PROGRAM VOLUNTEERS

Free Arts’ program volunteers drive our 4 cornerstone programs. Volunteers use art as a bridge to connect with participating children and their families.

To achieve our goal of delivering high-quality programs, all program volunteers are required to go through a thorough screening and training process, beginning with completing a Volunteer Application and attending Volunteer Training.

Some of our programs require volunteers to attend additional training and participate in an interview. Below, you’ll find more information on the time commitment and training required for each of our programs.

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Free Arts Days

  • Program schedule: 3-4 days each month, typically Saturdays from 9am-2pm, location varies

  • Typical duties: Volunteers encourage the children, asking them questions and making sure they have the materials they need. They bring fun energy to the group and provide assistance to the Free Arts Day Program Coordinator.

  • Training requirements: Volunteer Application, Volunteer Training

  • Sign-ups are taken on a “first come, first serve” basis for volunteers.

 

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Weekly Volunteer Program

  • Program schedule: 10-20 consecutive weeks at a Free Arts partner agency for 1 ½  hours each week

  • Typical duties: Volunteers are involved in creating a plan for this program, leading the

    Weekly program around a broad-based theme of their choice. The volunteers’ role is to set the tone and demonstrate consistency week after week, responding to the youth’s interests and creating an environment where the kids can express themselves.

  • Training requirements: Volunteer Application, Volunteer Training, Weekly  Training, one-on-one interview with Free Arts’ Program Coordinator

  • Weekly program placements are made on an individual basis by the Free Arts Program Coordinator.

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Courthouse Programs:

Program schedule:

  • Edelman Children’s Court (Monterey Park)

      • Monday-Friday, Morning Session (9am-Noon)
      • Monday-Thursday, Afternoon Session (Noon-3pm)

  • McCourtney Juvenile Justice Center (Lancaster): Varies as this is a growing program. For more information, click here to contact our Volunteer Coordinator. 

  • Typical duties: Volunteers help prepare a fun environment by setting up projects and interacting with the children with a friendly and inviting disposition. They go around the tables and pay close attention to the children’s needs, bringing kindness and smiles to children who need a little more encouragement.

  • Additional training requirements: Volunteer Application, Volunteer Training, Courthouse Orientation at appropriate site

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Parents and Children Together with Art (PACT) Program

  • Program schedule: Weekly sessions for 8 consecutive weeks at a Free Arts partner agency for 1 ½ - 2 hours each week

  • Typical duties: Working very closely with our Program Coordinator, volunteers prepare to lead a PACT program by choosing from a collection of activities developed by art therapists with the goal of strengthening family bonds in mind. The volunteers’ primary role is to foster a safe, warm environment where family members can connect and communicate with one another. They are in tune with the families’ interests and actively facilitate a sharing time at the end of each session.

  • Training requirements: Volunteer Application, Volunteer Training, one-on-one interview with Free Arts’ Program Coordinator

  • PACT program placements are made on an individual basis by the Free Arts Program Coordinator.