Volunteering with DSL

volunteer opportunities

Whether it is for tutoring assistance for our Lifelong Learning Programs or additional support for Special Events, DSL has numerous opportunities for volunteers of all ages and experience levels. For more information, contact us at info@downsyndromeoflouisville.org or call the DSL office at 495-5088. To sign up as a volunteer, download (and complete) the Volunteer Registration file below and return to us via fax, mail or email. And thank you for supporting DSL!

volunteer registration.doc

volunteer registration.pdf

Adult Education Program volunteering:

Volunteer Title: Adult Education Tutor

Description: Tutors will offer our young adults the opportunity to further their education beyond high school. Tutoring will occur in one-on-one or small group settings, and the topics will vary depending on the skills of the individual tutor and the needs of our young adults. Possible activities could include learning computer applications in our lab, reading and discussing books, and working on basic math skills.

Time Commitment: One to one and a half hours on weekday mornings, afternoons, or evenings.

Requirements:
• Minimum Age: 18 years old
• Must display sensitivity to individuals with communication and developmental delays
• Attendance of an orientation session prior to service
• Must pass a criminal background check

Creative Educational Enrichment Program volunteering
(K-6th Grade and/or age 5-12 years old)

Volunteer Title: Creative Educational Enrichment Volunteer

Description: This program is targeted at school-age children (K-6th Grade and/or age 5-12 years old).
The sessions are designed to provide educational and fun activities that aid in the development of academic, physical and social skills.

Time Commitment: One Saturday morning each month from 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
The sessions are held at DSL’s office the 2nd Saturday of each month. Summer sessions in July
meet two mornings a week from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Requirements:
• Minimum Age: 16 years old
• Must display sensitivity to individuals with communication and developmental delays
• Attendance of an orientation session prior to service
• Must pass a criminal background check

Early Intervention Program volunteering

Volunteer Title: Early Intervention Volunteer

Description: This program is targeted at toddlers (18 months to 3 years old) and preschoolers (3 to 5 years old). The classes are designed to provide children and parents with learning experiences, techniques, and activities that will stimulate the child’s development specific to the unique needs of children with Down syndrome. Volunteers are primarily responsible for offering sibling care, but also offer support to the Early Intervention Program Director.

Time Commitment: One weekday morning each week for a MINIMUM of three months, with a full-semester commitment preferred. Classes meet on Wednesdays (toddler groups), and Fridays (preschool group) and twice a month on Saturday from 10:a.m..-12 p.m.

Office SupporT volunteering

Volunteers of any age or skill level are welcome to assist in the DSL office. Possible projects can include filing, data entry, or assembling mailings. Please call to learn more about current project availability.

Parent Meetings volunteering

Volunteer Title: Childcare Assistant

Description: Assist Childcare Supervisor in attending to children with Down syndrome (ages ranging from 6 months to 14 years). Read, play, and serve snacks.

Time Commitment: Saturday mornings 2-3 times a year, occasional evenings for 2 and 4 hour sessions

Requirements:
• Minimum Age: 12 years old
• Must display sensitivity to individuals with communication and developmental delays
• Attendance of an orientation session prior to service
• Must pass a criminal background check

Special Events Volunteering

We have numerous special events throughout the year, including our Buddy Walk, Golf Tournament, and Halloween Zoo Party. Please call if you would like to learn more about current Special Event volunteer opportunities. We also welcome volunteers to serve on the following committees:

• Buddy Walk
• Celebrity Auction
• Development/Fundraising
• Maintenance/Gardening

Teen/Young Adult Activities Volunteering

Volunteer Title: Peer Mentor

Description: Participate in group recreational and educational activities with teenagers and young adults who have Down syndrome. Interact as a team member, mentor, leader and friend.

Time Commitment: Usually weekends, some weekday evenings; approximately 2-4 hours per event

Requirements:
• Minimum Age: 14 years old
• Must display sensitivity to individuals with communication and developmental delays
• Attendance of an orientation session prior to service
• Must pass a criminal background check