Get Involved
Volunteers are essential to the continued success of our programs. We rely on hundreds of volunteers annually to provide direct service to those we serve and behind the scenes support.
We treasure the skills our volunteers provide, and our volunteers tell us they receive as much from volunteering as they give.
Below are the many ways you can share your time and talent to support our mission.
Become a Volunteer:
Volunteer Opportunities
Support Group Facilitator:
Individuals co-lead a twice a month support group (September – May) in our Family Program. They are responsible for helping to create a caring environment in which group members share their stories, feelings, memories and discuss how to cope with challenges in their lives. Volunteer Facilitators are required to attend a 20-hour training program.
Hospitality Greeter:
Individuals pick up and serve pizza and beverages at our twice a month evening support groups. Some locations utilize door greeters as well. Most importantly, all hospitality volunteers provide a warm welcome to all those attending our grief support groups.
School Group/Special Collaboration Facilitators:
Individuals lead or co-lead time-limited support groups during the school day or during the summer with our community partners under the supervision of a Fernside staff member.
Office Support & Expressive Art Preparation:
Individuals provide administrative support in the office and can also help with the preparation of expressive arts materials used in our support groups.
Fundraising & Special Events Support:
Individuals can help with fundraising events by serving on the Fernside Classic steering committee, one of several subcommittees, soliciting donations or volunteering at an event.
Teen PIT Crew – Philanthropists in Training:
This volunteer opportunity is open to teenage volunteers. These teens serve as ambassadors for our program. They help provide extra support to facilitators in our Family Program and can also help as junior camp counselors at our Camp Program.
Therapy Dog Volunteer:
Therapy dogs and their handlers can visit support group meetings in our Family Program as well as our Camp Program. These furry friends are a special addition to our programs.
Camp Counselor:
Individuals may serve as camp counselors at our camps, which include day camps and overnight experiences.