You Can Make a Difference

We know that we are stronger together. Disabilities touch us all, and we work with all members of the community to make a profound, positive impact on people’s lives every day.

A boy sits in a wheellchair looks out a window as a man points to it
Four volunteers in Lincoln Financial T-shirts pose by landscaping
Three girls paint a picnic table

Volunteer Opportunities

Looking to make a positive impact in Northeast Indiana? Volunteering with Easterseals Northeast Indiana is a rewarding way to share your skills, time, and passion to support individuals with disabilities. We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities designed to fit your interests, schedule, and expertise. By joining our team, you help create meaningful experiences, foster independence, and strengthen our community.

 

Current Volunteer Opportunity:

 

Locations: Fort Wayne, Angola, and Columbia City

 

Share Your Passion. Build Connections. Make a Difference.

 

Do you have a skill, hobby, or passion you would love to share with others? We are looking for dedicated Volunteer Enrichment Leaders to lead meaningful enrichment classes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

 

As a Volunteer Enrichment Leader, you will create a welcoming and inclusive environment where participants can:

  • Explore their interests
  • Build confidence
  • Develop new skills
  • Build friendships and meaningful connections
  • Engage more fully in their community

No professional teaching experience is required—just patience, creativity, reliability, and a passion for helping others thrive.

 

Open Volunteer Opportunities

 

We are currently seeking volunteers for the following enrichment programs:

  • Reading & Language Arts Enrichment Leader – Inspire a love of reading, storytelling, and communication through engaging literacy activities and discussions.
  • Music Enrichment Leader – Share the joy of music through singing, instruments, rhythm activities, or music appreciation.
  • Art Enrichment Leader – Encourage creativity and self-expression through painting, drawing, crafts, and other artistic projects.
  • Theater Enrichment Leader – Help participants build confidence and communication skills through acting, improvisation, and performance activities.
  • Cooking Enrichment Leader – Teach basic cooking skills, kitchen safety, and simple recipes while promoting independence and healthy choices.
  • Wellness Enrichment Leader – Lead activities that promote physical health, mindfulness, movement, and overall well-being.
  • Karate Enrichment Leader – Introduce participants to martial arts fundamentals while encouraging discipline, confidence, focus, and physical fitness.

Preferred Commitment

 

8 hours per week at your local site.

 

Consistent weekly availability is requested to help participants build routines, develop skills, and create lasting relationships.

 

What Makes a Great Volunteer Enrichment Leader?

 

We are looking for volunteers who:

  • Can commit to a consistent weekly schedule (8 hours per week preferred)
  • Enjoy sharing their talents, hobbies, or skills with others
  • Are patient, dependable, and encouraging
  • Create an inclusive environment where everyone can participate
  • Support individuals of all abilities as they learn and grow
  • Want to make a meaningful impact in their community

Additional Volunteer Opportunities

Career Connections

Volunteer to talk about your career path and daily responsibilities to help our consumers explore employment options. By offering job-shadowing insights, resume tips, or mock interviews, you can empower individuals with disabilities to identify strengths, set goals, and prepare for meaningful work opportunities.

 

Group Projects

Form a team or bring your organization to join us for group volunteer projects such as painting, landscaping, or facility improvements. These hands-on activities not only enhance our campuses but also build camaraderie and a sense of accomplishment among volunteers and participants alike.

 

Special Events

From fundraising walks to community fairs, special events are a great way to lend your support for just a few hours. One standout event is Dancing with the Arc Stars, our annual dance competition that brings together individuals with disabilities and community partners. Volunteers help make this event memorable and successful.

 

Check our events calendar regularly for dates, times, and volunteer registration details. Your participation at these events raises awareness, promotes community engagement, and generates crucial funding for our programs.

 

Interested in Volunteering?

If you’re passionate about making a difference and would like to learn more about our volunteer opportunities, please contact:

 

Kaitlyn Shidler
Vice President of Development

kaitlyn.shidler@eastersealsnei.org

Office: 260-456-4534 ext. 2461

 

Please note that some volunteer opportunities may require background checks to ensure the safety and well-being of the individuals we serve.

 

Join Easterseals Northeast Indiana today and help us build a more welcoming, empowered community—one volunteer at a time!