Volunteer
Donate your time, skills, passion, and experience to the cause and become a volunteer. We're pleased that at this moment our volunteer needs are satisfied with the exception of babysitters at Raphael's Life House in Elizabeth.  If you wish to babysit, please click on the button below.  Otherwise, check back at a later date to see if our needs have changed.

Make an Impact

Volunteers who will be directly working with our youth, most positions involve a two hour shift, once a week, bi-weekly, or monthly for a three month commitment.  This timeframe provides a more stable environment for our people and optimizes our resources.

Some of our most important opportunities include:

  • Meal Services Volunteers in Atlantic City and Newark.
  • Youth Empowerment Instructors in Atlantic City and Newark. We usually need volunteers to help with job coaching and IT skills.
  • Babysitters at Raphael’s Life House in Elizabeth.

 

Volunteer FAQ’s

What is a Meal Services Volunteer?

Serve food, set up and clean tables, and most importantly, welcome our young people at lunch. (Cooking is done by our kitchen staff.)

What is a Youth Empowerment Instructor?

The Youth Empowerment instructor will assist and support our youth with a variety of tasks empowering them to reach their educational and employment goals at our Dove Learning Centers (DLC). The DLC focuses on education, employment, financial literacy, physical and mental wellness, and social navigation (life skills).

Is there an age requirement for volunteers?

We require that all onsite volunteers and guests be 23 years of age or older. If you’d like to engage your family, we hope you will consider doing an offsite drive or project to advocate for and benefit the youth of Covenant House NJ.

What is the process for becoming a volunteer?

To volunteer as an individual at Covenant House NJ, you will need to be at least 23 years old and apply using the Apply Now button above. Thereafter, you will be contacted by our Volunteer Coordinator to go through a screening process, including background checks, and on online orientation program. If you would like to participate in our Prepare and Share a Meal Program, orientation is not required.

Is there a fee for the background check?

We charge a fee of $30 for each background check. The fee can be paid by cash, check made out for Covenant House New Jersey, or by donating online.

Can I go to my local police department to order my own background check?

No. All volunteers must submit to a background check that we conduct in-house in accordance with Covenant House policies.

Can I complete court ordered community service with Covenant House?

Unfortunately, Covenant House NJ cannot approve court ordered community service.

Want to become a Volunteer?

Nabijah Shabazz
Statewide Volunteer Coordinator

NShabazz@covenanthouse.org
973-286-3400