Needs From: Serve Illinois

Youth Resource Guide Scout: A YRS volunteer will ensure that Alternatives youth and families have access to the most current information. Responsibilities include auditing and updating our community resource directory, which includes verifying the hours of local food pantries, identifying new after-school programs, and testing each of the phone numbers listed. This volunteer will help bridge the information gap for Chicago’s youth, providing a reliable foundation that our staff uses every day to make accurate referrals.

Space Research and Vetting Volunteer will identify spaces that align with both mission and budget of Alternatives. This remote-friendly, skills-based opportunity involves scouting a diverse range of locations, from industrial lofts in the West Loop to community centers on the South Side, and evaluating them based on key criteria such as accessibility (ADA compliance), catering flexibility, and AV capabilities. By maintaining a database of vetted vendors and negotiating nonprofit rates, you will directly enable the organization to maximize its donor impact and create professional, inclusive environments for its supporters

Alternatives' Research Volunteer will research a particular geographic area where Alternatives services are provided for general demographics information, partner organizations, and general community areas to find out strengths/gaps of each particular geographic area.

The Digital Archive & Transcription Aide helps our organization preserve its history and improve accessibility by organizing our "digital library." Categorized tasks such as adding descriptive tags to our photo archives, sorting digital flyers by year, and proofreading auto-generated captions for our youth-led video content. This role is essential for ensuring Alternatives’ materials are searchable for future grants and accessible to individuals with hearing impairments. 

Digital Engagement Volunteer: The Digital Engagement volunteers play a vital role in boosting our nonprofit’s online presence and strengthening our ties with the Chicago community. Volunteers will act as a digital ambassador by monitoring relevant social media hashtags, "liking" posts from our community partners, and leaving supportive comments on local youth-focused events. By maintaining this consistent, positive digital pulse, volunteers will increase the reach of Alternatives’ mission and ensure that our partner organizations feel seen and supported.