To become a CommonBond volunteer, print and fill out the Volunteer Application Form and mail it to:
Volunteer Services
CommonBond Communities
328 W. Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55102
We need
Volunteers for:
Youth Services | Adult
Education | Teens | Technology
Team
For more information about any of the opportunities listed, email volunteerservices@commonbond.org or phone 651-291-1750.
Youth Services
Learning Circles
Change lives by being a part of the new Learning Circles program! This fall, CommonBond will be launching an innovative new way for you to help resident children learn. Learning Circles is a youth mentoring and academic support program that connects mentors like you with up to four residents in 4th to 12th grade and an AmeriCorps member. These groups meet for 1½ hours twice a week throughout the school year, providing the youth with academic assistance and group support. Designed to be fun, challenging and life-changing, Learning Circles focus on building deep relationships in the group to support youth academic achievement. During the summer these connections continue with occasional group events and contact through email and letters. As a Learning Circles volunteer, you can make a tremendous impact on the lives of young people, not only helping them with their homework, but also becoming a role model that the kids can count on.
To become a Learning Circles volunteer, please email Jessica Solem at Jessica.Solem@commonbond.org. Volunteers must be 16 years or older, able to speak, read and write in English and have access to reliable transportation. Opportunities are available at St. Paul communities only.
Study Buddies
Study Buddies is a one-on-one academic mentoring program. Spend one to two hours a week helping a child with homework assignments, special projects, academic skills, and more. Locations are available throughout the metropolitan and surrounding area, September through May.
OVER 90% of school-age children who participated in Study Buddies raised their reading skill by one grade level.
Homework Center
Homework Center tutors team up with CommonBond staff to assist groups of students with homework assignments and strengthen academic skills. Help youth learn in a fun, productive environment and make a positive, lasting impact on their lives. Locations are available throughout the metropolitan and surrounding area, September through May.
“The Center has been really helpful in teaching me skills that will be important in the future. You don’t find this kind of help in other housing.” - Tsedenya, student.
Camp Fire
Come share the fun of being a Camp Fire kid! Camp Fire's mission is to build caring, confident youth and future leaders. Camp Fire volunteers will assist by leading small Camp Fire groups in fun activities. Volunteer opportunities are available in Minneapolis.
"I've seen a lot of kids grow up in this community. They are where they are because of the programs that are run here. They don't get in trouble because they are here at summer fun, they don't get in trouble because they are part of the girl scout program. I don't know where I would be if I didn't get the leadership and the role models." - Mai, college student and former CommonBond resident
Preschool Program
Preschool Program volunteers will assist in the preschool program by supervising children who may be preparing for Kindergarten or learning social skills. This program provides a wonderful opportunity to volunteers who enjoy working with young children. Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the metropolitan and surrounding area.
Kid Fun (Summer Only)
Kid Fun is a recreational program for youth living at CommonBond Communities.
As part of the Kid Fun Volunteer Team you will plan and lead activities
for children living in CommonBond housing. Spend three hours a week
playing games, completing craft projects, and having fun! Volunteer
opportunities are available in Edina.
Adult Education
English Language Learners
English Language volunteers will work either one-on-one or in small groups with adults who are learning English as a second language. Students' needs range from beginners who need help in basic English to advanced for those who want to fine-tune their skills. This is a great opportunity to learn more about other cultures! Volunteer opportunities are available in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
GED Instructors and Tutors for Adult Learners
GED Instructors assist residents to complete their GED in preparation for job readiness or college. Tutors for Adult Learners team with CommonBond staff and adults to assist with adult education and academic skills and support. Volunteer opportunities are available in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Citizenship Instructors
Citizenship Instructors assist residents to prepare for their citizenship
exam. Volunteers can take real pride in knowing they assisted someone
in to become a citizen. Volunteer opportunities are available in Minneapolis
and St. Paul.
Teens
Teen Scene
Teen Scene volunteers will assist with teen programs. Help teens to
learn job readiness, social skills and how live a productive life. Our
programs boost confidence, engage teens with their communities and families,
and offer a fun alternative to hanging out. Volunteer opportunities
are available throughout the metropolitan area.
Technology Team
Computer Instructors and Lab Assistants
Computer Instructors teach basic computer skills to residents. If you know Windows, Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Publisher, or other products and computer skills, this is the opportunity for you! Computer Lab Assistants provide technical support to youth and adult residents using Advantage Center computers during open computer lab hours. Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the metropolitan area.