-9 month timeframe
• Be in contact at least once a week with the assigned parent
• Document volunteer and family check-ins monthly

Volunteer Expectations:

• Compassion- This is a core characteristic of a DC127 volunteer. Demonstrating self-awareness and empathy to build trusted relationships with families.
• Commitment- We ask each volunteer to make a 6-9 month commitment. We encourage you to be proactive when building relationships with families and continue to show up even when the parents fail to reach out. This consistency and commitment makes a positive impact in the lives of our families. The expectation is to touch base at least once a week if not more. This can be a phone call, text, FaceTime call-- be creative!
• Connection- All DC127 programs are temporarily virtual. Whether you choose FaceTime, Zoom or Google Meet, you will connect with DC127 parents weekly to check-in and provide emotional encouragement and support. DC127 volunteers are the lifeline of our program. Volunteer and parent relationships often blossom into lifelong friendships.
• Collaboration- DC127 staff works with every volunteer and parent. Your role is essential to our team. We ask you to communicate by submitting a monthly report that highlights your progress. We offer trauma informed training throughout the year to guide you through complex issues. Together, DC127 and the volunteer act as the support team to the family.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to inspire and encourage others
• Successful completion of background checks (FBI & Child Protection Register)
• Enjoys working as part of a committed team

• Ability to serve families with empathy and solidarity

Desired Qualifications:

• Bilingual (Spanish & English)
• Experience providing support to families in the foster care system

• Knowledge of child welfare systems
• Experience working with children and families

Ready to make an impact in Washington, D.C. and be blessed?