Teen Volunteer Opportunities

Explore the full lineup of 2024/25 programs and discover how you can make a real impact!

Scroll down for details of each program and apply

Welcome to the Young Leadership Society, where high schoolers make a difference, develop leadership skills, and learn from influential leaders. 

Club members will have the opportunity to impact the lives of others through volunteer projects benefiting children with special needs, individuals facing illness, the elderly, and communities in Israel.  They will also be inspired by talks from industry leaders and powerful figures, equipping them with valuable insights and tools for success.

Join the club and become a changemaker!

👥 Volunteers: Grade 9+

📍 Chabad - 419 East 77th Street

⏰ Thursdays, 5:30 - 6:30pm 

📅 Nov 21, Dec 5, 12, Jan 16, 30, Feb 6, 27, April 3, May 1, 8, 22

This program offers you, our dedicated volunteers, a unique chance to brighten a child's day with warmth, laughter, and companionship. Each week, you and a fellow volunteer will spend quality time with a buddy in the comfort of their own surroundings, creating a personal connection. This experience enriches your buddy's life while offering you the chance to experience the joy of giving back. Pick the day and time that fits your schedule, and prepare for a deeply rewarding journey. 

👥 Volunteers: Grade 9+

⏰ Customized to your schedule

Where purpose and friendship collide! The Sunday Squad is a program where our awesome high school volunteers join up with members of all abilities for epic adventures around the city. From hitting up arcades and belting out tunes at karaoke to mastering mini golf and bouncing around at the trampoline park, every outing is a chance to make a lasting impact on everyone involved. Don’t miss out on this special opportunity - this is the squad you want to be part of!

👥 Volunteers: Grade 10+  

📍 Chabad UES, 419 East 77th Street. The group will travel via bus to the trip location unless otherwise specified. (Occasionally the group will meet at an alternate location on the Upper East Side) 

⏰ Sundays, 12:15 - 2:30pm

📅 September 22, 29, October 20, November 17, 24, December 8, 15, January 12, February 2, 9, March 2, 9, April 6, 27, May 4

Get ready for an unforgettable year with Friendship Circle's Sunday Buddy Program! This year, we're bringing the excitement to Gym Time - an amazing all-inclusive indoor gym and play center. You and your buddy will dive into thrilling gymnastics and activities together. Plus, you'll level up your leadership skills and connect with friends of all backgrounds and abilities. Your care and enthusiasm will create joyful experiences for everyone involved!

👥 Volunteers: Grade 8+

📍 Gym Time - 1520 York Ave

⏰ Sundays, 12:45 - 2:30pm 

📅 September 22, 29, October 20, November 17, 24, December 8, 15, January 12, February 2, 9, March 2, 9, April 6, 27, May 4

Attention high school leaders and volunteers! Ready to step out of your social bubble and make a real impact? Join the weekly FC Virtual Club, where you’ll lead an engaging and dynamic virtual session designed to connect young people of all abilities. This is your chance to guide others, build new skills, and have fun while hosting a lineup of activities like virtual games, music jams, dance-offs, foodie fun, and more. It's all about fostering new friendships, sharing laughs, and creating unforgettable memories - all from the comfort of your own home!

👥 Volunteers: Grades 9+

⏰ Tuesdays, 7:30 - 8:30pm

📅 September 24, October 1, 8, 22, 29 November 12, 19, 26 December 3, 10, 17 January 7, 14, 28 February 4, 11, 25 March 4, 11, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6, 13

At Friendship Circle Day Camp, kids of all abilities have their school breaks transformed into a fun-filled camp experience! Packed with daily field trips, art, music, sports, special performances and more, FC day camp is an experience like no other.

👥 Volunteers: Grade 7+

📍Chabad UES, 419 East 77th Street

Thanksgiving Day Camp: November 28, 2024

Summer Camp 2025: August 18-21, 2025

All new volunteers must complete an application process before signing up to volunteer at camp. If this is your first time volunteering at Friendship Circle UES, please click here to begin the application process.

Throughout the year Friendship Circle provides family holiday inspiration and fun! Celebrate Rosh Hashanah, Sukkot, Chanukah, Purim and more. At FC holiday programs children, siblings, parents and volunteers come together to share memorable holiday experiences that will leave a lasting impression!

The highlight of our year! Join thousands from across the NYC community in a tremendous display of pride and unity as we walk through the streets of the Upper East Side raising awareness and funds for children, teens and young adults with special needs. All funds raised benefit Friendship Circle of the Upper East Side!

👥 All Ages | Open to the Public

📍 East 77th Street between 1st & York Aves

📅 June 8, 2025