Horizons for Homeless Children 425 Union Street West Springfield, MA 01089 Company Description: Horizons for Homeless Children is the Commonwealth's leading organization devoted exclusively to serving homeless children. We focus our efforts on helping young children mitigate the trauma and stress associated with homelessness. The shelter system in Massachusetts is primarily designed for adults, with staff focused on helping them reach self-sufficiency. Often there is less bandwidth to support the extensive needs of children experiencing homelessness. According to the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, frequent creative play is integral to developing executive functioning skills in young children. Our Playspace Program, started in 1990, embodies our belief that every child has the right to joyful play experiences. Salary Range: Location: Per Year , Job Type: Category: Volunteer Social Services Education Level: Work Experience: High School or Equivalent Preference: Nice to have 2+ Preference: Nice to have Skills/Certifications/Licences: Early childhood education certificates/degrees - Preference: Nice to have Description: Looking to give back or help your community grow? Volunteers are needed to play with young children living in family homeless shelters throughout Western MA. Horizons for Homeless Children is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of homeless children by providing quality play and opportunities for early education. Volunteer with homeless children at a Horizons Playspace in one of many family shelters state-wide including locations in Springfield and Holyoke. A commitment of 2 hours a week for at least 6 months (students: 1 FULL semester minimum) and formal training are required. Upcoming volunteer training: Saturday, September 16, 2017 10 AM -- 1 PM Springfield, MA YOU CAN APPLY TODAY! To find out more, view other training dates, call 413-532-0467 or apply at horizonschildren.org/palapplication/. Please join us in giving homeless children a better tomorrow. Requirements: -Must be at least 16 years old (16/17 years old must have 18+ parent/guardian train and volunteer with them) -Must have means of transportation -Must commit to 2 consecutive hours weekly same day and time to volunteer