CCI Volunteer FAQ

How do I become a volunteer with Chicago Cares?
To become a Chicago Cares volunteer, simply complete our online new volunteer orientation. The whole process takes just minutes! As a Chicago Cares volunteer, you have access to 200 expertly designed and managed projects each month. As a new volunteer, you can even register for Just for Starters, a program we developed especially for new volunteers where you are led by a trained volunteer leader and serve with other volunteers new to Chicago Cares.

How can my group or company volunteer with Chicago Cares?
Chicago Cares creates customized service projects for companies or groups that would like to volunteer. We use our expertise and more than 200 community partners to create a project that is tailored to your needs. For companies, groups or associations interested in a customized volunteer projects, please click here. For Youth Groups (groups whose members are 18 years old and under) interested in a customized volunteer project, please click here.

How do I participate in the Serve-a-thon or Celebration of Service?

The Serve-a-thon and Celebration of Service are annual Chicago Cares large volunteer events. There are many ways to be involved in both of these events - you can be a Team Captain, a member of a volunteer team, an independent volunteer, a project leader (Project Site Manager) or a roadie. We need thousands of individuals to help us fill these volunteer positions! There are different recruitment seasons for each of the roles, and the best thing to do is visit our website to see what the current needs are at any given time. These events are held in June (Serve-a-thon) and January (Celebration of Service). Volunteer recruitment begins a few months before the event so check back often to see how you can becoming involved in these inspiring days of volunteerism.

Is online orientation different from registration for events like Serve-a-thon or Celebration of Service?

Yes. Completing our short online orientation gives you access to 200 volunteer projects each month and allows you to volunteer throughout the year. Serve-a-thon and Celebration of Service are special, one-day service events and you must register for them separately.

In what different areas can I volunteer?
We plan projects in the following areas: education (adult and children's), senior services, health and wellness, hunger relief, and environmental beautification. We also offer customized volunteer programming for youth and Chicago-area corporations and associations. [more info]

What is a typical volunteer project like?
We expertly create and manage about 200 projects each month and activities vary, but they follow the same model. Most projects are during the evenings and weekends although we do offer a few daytime volunteer programs. You're always led by a volunteer leader, called a Team Coordinator, in a group of 4 or more volunteers. In addition, you will always be doing hands-on work (no fundraising or office work).

How old do I need to be to volunteer?
Chicago Cares volunteers need to be 18 years of age or older. However, some projects are very family-friendly. Look for special age symbols next to projects to determine if youth are allowed to attend the program. For more information about the Chicago Cares Youth In Service program, visit the Youth and Family section of our Web site or contact Erin Rasler at 312-780-0800 x122.

Am I required to commit a certain amount of volunteer time per month?
The vast majority of our projects allow you to volunteer in an issue area you are passionate about and when your schedule allows. We do have some committed projects and leadership opportunities for people who are ready to give more of their time. We challenge our volunteers to volunteer at least one time per month.

Can I sign up for projects online?
Yes, once you complete online orientation, you will be asked to set up a username and password. With your username and password you can login and view our calendar of upcoming projects which includes all the information you'll need to sign up. You do need to contact the Team Coordinator via e-mail or phone to sign up for the project.

What's new at Chicago Cares?
Visit our Volunteer News page to see what's new at Chicago Cares!