Ability Tree

Help make after-school hours fun and safe for kids with disabilities. Volunteers play, help with homework and activities, and build connections from Monday–Thursday, 3:15–5:30 PM.

FAQs

What is After-School Program?

• Our After-School program is similar to any after-school, just designed specifically for children with disabilities (our MVPs). Volunteers spend time engaging with MVPs through games, crafts, homework help, and other enrichment activities. The most important thing is simply being present and forming meaningful connections with MVPs.

When should I volunteer?

• Whenever works best for you! Shifts are Monday–Thursday, 3:15–5:30 PM. Many of our volunteers serve weekly, but we are glad to have you on any basis you choose.

Do I need experience working with kids with disabilities?

• No experience is required! You will learn everything you need to know through our 1 hour volunteer training.

Who will be there to support you?

• Other volunteers, program assistants or room leaders, staff, and a behavioral team!

What should I wear?

• Wear comfortable, casual clothes that are appropriate for being around kids. You’ll be taking your shoes off in the rooms, so easy-to-remove shoes are a plus!

Connections Unlimited (CU) occurs Monday–Friday from 9:00 AM–3:00 PM alongside John Brown University's campus schedule. Volunteers engage with CU students and assist with activities, projects, and community experiences.

FAQs

What is Connections Unlimited?

• This program is designed for young adults with disabilities ages 18–30. Students attend classes at John Brown University, participating in activities that promote independence, social growth, and life skills.

When does the program take place?

• The program runs Monday–Friday from 9:00 AM–3:00 PM during JBU's school year.

What will volunteers do?

• Volunteers support students as they learn social and life skills, complete projects, and participate in activities on campus and in the community. The most important role is being present, supportive, and engaged.

Do I need experience working with adults with disabilities?

• No experience is required! You will attend a 1 hour training, as well as be surrounded by CU staff.

Help create a fun, safe evening for kids while families enjoy a night of rest. Volunteers play games, do activities, watch movies, and build connections with MVPs and their siblings during Parent’s Night Out from 5:00–8:30 PM on select Fridays and Saturdays.

FAQs

What is Parent’s Night Out?

• Parent’s Night Out is a respite evening for families impacted by disability. While parents and caregivers enjoy a night out and some rest, our team and volunteers care for MVPs and their siblings through games, activities, movies, and crafts in a safe, welcoming environment.

When should I volunteer?

• Parent’s Night Out is typically 3 evenings each month. While they generally occur on Friday evenings, some are Saturdays.

Do I need experience working with kids with disabilities?

• You will learn everything you need to know through our 1 hour volunteer training.

Who will be there to support you?

• Other volunteers, program assistants or, staff, and will be on site throughout the evening. Our behavior team is always either on site or on-call within 10 minutes away.

What should I wear?

• Wear comfortable, casual clothes that are appropriate for being around kids. You’ll be active, sitting on the floor, and taking your shoes off in the rooms, so easy-to-remove shoes are recommended.

Join us as a volunteer at our community events, including our 5K, annual fundraisers, volunteer recruitment events, and local booths. Volunteers help with setup, registration, greeting guests, and general event support to make each occasion run smoothly. No training or background check is required, making this perfect for those who want to contribute on a flexible, one-time basis.

We love welcoming groups to volunteer with us! Whether it’s a classroom, scout troop, or corporate team, there are so many ways to make an impact.

We've had groups:

• Create sensory bins or activity kits

• Organize and inventory supplies or help deep-clean space

• Support setup or prep for community events, fundraisers, or our 5K

• Lead a hands-on activity, craft, or workshop

If your group has a different idea, just submit an application! We’ll be glad to talk it through. Group volunteering is a fun way to bond, give back, and have an impact in the lives of the kids and families we serve.

Support behind the scenes by helping with a variety of administrative tasks!

Volunteers may assist with organizing files, labeling materials, data entry, preparing supplies for programs or events, and other office-based projects. These opportunities are less frequent than direct service roles.