Thank you for your interest in volunteering at The Ark, where we embrace a wide variety of roles for all ages and ability levels. Click on the opportunities below to learn more!
Café Ark brings Ark clients together for dinner and socializing. We welcome you to get to know our clients and other volunteers as you help to set up, serve and clear a restaurant-style dinner prepared by Starr Kosher Catering.
Ages: 18+
Time: Two Thursdays each month; 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: 6450 N. California Avenue, Chicago
Additional info: Job involves lifting and moving dishes, communicating positively with Ark clients, interacting with other volunteers and staff in an energetic environment. In-person training provided prior to first shift.
Bring your family or special friends of all ages to a Family Volunteer Program. Volunteers will learn about The Ark, get hands-on experience volunteering to support our clients, staff, and programs. This is a great opportunity for an intergenerational activity.
Ages: Any
Time: One Sunday each month; 90 minutes – times vary
Location: 6450 N. California Ave., Chicago
Additional info: Tasks can be done seated or standing and moving; adaptable for most physical and intellectual abilities and styles in an energetic environment.
Provide a warm and welcoming presence for all who visit The Ark. Role includes greeting visitors and providing assistance with navigation throughout the building.
Ages: Adults 18+
Time: 2-3 hour shifts available – times vary
Location: The Ark, 6450 N. California Avenue,Chicago.
Additional info: In-person training provided prior to first shift.
Help sort and organize donations for our pantry warehouse, and work on other projects that support Ark programs as needed. This opportunity is a great way to get involved, meet other volunteers, and learn more about The Ark while making a difference in our local Jewish community.
Ages: Adults 18+
Time: Two Wednesdays each month; 10:30 a.m. – noon
Location: 6450 N. California Ave., Chicago
Additional info: A typical shift allows for seated or standing work, the option to lift and help move supplies.
Support our Outreach Initiatives by going to camps, schools and other youth-serving organizations to facilitate an interactive educational session. Training, curriculum and materials will be provided for all educators. Work with children and youth in a variety of settings.
Time Commitment: 1-2 hour shifts, scheduled as-needed
Location: Off-site
Be part of our Grocery Shopper program. By shopping for homebound clients, or those without access to transportation, you will provide support by shopping for clients, and delivering groceries directly to their door. Volunteers must be able to lift and deliver packages up to 25 lbs. and climb stairs, as needed. Requires ability to call clients, shop for, deliver and carry groceries, may require climbing stairs for delivery.
Time Commitment: 2 hours
Location: Off-site
We welcome those who are willing to share their time and talent with our clients, as a way to increase the capacity of programming and services that we offer.
If you’d like to get involved, but need more flexibility with your volunteer schedule, consider becoming an On-Call Volunteer. We’ll reach out if we need help with short notice, and you’ll have the opportunity to volunteer with many different programs if you are available.
