Application Forms & Information

For over a century, volunteers have been an integral part of the meaningful care JBFCS provides. Our volunteers’ outstanding contributions have greatly enhanced the effectiveness of the mental health and social services we offer. Please join us!

To apply:

1. Download Volunteer Form*: Application PDF (or Word format)
   Teen Volunteer Form (applicants under 18): Teen Application PDF (or Word format)
   * Certain volunteer opportunities also require an NYS SCR Form
   Problems downloading? You can also request a form by mail.
2. Print, Complete, and Sign the forms.
3. Mail the form back to us at:
   
   JBFCS-Volunteer Division
   120 W 57th St, 2nd Fl
   New York, NY 10019-3320
   
   Or - Fax to: (212) 632-4795
   Or - Scan & Email to: volunteer@jbfcs.org

• Once we receive your completed forms we will begin to process your application.
• We will send reference forms to the personal references you provide on your application.
• We will then contact you to schedule an in-person interview at our office in Manhattan (or Westchester) to explore placement opportunities which best meet your interests and availability.

General FAQ

Who can volunteer?

Everyone is welcome! Our volunteers come from diverse cultures, faiths, races and economic backgrounds — and range in age from teens to seniors. Our programs serve all New Yorkers, and we encourage a diverse group of volunteers to best support our mission.

Do I have to be in New York?

Our volunteer opportunities are located in New York City and Westchester. You may apply from outside of New York, assuming you will reside here during the period you plan to volunteer. Telephone-based volunteer opportunities are not limited to area residents. JBFCS does not arrange or provide accommodations, transportation, or assistance with international visas for people traveling from outside the area.

What types of volunteer opportunities are available?

There are various volunteer opportunities available covering a range of interests and time commitments. Some volunteers work at JBFCS facilities, while others travel into the community. We offer individual and group opportunities. Relationship-based volunteering programs include mentoring/tutoring youth and Big Brother/Big Sister assignments as well as visiting people in the community lacking full social support. Telephone-based opportunities include the CheeRing telephone outreach program. There are also opportunities for undergraduate internships, groups, teens, clerical/office assistance, monthly, seasonal and one-time assignments throughout the five boroughs and Westchester.

Do you have Student Internships?

JBFCS has two types of internships. There are various part-time, unpaid volunteer internship opportunities suitable for undergraduate college students. (please apply two months in advance). Additionally, JBFCS Professional Training programs offer a number of formal internships/externships and fellowships for graduate students, postgrads and doctoral candidates.

What skills are required of a volunteer?

There is no specific skill required beyond your commitment to helping others. During the application interview you will meet with a volunteer coordinator and together determine the most suitable assignment based on your interests, skills and availability and our current program needs. We seek enthusiastic, caring and dedicated volunteers and work to best match each volunteer’s life skills with a meaningful and rewarding opportunity.

How can I learn more about the programs before choosing to volunteer? How do I choose the best program?

Come to one of our periodic Volunteering Open Houses, when you can learn more, meet current volunteers, and ask questions. If you choose to apply, you will meet in-person with a volunteer coordinator to identify the most meaningful opportunities. The best way to learn more is to contact us to discuss your interests.

Can I volunteer for more than one?

Yes, you can volunteer with more than one program at a time.

Is there a minimum time commitment required? What if I'm only available on certain days, or for a limited period?

Some programs do have a suggested time commitment, while others are more flexible. We have a wide variety of assignment schedules available — on weekdays, weekends, in person, or by telephone, seasonal, short-term, one-time, and so on. We'll work to match the assignment with your availability.

Application FAQ

Can I get the application form by mail?

You can download the application form online to expedite the process and save postage costs. You may also request a printed application package from (212) 632-4687 or volunteer@jbfcs.org and we will mail it to any U.S. address (sorry, no international addresses). Be sure to provide your complete mailing address, and specify if the applicant is under 18 years old.

Will you contact my personal references?

Yes. Most of our volunteer programs require you to provide at least two references from persons to whom you are not related (BB/BS programs require three references). We must have references in writing. The reference forms will be mailed or emailed, so be sure to give us accurate contact information.

What's the difference for teenage volunteers?

Many teenagers find special satisfaction being involved in our supervised volunteer activities geared towards youth participants. Volunteer applicants who are in middle school or high school should complete the teen application package (college students and those age 18 and over should use the regular application).

What background checks are required?

Adults whose volunteer assignment will involve working with children under eighteen will be asked to complete a Statewide Central Register (SCR) form (see below). Additionally, some programs require volunteers to be fingerprinted or complete a further background check.

How long does the application process take?

The processing time varies depending on many factors. However, you can help by submitting accurate and completed paperwork and by asking your personal references to respond to us in a timely manner. Once we have received all the required paperwork and a reply from one of your references, a volunteer coordinator will contact you to arrange an in-person interview. All paperwork and background checks must be completed before you may volunteer.

Who should I contact with questions regarding my application?

For any questions regarding the application process or status, contact Volunteer Services at (212) 632-4687 or volunteer@jbfcs.org

NY Statewide Central Register (SCR) FAQ

• Download: NY State SCR Database Check Form (LDSS-3370 - Rev 04/2009)
• Instructions for completing the SCR Form

What is the Statewide Central Register Database Check (SCR)?

If your volunteer assignment would put you in contact with children under eighteen years of age, you must first complete a SCR Database Check form (LDSS-3370). These forms are required by NY State Office of Children & Family Services in order to screen applicants against historical databases. This screening process will take time, so please complete the forms as thoroughly as possible.

Who is required to submit the SCR form?

Assignments involving children (under 18) must be cleared by the SCR in advance, including volunteers for:
* Big Brother Big Sister Programs
* G-Men (Genesis Program male volunteers)
* Life Skills Mentors
* Tutors (Study-Buddy Program)
* Undergraduate Internships

The SCR form asks for my complete address history for the past 28 years. What if I don’t remember every exact address or date?

If you don’t remember all the addresses and/or dates where you’ve lived during the past twenty-eight years, provide as much information as you can, and we’ll ask you to complete an additional form attesting that you have filled out the SCRC to the best of your ability.

How should I fill out the SCRC if I’ve lived abroad?

If you’ve lived abroad, please make sure to list on the form the country and dates of your residency outside of the United States.