Logo for: Horizons Greater Washington
We Believe in the Promise of Opportunity for all Children

Volunteer at HGW!

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Horizons Greater Washington. Volunteers play a vital role in supporting our students, staff, and programs—and we are deeply grateful for the time and care they bring to our community.

Why Volunteer at Horizons?

Volunteering with Horizons means joining a connected community that has supported students in the DC area for over 25 years.

Volunteers build meaningful relationships with students and staff while supporting learning experiences that spark confidence and growth. By working with students who return year after year, volunteers help strengthen both academic and social-emotional skills during a critical stage of development.

Volunteers also provide essential classroom and program support—helping teachers focus on meeting student needs and ensuring daily activities run smoothly.

In return, volunteers gain hands-on experience, develop leadership and communication skills, and become part of a joyful, mission-driven community. Many leave with a lasting sense of purpose and connection.

What Volunteers Say

Why did you choose to volunteer at Horizons? What did you enjoy most?

“I was glad to help out with the meaningful work that Horizons does. I really enjoyed getting to know the kids, who were so enthusiastic and welcoming. I also had the opportunity to practice speaking Spanish outside of school, which was very valuable.”
— Maya S.

“I loved volunteering alongside my childhood best friend while helping with snacks, lunches, and classroom activities. We built great memories with the campers and enjoyed supporting teachers with art projects and classroom setup.”
— Eve M.

Volunteer Qualifications

Volunteers must:

  • Be at least 15 years old

  • Be interested in working with students in grades K–8

  • Be enthusiastic, friendly, and culturally responsive

  • Maintain confidentiality of student and staff information

  • Have strong communication and interpersonal skills

  • Be open to giving and receiving constructive feedback

  • Complete FBI fingerprinting if volunteering in Maryland

How to Get Involved

Each year, Horizons seeks volunteers ages 15 and older to support our five-week Summer Program. Volunteers are essential to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where all students feel seen, supported, and cared for.

Summer Program Dates:

June 29 – July 31, 2026

Volunteer Commitment

  • Commit to at least two weeks

  • Available weekdays, 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

  • Attend one volunteer training day in June 2026

  • Complete harassment prevention training

 

Interested in classroom volunteering? Complete this volunteer interest form.

Interested in swim volunteering? Please complete this separate form.